Oxnard is a seaside town located west of Los Angeles. The city has many attractions and is home to the Carnegie Art Museum, which features contemporary art from California. The museum is housed in a former library built in 1906. You can also see early 1900s homes that dot Heritage Square. If you want to relax and enjoy the beach, head to Oxnard Beach Park, which has a wide sandy shoreline and grassy lawns. The city is also home to Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary.
History of Oxnard California
The history of Oxnard California dates back to the late nineteenth century. The city was known for producing a wide variety of crops, including cucumbers, sugar beets, lima beans, and stock (cut flower). In the 1970s, the town grew rapidly, and many farms were annexed to make way for new developments. Ultimately, Oxnard grew to be the county’s largest city, with a population of more than 200,000.
A century ago, Hollywood cinematographers flocked to Oxnard for filming. In 1921, Paramount Studios used the coastline as a perfect stand-in for the desert in Rudolph Valentino’s “The Sheik.” After the filming of the film, Clark Gable bought a house on the shoreline and other Hollywood stars, including Charlie Chaplin and John Wayne, came to the town. Today, the city has a public library and museum, and visitors can learn more about the history of Oxnard.
Oxnard’s growth spurred development in other areas of the city, such as the downtown area. Today, the city’s cultural institutions include the Carnegie Art Museum, which was originally the Oxnard Public Library. In addition, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum is a must-see, with five centuries of maritime art on display. The museum is interactive and features ship models and artifacts from shipwrecks.
The town’s population has increased steadily since the 1940s, thanks to the creation of military bases and the development of manufacturing industries. While the city has now become one of the largest cities in Ventura County, the region is still rich in agricultural production.
1542: Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo becomes the first European to set foot in the area that would become Oxnard.
18th century: The Chumash, a Native American tribe, are the main inhabitants of the Oxnard area. They have a complex society and economy based on hunting, fishing, and trading.
1837: Mexico grants Rancho El Rio de Santa Clara to Henry Oxnard, an Englishman, and it was used for farming and ranching, after whom the city was named.
1872: The first train arrives in Oxnard, connecting the city to Los Angeles and San Francisco. This leads to an increase in population and economic activity in the area.
1906: The Port of Hueneme is built, providing the city with a major shipping and transportation hub.
1920s: The sugar beet industry becomes a major source of employment and economic growth in Oxnard, with several sugar beet factories operating in the area.
1940s: The population of Oxnard continues to grow, driven by the expansion of the defence industry during World War II and the post-war boom in housing and construction.
1960s: The expansion of the freeway system and the growth of the aerospace and high-tech industries in the region lead to an increase in population and economic activity in Oxnard.
21st century: Oxnard is known for its rich cultural heritage and for being one of the largest strawberry producing regions in the state. The city is also home to a growing number of high-tech and aerospace companies, as well as a thriving tourism industry. Oxnard is also working towards creating a more sustainable future by focusing on green initiatives and promoting eco-friendly practices.
The Best 9 Things to do in Oxnard
Carnegie Art Museum
The Carnegie Art Museum Oxnard California focuses on California art, and the museum regularly features shows that highlight its local roots and influence. A recent exhibition, Homegrown, centered on the works of three local artists who had shared experiences growing up in the city. The museum also showcases works from local and national collectors.
The Carnegie Art Museum Oxnard California is housed in a 1906 neoclassical building in the heart of the arts district. It features an extensive collection of California artwork, including modern and contemporary art. It also hosts major traveling exhibitions. The museum charges an admission fee, but it is well worth it.
The Carnegie Art Museum was founded in 1906 with a $12,000 donation from Andrew Carnegie. It was originally built as a library, but was converted to an art museum in 1909. The building is constructed in the Neo-Classical style, which was popular during the first decades of the twentieth century. The facade is reminiscent of a Greek Temple, and the interior is lined with Ionic columns. It was designed by Los Angeles architect Franklin Burnham.
