Del Prado Playfield in Dos Vientos Section of Newbury Park

The newest park in the Conejo Valley as of January 2013 is the Del Prado Playfield, located on Calle del Prado between Via Rio and Via Las Brisas in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park. This is 26 acre park has a nice variety of things to do, including a unique playground area, 3 lighted softball fields with plenty of soccer space, basketball court, tennis court, two pickleball courts, plenty of walkways, restroom and over 100 parking spots! Visit www.crpd.org/parks-reservations/parks for more information.

Zoos Within Range of Ventura County

Ventura County is just quick drive to the Santa Barbara Zoo and Los Angeles Zoo, while for those looking for a quick wild animal fix, the America's Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College fills the bill.  CLICK HERE for more about these three zoo alternatives.

Skate Plaza at Berylwood Park in Simi Valley

The Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District opened the Skate Plaza at Berylwood Park on Wednesday, August 12th, 2020.

Construction of the Skate Plaza began in February 2020 and was completed in early August. The 5,200 square foot Skate Plaza is constructed from pre-cast and case-in-place components and features ramps, low walls, benches, curbs, slide rails, jumps and quarter pipes. Additional park features include a new picnic structure, park benches, walkways, fencing and security lights.

The Skate Plaza was designed with all ages and skill levels in mind. Younger beginning skaters can learn and hone their skills, while advanced skaters can utilize the Skate Plazas more challenging features.

The Plaza is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

The Skate Plaza is located at 1955 Bridget Avenue in Simi Valley.

For more information, contact the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District at 805-584-4400 or visit www.rsrpd.org.

Photo courtesy Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District.

California ScienCenter - Exposition Park

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Mini Golf at Umami Burger Thousand Oaks

UPDATE: Umami Burger closed its doors in January 2020.

Umami Burger at The Lakes at Thousand Oaks opened its doors on May 3, 2012. Previously Umami was Nate N Al Deli, which closed its doors on January 4, 2012. Before that, Sushi Ko resided in the spot from 2005 to August 2009. Yes, sushi, deli and gourmet burgers all in this spot at The Lakes...but one thing that hasn't changed is the little mini-golf area outside of the restaurant! Yeah!!

We stopped by to sample the gourmet Umami burgers (they were pricey but really good) and while awaiting the food, my 6 year old and I entertained ourselves on the green. They have plenty of clubs and mini wiffle balls on hand in the restaurant.

Something to consider when you're out dining with kids who can't sit still...