Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Camarillo, California and Fullerton, California
Imagine driving from Camarillo to Fullerton and experiencing more than just the journey. Explore the road less traveled and discover new places to visit on this scenic drive. This trip takes approximately 2 hours, and the midpoint of the trip is West Hollywood, California. From the fresh produce markets to the unique museums, this drive offers many unexpected stops to break up the monotony of the journey.
West Hollywood, CA
West Hollywood is a charming city located in the heart of Los Angeles County, also known as WeHo. This city is the midpoint of the journey and offers a perfect opportunity to refuel for the rest of the trip. The city is vibrant, and you can't miss the Sunset Strip, a bustling street made famous for its rock and roll hotspots, clubs, and restaurants. A don't-miss in West Hollywood is the Pacific Design Center. This colossal showroom is a mecca for interior designers and architects, showing off the latest in design and home decor trends.
Food stop: The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker
The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (BBCM) offers contemporary cuisine with homemade pastries, coffee, and tea. This cozy restaurant is perfect for a midday break or quick snack.
Skirball Cultural Center
Located in the Sepulveda Pass is the famous Skirball Cultural Center. The focus of the center is to explore the Jewish culture, arts, and music. The facilities include a performing arts center, museum, and research library. The exhibitions feature the history and evolution of the Jewish community. Skirball is a culturally immersive experience that's perfect for a stop on your journey.
Food stop: Zeidler’s Cafe
Zeidler’s Cafe at the Skirball is a kosher café that offers everything from baked goods and coffee to heartier meals like sandwiches and salads. They have great vegetarian options and the lamb meatballs are excellent!
Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park is a must-visit destination on this scenic journey. It's the perfect place to appreciate the California coastline with a peek into the life of Hollywood celebrities. This park covers more than 1.5 miles of coastline and offers an opportunity to fish, explore tide pools, and have picnics. There is also a campground to stay overnight and enjoy the scenery.
Food stop: Neptunes Net Seafood
Neptunes Net Seafood is a casual and inexpensive seafood joint that offers everything from raw oysters to fish and chips. Their outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze while catching some sun.
Ojai Olive Oil Company
The Ojai Olive Oil Company is a true hidden gem in the valley. The company operates on a small scale but produces some of the best olive oil in the area. Visitors can participate in a tasting of their different oils and balsamic vinegars. Before leaving, visitors can purchase their favorite bottle from the gift shop, making it a perfect souvenir from the trip.
Food stop: Osteria Monte Grappa
Osteria Monte Grappa is an affordable restaurant that offers Italian cuisine inspired by the Veneto region. The pasta is made in-house, and the staff is exceptionally friendly.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum
The last stop on this scenic drive is the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. The museum itself is a remarkable building featuring guided tours, exhibits, and multimedia installations. There is also a replica of Reagan's Oval Office, which visitors can enter. The surrounding grounds have a views of the Simi Valley and offer a chance to walk in the footsteps of the 40th President of the United States.
Food stop: Reagan's Country Cafe
Reagan's Country Cafe at the Presidential Library is a casual eatery that offers sandwiches, burgers, and salads. If you are looking for a scenic lunch spot, this is the perfect place to grab a bite.
Conclusion
The scenic journey from Camarillo to Fullerton offers many unexpected stops and hidden destinations. From museums to seafood joints, it's a trip that covers all tastes and interests. The trip is short but packed with memorable moments with a variety of stops that will leave visitors planning their return. With these five stops and tasty food options, your next road trip from Camarillo to Fullerton is sure to be an adventure!