Located in the historic Carnegie Building, the Carnegie Art Museum Oxnard California is an important part of the community’s cultural life. It hosts a wide range of exhibitions and is an excellent place to view contemporary art. Visitors can also check out the museum’s permanent collection, which includes over 600 pieces of art.
Channel Islands Harbor
The Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, California is a small craft harbor and shore protection project at the southern end of the Santa Barbara Channel. It is the fifth largest harbor for small craft recreation in California. The harbor is a waterfront resort, recreation and dining marketplace. The harbor is a great place to spend time on a small craft or rent a larger craft.
The harbor is located in Oxnard, California, which is easily accessible from the 101 Freeway. Then, take Victoria Avenue and turn left onto Channel Islands Harbor. It’s about 5 miles south of Ventura. The harbor offers a number of family-friendly activities, including the Celebration of the Whales, Tall Ships, Concerts by the Sea, and the Ventura County Boat Show. Additionally, the harbor hosts the annual Parade of Lights and is home to the Ventura Vintage Rods Harbor Run Classic Car Show.
The city’s coastal line is also beautiful. The Mandalay Beach Resort features a historic bell tower and a boardwalk. It complements the Colony and the other resorts in Oxnard. Other public beaches in Oxnard include Oxnard State Beach with scenic sand dunes and palm trees, and Oxnard State Beach. The state beach also includes a handicapped-accessible beach.
Mullin Automotive Museum
The Mullin Automotive Museum is a privately owned automobile museum located in Oxnard, California. It was established in 2010 and features the collection of Peter W. Mullin’s personal cars. The museum has over 60 exhibits and specializes in classic cars. The museum features an extensive collection of cars dating back to the 1890s.
The Mullin Automotive Museum is a wonderful way to learn about the history of automobiles. The museum is housed in a stately building with a mezzanine, theatre, and main showroom. The venue is ideal for special events and can be decorated to suit the occasion.
Mullin has a passion for cars, which has prompted him to open two car museums in Oxnard. The museum features the famous car, which was dredged from Lake Maggiore 70 years ago.
Mandalay State Beach
The Mandalay State Beach in Oxnard, CA is a pristine, protected beach maintained by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The state-managed beach preserves the wetlands and undeveloped sand dunes that once covered the 16.5-mile coastline of the Oxnard Plain.
This undeveloped beach preserves the unique ecology of coastal dune habitats and sandy ocean shores. The state-managed beach is an ideal spot for beachcombing, birdwatching, and other beach-related recreational activities. However, visitors must exercise care to protect the dune ecosystem and preserve the scenic integrity of the area.
Mandalay State Beach is a low-key, quiet beach that is open from dawn to dusk. There are no restrooms or lifeguards on duty, but the beach is always clean and nearly empty. In addition, dogs can be left on leash, and there is free parking.
Visitors may also visit the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. Its unique exhibits include Prisoner of War bone model ships. For local eats, check out The Shores Bar & Restaurant. The Shores Bar and Restaurant serves sustainable fare and is open daily from 11am to 11pm. Nearby, Red Tandem Brewing offers eight taps of locally brewed beer. It offers brewery tours, too.
Oxnard State Beach and Park
Oxnard’s beach is perfect for families, and visitors can enjoy surfing all year long. It’s also part of Oxnard State Park, which has picnic areas and playgrounds. Locals love the Silver Strand Beach, which has a pier and is ideal for surfing.
Visitors can also explore local art galleries and shops. There’s something for everyone, and the sand is soft and powdery. Kids can also explore the nearby protected land and take a bike ride or hike. You can also go whale watching, which is a great way to get up close and personal with these creatures. Several whale watching cruises leave from Oxnard’s marina, and you can even go on a Channel Islands whale watching tour.
Channel Islands Maritime Museum
The Channel Islands Maritime Museum in Oxnard, California, is an educational venue that overlooks the harbor. While there, you can also visit the Maritime Heritage Center, an adjacent educational venue. Both facilities focus on maritime history and are an excellent choice for families. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits and offers a variety of programs and activities.
