10 Arts and Culture Spots to Explore in Simi Valley

In Simi Valley, arts and culture take center stage.

Galleries, live performances, hands-on studios, and unique cultural landmarks offer plenty of ways to engage with the city’s creative side. Visitors can explore vibrant local art, participate in interactive experiences, and discover quirky attractions that make the city memorable.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend stay, Simi Valley invites you to experience creativity in every corner.

History & Heritage

1. Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

📍 40 Presidential Drive

No visit to Simi Valley is complete without the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Visitors can explore the Oval Office replica to see how the president worked, tour the actual Air Force One that carried Reagan and world leaders, and get up close with the historic presidential motorcade.

The museum also features carefully curated exhibits filled with campaign memorabilia and Cold War artifacts. Beyond the collections, the library’s beautifully landscaped grounds offer sweeping views of the valley, making it a perfect spot for a stroll or a memorable photo.

2. Strathearn Historical Park & Museum

📍 137 Strathearn Place

Step into Simi Valley’s pioneer past at Strathearn Historical Park & Museum, where preserved 19th-century buildings, including a schoolhouse and blacksmith shop, showcase early settler life.

Docent-led tours bring the history to life, and shaded walking paths wind through historic gardens—a serene way to explore the region’s roots.

3. Santa Susana Depot Museum

📍 6503 Katherine Road

For railroad enthusiasts, the Santa Susana Depot Museum highlights the city’s railroading history. The restored train station is home to vintage locomotives, railcars, and a detailed model railroad layout, along with artifacts and photographs that tell the story of rail travel in the region.

4. Military History Museum

📍 1555 Simi Town Center Way #220

The VFW Military History Museum houses displays of military posters, uniforms, weapons, and artifacts spanning multiple conflicts from WWI to the present day. Many items were donated by local veterans, and volunteers often share personal stories, making this a meaningful and educational stop for visitors of all ages.

Arts, Galleries & Creative Culture

5. Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center

📍 3050 E Los Angeles Avenue

The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center is the city’s hub for live performances, offering a full calendar of theater productions, concerts, and community shows. Catch everything from local theater troupes to touring musicians in a welcoming venue designed to highlight the performing arts.

6. Lewis Galleries

📍 1555 Simi Town Center Way Unit 130

Lewis Galleries showcases a diverse collection of artwork, from fine pieces to contemporary favorites, with a focus on creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or an art lover looking to browse, the gallery’s ever-changing exhibits provide a fascinating look at regional and international artists.

7. Adam’s Forge

📍 750 E. Easy Street

Adam’s Forge is where fire, metal, and creativity come together in one unforgettable, hands-on arts experience. This dynamic space celebrates the craft of blacksmithing and metalworking, giving visitors a chance to see (and try) the artistry behind hand-forged pieces.

Unique & Offbeat Cultural Stops

8. Corriganville Park

📍 7001 Smith Road
Corriganville Park blends outdoor recreation with Hollywood history. Explore paths among sandstone rock formations and the remnants of Western film sets where classic movies and TV shows were shot. The scenic trails and historic markers invite visitors to immerse themselves in both nature and cinematic lore.

9. Grandma Prisbrey’s Bottle Village

📍 4595 Cochran Street

Grandma Prisbrey’s Bottle Village is a whimsical folk art environment built almost entirely from thousands of recycled bottles and found objects. The colorful structures, fountains, and whimsical walkways offer a truly one-of-a-kind visual experience that reflects the creative spirit of its founder, Tressa “Grandma” Prisbrey.

10. Skateboarding Hall of Fame

📍 1555 Simi Town Center Way #230

The Skateboarding Hall of Fame celebrates the sport’s evolution with thousands of vintage boards, memorabilia, and artifacts honoring influential skaters. The museum also features ramps and interactive elements, making it both a cultural tribute and a lively destination for fans of skate culture.

Places to Stay

While you explore arts and culture in Simi Valley, you’ll want a comfortable place to rest your head each night. From convenient chain hotels to budget‑friendly stays, here are some great options to book during your visit:

• Holiday Inn Express Simi Valley – Comfortable choice with free breakfast and easy access to local attractions.
• Grand Vista Hotel – Classic motel‑style stay just minutes from downtown and cultural sites.
• Courtyard by Marriott Ventura Simi Valley – Modern rooms and amenities close to restaurants and shopping.
• Best Western Posada Royale Hotel & Suites – Reliable comfort with free Wi‑Fi in the heart of the city.

Simi Valley is full of vibrant arts and culture experiences waiting to be explored. From the iconic Ronald Reagan Presidential Library to hands-on creativity at Color Café, the city blends history, artistry, and unique attractions in ways that appeal to every type of visitor.