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Museum of Ventura County

4.5
·228 reviews·Ventura, United States

Discover Ventura's rich history and vibrant art scene at this celebrated regional museum, featuring diverse exhibits and educational programs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Sunday of the month

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
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Closeup of Queen Marie Antoinette wearing the Regent Diamond in her hair

Museum of Ventura County

Best Time

First Sunday of the month

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Ventura's rich history and vibrant art scene at this celebrated regional museum, featuring diverse exhibits and educational programs.

4.5
(228 reviews)

"A legit hidden gem in downtown Ventura, perfect for a cultural outing and family fun!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission Days

Check for free admission days, often the first Sunday of the month!

🖼️ Explore Rotating Exhibits

See what's new! Exhibits change, so check their schedule for current displays.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Curse of the Vampire Exhibit

Curse of the Vampire Exhibit

Main Gallery

A unique blend of historical figures and comic-style art, bringing vampire legends to life.

Filipino American Fiesta

Filipino American Fiesta

Outdoor Space/Galleries

Celebrate vibrant Filipino culture with art, performances, and community engagement.

Local Art and History

Local Art and History

Various Galleries

Discover the rich heritage and artistic talent of Ventura County through diverse displays.

Interactive Children's Area

Interactive Children's Area

Outdoor Space

Hands-on activities and engaging displays that delight younger visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Check for Free Admission Days

The Museum of Ventura County occasionally offers free admission, especially on the first Sunday of the month. Keep an eye on their schedule to save on your visit and make your trip more budget-friendly. Reddit

Explore Rotating Exhibits

This museum frequently updates its exhibits, showcasing local culture, art, and history. Check their website before your visit to see what's currently on display, like the popular 'Curse of the Vampire' or Filipino American Fiesta events. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
First Sunday of the month
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique cultural experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We are so grateful to all of you who came to the Museum of Ventura County today to celebrate Filipino American Fiesta. Thank you to all of our community partners especially @pinaysphere_org for co-organizing an incredible event! #museumofventuracounty #filipinoheritagemonth #venturacountyculture #mvc #venturacounty
museumofventuracounty
45 likes • 1.1K views

🎯 Free Admission Days

Check for free admission days, often the first Sunday of the month! Reddit

🖼️ Explore Rotating Exhibits

See what's new! Exhibits change, so check their schedule for current displays. Instagram

Come see our Dance Art show So exited to perform again with @venturacountyballet ❤️ 📍Museum of Ventura county April 14th, 2pm #ballet #artshow #dancers
chudinova
131 likes • 1.9K views
The @museumofventuracounty is a legit hidden gem in @downtownventura 😍 The girls and I checked out their current exhibit, Curse of the Vampire: Tales from the Book of Nosferatu 👻 It features historical figures by George Stewart and amazing comic book style art by Paula Pugh and Weshoyot Alvitre 🎨 It's a perfect way to enjoy the spooky season in @visitventura 🏖 The exhibit will be there through No...
alongcomesmary26
0 likes • 1.2K views

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Great for families with hands-on activities and engaging displays. Reddit

📍 Downtown Ventura Gem

A hidden gem in downtown Ventura, perfect for a cultural outing. Instagram

This past weekend my daughter and I visited the @museumofventuracounty to step into the shadows of The Curse of The Vampire: Tales from The Book of Nosferatu. The exhibit features George Stuart Historical Figures® paired with bold retro comic-style illustrations by artists Paula Pugh & Weshoyot Alvitre. History meets horror. Legend comes alive. It was the perfect way to kick off spooky season. M...
socalmombie
237 likes • 10.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission Days

Check for free admission days, often the first Sunday of the month! Reddit

🖼️ Explore Rotating Exhibits

See what's new! Exhibits change, so check their schedule for current displays. Instagram

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Great for families with hands-on activities and engaging displays. Reddit

📍 Downtown Ventura Gem

A hidden gem in downtown Ventura, perfect for a cultural outing. Instagram

🎭 Special Event Attendance

Don't miss cultural festivals like Filipino American Fiesta! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(228 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Museum of Ventura County for its engaging exhibits, support of local culture and artists, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many highlight the value, especially during free admission days, and appreciate the unique blend of history and art. Occasional closures for new setups and the nature of some doll exhibits being 'a little scary' were noted as minor drawbacks.

