What to Do in Thousand Oaks This Summer

Hit the Trails Before the Heat Sets In

Summer mornings in Thousand Oaks are made for the trails, and the local network of open spaces does not disappoint. The MRCA Open Space offers a sprawling network of protected preserves that connect you to the region’s sweeping landscapes and native wildlife. If you want panoramic views of the valley without committing to a grueling trek, Glider Hill Open Space is a personal favorite. The trails wind through fragrant coastal sage scrub and iconic oak woodlands, rewarding you with clear sightlines all the way to the Santa Monica Mountains. For a different vibe, I highly recommend heading north to Lang Ranch Open Space. The chaparral-covered hillsides here hold the morning shade beautifully, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful, warm-weather hike. Just be sure to wrap up your trek by 9 AM—once that summer sun climbs high, the exposed trails become relentless.

MRCA Open Space — Park at the main trailhead off Lynn Road for the most direct access to the network's connecting paths.

Tip: Always pack at least a liter of water per person, even for short morning hikes. The dry valley heat can sneak up on you quickly.

Cool Down With Authentic Italian Ices

After working up a sweat on the trails, you deserve a proper summer treat. Skip the standard ice cream chain and head straight to Leone's Italian Ices on East Thousand Oaks Boulevard. This family-run gem serves up authentic, water-based Italian ices that are incredibly refreshing on a scorching July afternoon. Because they are dairy-free, they have a light, clean finish that doesn't weigh you down in the heat. They offer a rotating selection of classic and creative flavors, so every visit feels like a new discovery. My go-to is always the tart lemon or the seasonal watermelon. Grab a cup, find some shade in their parking lot, and let the afternoon slow down for a minute.

The Italian Ice King of California: Leone's Italian Ices — Check their social media before visiting to see what seasonal specialty flavors have just hit the menu.

Let Your Pups Play at Conejo Creek Dog Park

If you have a four-legged companion enjoying the Conejo Valley summer with you, an afternoon visit to the Conejo Creek Dog Park is an absolute must. Conveniently located within Conejo Creek Park South, this fully fenced facility is operated by the Conejo Recreation & Park District and is thoughtfully divided into separate areas for large and small dogs. What makes this park so great in the summer is the attention to comfort: they have reliable water stations and ample shaded seating for owners. I love swinging by in the late afternoon once the temperature starts to drop. It’s a wonderful way to let your dog burn off energy while mingling with the friendly local community of dog lovers.

Conejo Creek Dog Park — Bring your own portable water bowl for easier hydrating for your pup between play sessions.

Tip: The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, but the golden hour just before sunset provides the most comfortable playtime temperatures.

Unwind Over Evening Wines

As the evening finally cools off, Thousand Oaks offers a couple of fantastic ways to kick back and relax. For a sophisticated, adults-only evening, Club 14 on Thousand Oaks Boulevard is a lovely wine bar with a remarkably relaxed atmosphere. Opening its doors daily at 4:00 PM, it is the perfect pitstop after a long Tuesday or a slow Saturday alike. The curated wine selection is fantastic, and the vibe is intimate without feeling stuffy. If you prefer something a bit more lively and family-friendly, head over to North Oaks Market & Liquor on East Avenida de Los Arboles. This neighborhood mainstay carries a surprisingly robust selection of craft beers, fine wines, and spirits. Grab something special to take back to your patio, or chat with the knowledgeable staff for a recommendation on a crisp summer rosé.

Club 14 — For current wine offerings and special tasting events, give their Instagram page a quick look before you head over.

North Oaks Market & Liquor — Stop by during the late afternoon to browse their premium, chilled wine section before your evening plans.

Catch a Summer Blockbuster in Ultimate Comfort

There is a specific kind of joy in escaping the peak afternoon heat by ducking into a dark, air-conditioned movie theater. When the Central Coast summer sun becomes a bit too intense, Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas at The Promenade at Westlake elevates the traditional movie-going experience into a true luxury outing. Gone are the days of standard stadium seating; here, you sink into plush, fully reclining loungers. The real draw, however, is the in-theater dining. You can reserve your specific seats in advance, settle in, and have a full menu of gourmet food and craft cocktails delivered straight to your lounger. It is the ultimate way to hide from the sun for a few hours.

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas — Order your food and drinks at least 30 minutes before the film starts to ensure everything arrives well before the credits roll.

Tip: Always reserve your seats online a few days ahead for Friday and Saturday night showings, as the premium loungers book up quickly.

Cap the Night With a Classic Deli Feast

After a movie or an evening out, you might find yourself craving a satisfying, hearty bite to close the day. Brent's Deli, conveniently serving the Westlake Village area from Townsgate Road, is my absolute go-to for late-evening comfort food. They serve up a full menu of classic delicatessen favorites that consistently hit the spot. They stay open late most days, making it an incredibly reliable option when other kitchens are shutting down for the night. Order their legendary pastrami sandwich—it's perfectly peppery, incredibly tender, and best enjoyed with a side of their crispy knishes. It is the perfect way to end a quintessential Thousand Oaks summer day.

Brent's Deli — If you have a sweet tooth, save room for one of their massive, freshly baked pastries available at the deli counter.