SIMI VALLEY/THOUSAND OAKS
Simi Valley’s main attraction, in addition to its charming agricultural character, is the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum (40 Presidential Drive, 800-410-8354, 805-577-4000), which celebrates Ronald Reagan’s life and presidency through photographs, memorabilia, a replica of the Oval Office, a section of the Berlin Wall, changingcultural exhibits, and burial site. Open daily, 10 am–5pm. Admission is $5 general, $3 for seniors over 62, and free for children 16 and under.

The upscale residential community of Thousand Oaks (20 minutes south of Ventura on Highway 101) is a regional cultural center, thanks in large part to the spectacular Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza performing arts center, completed in 1994. This state-ofthe- art complex features an 1,800-seat theater as well as a 400-seat forum. Both halls host world-class performing artists, plays, musicals, concerts, and more. For information, call the box office at 805-449-ARTS.