Thrifty Fun in Thousand Oaks: A Day Guide

Experience the beauty of Thousand Oaks without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

With its abundant natural beauty and outdoor activities, Thousand Oaks offers plenty of free or inexpensive ways to enjoy the region without breaking the bank. Spend your days hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area or enjoying a picnic at the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden. Cheap accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels make it easy to stay within your budget.

Day trip plan

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Day

A Day in Thousand Oaks

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Original Pancake House, a local favorite.
  • Head over to the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden for a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery and beautiful flowers.
  • Visit the Thousand Oaks Farmers Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Don't forget to grab a bite to eat from the food trucks stationed there.
  • Take a hike through the Conejo Valley Trail System, which offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Cool off with a refreshing treat at Paradis Ice Cream, known for their delicious and unique flavors.
  • End your day with a dinner at In-N-Out Burger, a California staple that never disappoints.
  • Thousand Oaks may be a small town, but there's plenty to see and do, even on a limited budget. Enjoy the outdoors, support local businesses, and indulge in some classic California cuisine.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Thousand Oaks by plane is to fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and then take a taxi or rental car to Thousand Oaks.

Car

The best way to get to Thousand Oaks by car is to take the US-101 freeway. If coming from Los Angeles, head north on US-101 until you reach Thousand Oaks.

Train

There is no direct train service to Thousand Oaks. The closest train station is Simi Valley Station in Simi Valley, but it requires further transportation to reach Thousand Oaks.

Boat

As Thousand Oaks is a landlocked city, there is no way to reach it by boat.

Bus

To get to Thousand Oaks by bus, you can take a Greyhound bus to the Thousand Oaks Transit Center, which is the central bus station in Thousand Oaks.

More travel plans

3 Adventurous Days in Thousand Oaks, California

Thousand Oaks, located in southern California, is a great destination for budget travelers. With free outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains or visiting the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden, you can enjoy the area's natural beauty without breaking the bank. Restaurants like In-N-Out Burger and Brent's Delicatessen offer cheap, delicious eats for those on a limited budget.

Thousand Oaks: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Fun Guide

Thousand Oaks, located in California's Ventura County, is an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip. Explore the picturesque Conejo Valley Botanic Garden, where you can wander through beautiful landscapes and enjoy various activities suitable for all ages. Visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum to learn about the 40th President of the United States while engaging in interactive exhibits that cater to the interests of the whole family.

Romantic 5-Day Getaway to Thousand Oaks

Thousand Oaks is a charming city with beautiful natural surroundings, nestled in the Conejo Valley in California. Couples can enjoy a serene romantic getaway while exploring hiking trails and stunning gardens like the Conejo Valley Botanical Garden. Savor local cuisine at fine dining restaurants and attend performances at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza.

Thrifty Fun in Thousand Oaks: A Day Guide

With its abundant natural beauty and outdoor activities, Thousand Oaks offers plenty of free or inexpensive ways to enjoy the region without breaking the bank. Spend your days hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area or enjoying a picnic at the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden. Cheap accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels make it easy to stay within your budget.