The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is a nonprofit organization that opened in 1991. It focuses on public education and research, and offers educational programs and events. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors. Children under 18 are admitted free. It is open daily, except for the days of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year.
A highlight of the Channel Islands Maritime Museum is the Upper Deck. This gallery features over 100 scale models and displays about life on the sea. Visitors can also view the museum’s featured temporary exhibits. The museum also hosts art receptions and lectures every third Thursday of the month.
Silver Strand Beach
Located in Ventura County, California, Silver Strand Beach is an unincorporated beach community. Known for its beautiful sands, great surfing, and family-friendly atmosphere, Silver Strand Beach is perfect for a day of relaxation. The beach is popular with tourists, surfers, and locals alike, and offers some of the best sunsets and sunrises in the area.
Silver Strand Beach is a mile-long stretch of pristine white sand, which gleams in the sun. The area is also home to a variety of marine life including dolphins, seals, and jellyfish. You can even catch halibut or pismo clams. If you like to fish, you can head to the Channel Islands Sport Fishing Center located one mile away from the beach.
The beach is accessible to people with disabilities. A wheelchair ramp leads to the viewing platform overlooking the Channel Islands Harbor. Guests can watch dolphins, harbor seals, and jellyfish from the beach. Dogs are welcome to join you at the beach, but must be kept on a leash. Parking is free and available in two parking lots.
Herzog Wine Cellars
Herzog Wine Cellars is a family-run company located in Oxnard, California. The winery is a 77,000 square-foot facility dedicated to making fine wine and educating people about the wine-making process. Visitors can tour the winery’s barrel room, bottling line, and cellar. The facility also has exhibits of relics and family history.
The Herzog family has big plans for Oxnard. They want to continue building a stronger community, and they want the Herzog Tasting Room to be a central part of that. In the meantime, they’re offering $1 wine tasting flights for guests. These flights will be part of their future plans.
The Herzog Wine Cellars is a family-owned business that has been producing premium wines for nine generations. They make a variety of red, white, rose, and dessert wines. The winery also has a wine shop and a wine club that provides discounts and free samples to members. There are also dining options at the winery, including the Tierra Sur Restaurant. The winery is conveniently located just north of Los Angeles.
The Murphy Auto Museum
The Murphy Auto Museum is a wonderful place to learn more about the history of the automobile. This museum displays automobiles dating back to 1903 and features special events related to autos. The museum features a large collection of vintage cars, as well as more modern vehicles. The museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is free.
Visitors can experience the past and present of classic cars and trucks in the museum’s exhibits, which include more than 60 restored vehicles. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as the annual vintage trailer exhibit. I visited the museum in April 2015 during a small weekend celebration called Camp Comfy.
The museum is located on Statham Boulevard in Oxnard, CA. It features over 50 antique cars, as well as vintage motorcycles and street rods. Visitors can also check out the museum’s vintage clothing display. It is open to the public on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm and is open to groups. There are docents on hand to answer questions, and groups can schedule a tour of the museum.
Best Restaurants in Oxnard
If you’re looking for a casual lunch spot in Oxnard, SushiWay is a great choice. Its cavernous interior is the perfect place to enjoy a meal without the rigors of formal dining. The restaurant also offers special events such as Taco Tuesday, sports nights, and live music. Happy hour is held every Monday through Friday. It’s located in the heart of Oxnard’s industrial district, close to the airport.
The food scene in Oxnard is thriving. Many of the restaurants offer a diverse menu, which can satisfy any taste. The most popular cuisine is American, followed by Mexican and seafood. The most popular American restaurants in Oxnard include Larsen’s Grill Oxnard, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Oxnard, and The Raven Tavern.
The newest restaurants in Oxnard offer unique menus. The Pacific Cafe offers a full menu of American and Mexican dishes. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, as well as carry-out. Cabo also offers a variety of local beers and margaritas. This is a great place to grab a delicious meal after a day of exploring the Channel Islands National Park.