"We enjoyed our time here, Dracula doll exhibit was impressive and so entertaining, I had fun reading story and walking through with my family. Kids enjoyed outdoor space and all the hands on activities. Enjoyed learning some of Ventura’s history through photography. Kids free, military 50% discount. Would recommend and will come back in the future :)"

I W

"We happened open the museum on the first Sunday of May and the admission was free. What a bonus! There were 3 installations and all 3 were superbly curated. Though small, all of the exhibits were thoughtful and filled with such wonderfully talented artists. Though admission was free, I would have paid a $20 entrance fee and left more than satisfied with the experience. (we were happy to donate)"

Daniel Glidden

"Interesting museum. Loved the support of local culture and artists. Definitely a fun place to take your kids."

Leon Pinheiro

What People Like

Engaging exhibits
Support of local artists
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Gallery closures
Some dolls scary

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of Ventura County is located in downtown Ventura, easily accessible by car. Parking is generally available nearby. Many visitors enjoy walking through the historic 200 block of Downtown Ventura to reach the museum. Instagram

Yes, street parking is typically available in the downtown area. Some visitors mention that it's free, making it convenient for a visit. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is situated in the historic 200 block of Downtown Ventura, making it a pleasant walk from other local attractions. Instagram

Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Museum of Ventura County website before your visit. They often have specific hours for weekdays and weekends. TikTok

While specific public transport routes can change, downtown Ventura is generally served by local bus lines. Checking the Ventura County Transportation Commission website for current routes is recommended.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary. However, the museum is known to offer free admission on certain days, such as the first Sunday of the month. Military personnel may also receive discounts. Reddit

Yes, discounts are often available. Visitors have mentioned military discounts and free admission days, making it an affordable cultural experience. Reddit

It's always a good idea to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on ticket purchasing options, including whether online booking is available.

Occasionally, main galleries might be closed for new exhibition setups. While this can be disappointing, you may still be able to visit other exhibitions like Native American or doll collections. Reddit

Many museums offer membership programs that provide benefits like free admission throughout the year and discounts. Inquire at the museum or check their website for details.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features a diverse range of exhibits, including local history, cultural displays like the Filipino American Fiesta, and art exhibitions. They also host unique shows like the 'Curse of the Vampire' which blends historical figures with comic art. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it's highly recommended for families! Kids often enjoy the outdoor space with hands-on activities and the engaging nature of the exhibits. Reddit

This exhibit is a fascinating combination of George Stuart Historical Figures® and retro comic-style illustrations by Paula Pugh and Weshoyot Alvitre, offering a unique take on vampire lore. Instagram+1

Yes, the museum often features an outdoor space that can include gardens with murals and areas for hands-on activities, which is particularly enjoyable for children. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check for any signage or ask museum staff about their photo policy to ensure you can capture your memories.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have an on-site cafe. However, being located in downtown Ventura, there are numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance for visitors to enjoy.

Yes, downtown Ventura offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.

Generally, museums do not allow outside food and drinks inside the galleries. You might be able to consume food in designated outdoor areas if available, but it's best to confirm with the museum.

Downtown Ventura has a diverse culinary scene, including American, Mexican, Italian, and seafood restaurants, as well as cafes and bakeries.

While not directly at the museum, there are parks and public spaces in Ventura where you could potentially enjoy a picnic before or after your visit.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can differ for each exhibition. Always look for signage or ask museum staff for clarification on whether you can take photos, especially without flash. Reddit

The 'Curse of the Vampire' exhibit, with its unique art and historical figures, offers visually striking opportunities. Cultural events like the Filipino American Fiesta also provide vibrant photo moments. TikTokInstagram

The museum's location in historic downtown Ventura, with its murals and architecture, provides a charming backdrop for photos before or after your visit. Instagram

Typically, professional equipment like tripods or large lighting setups are not permitted without prior arrangement or special permission from the museum. Personal use of phones and small cameras is usually allowed, subject to flash restrictions.

Explore different perspectives! For the 'Curse of the Vampire' exhibit, try capturing the detail in the artwork and figures. For cultural events, focus on the energy and people. Don't forget the murals in the outdoor areas. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of Ventura County is a great choice for families looking for an engaging and educational outing. The museum offers hands-on activities in its outdoor spaces that children love, making learning an interactive experience. Reddit Exhibits are often designed to be captivating for younger visitors, ensuring they stay entertained and learn about local history and art. Reddit

Consider visiting on a free admission day if available to make your family trip even more budget-friendly. The blend of historical insights and artistic displays provides something for everyone, making it a well-rounded family adventure. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Museum of Ventura County offers excellent value. Keep an eye out for free admission days, which are often held on the first Sunday of the month, significantly reducing the cost of your visit. Reddit Even when admission isn't free, the museum is known for its affordable ticket prices and the high quality of its curated exhibits. Reddit

Many visitors find the experience so enriching that they are happy to make a donation to support the museum's work, even on free admission days. This makes it a perfect option for those looking to experience local culture without breaking the bank.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find much to appreciate at the Museum of Ventura County, which consistently showcases diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions by local and regional artists. The museum is known for its innovative approach, often blending different artistic styles and historical elements, such as in the unique 'Curse of the Vampire' exhibit. Instagram+1

Beyond temporary shows, the museum provides a platform for emerging and established artists to share their work with the community. It's an excellent place to discover new talent and engage with the vibrant art scene of Ventura County.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Ventura's Rich History

The Museum of Ventura County serves as a vital hub for understanding the region's past. It delves into the stories of the Chumash people, the Spanish mission era, and the development of Ventura as a significant agricultural and cultural center. Exhibits often feature historical photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts that bring the county's heritage to life. Instagram

Visitors can expect to learn about the diverse influences that have shaped Ventura, from early settlers to the waves of immigration that have contributed to its unique cultural tapestry. The museum's commitment to showcasing local history makes it an essential stop for anyone wanting to connect with the soul of Ventura County. Reddit

Community Insight: Many locals express a desire to learn more about their hometown, highlighting the museum's role in fostering a deeper connection to place. Reddit

A Showcase for Local and Regional Art

Beyond history, the Museum of Ventura County is a champion for the arts, regularly featuring exhibitions by talented local and regional artists. These displays span a variety of mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media, offering a vibrant snapshot of the contemporary art scene. Instagram

The museum is particularly noted for its innovative collaborations, such as the 'Curse of the Vampire' exhibit, which paired historical figures with modern comic-style illustrations. This approach demonstrates a commitment to engaging audiences with art in fresh and unexpected ways. Instagram

Creator Spotlight: Instagram reels often highlight the striking visual elements of these art exhibits, encouraging followers to experience the creativity firsthand. Instagram+1

Engaging Families and Young Learners

The Museum of Ventura County is a fantastic destination for families. It goes beyond passive viewing by offering interactive elements and hands-on activities, particularly in its outdoor spaces. These features are designed to make learning fun and accessible for children of all ages. Reddit

Exhibits are often curated with younger audiences in mind, ensuring that the content is not only educational but also captivating. The museum's dedication to providing a stimulating environment for kids makes it a popular choice for family outings in Ventura. Reddit

Parent Tip: Many parents appreciate the museum's ability to keep their children entertained and educated simultaneously, making it a worthwhile visit for the whole family. Reddit

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