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By Ara, January 6th 2025
Record Stores, Live Music, and More: A Music Lover’s Guide to Ventura County Coast
With its laid-back beach towns and vibrant local culture, Ventura County Coast is a hidden gem for music enthusiasts. Whether you’re a vinyl collector, a gear-seeking musician, or someone who loves discovering new bands, the region has endless options. From iconic record shops and must-visit music stores to energetic live performances, here’s your go-to guide for exploring music in Ventura County.
The Vinyl Resurgence
Vinyl records have enjoyed an incredible comeback, as listeners rediscover the warm, rich sound only analog can deliver. This revival has breathed new life into local record stores, enticing people away from their screens and back into the tactile world of flipping through albums. In Ventura County, vinyl shops have continued their evolution as community hubs where collectors, audiophiles, and casual fans bond over their shared love of music.
Salzer’s Records, Ventura
The late Jim Salzer, a pioneering Southern California music promoter in the 1960s, left behind a legacy embodied by Salzer’s Records, a Ventura County institution since 1972. This legendary shop features an expansive selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, DVDs, games, and more. From rare finds and classic albums to the latest indie releases, Salzer’s has it all. Regular in-store events—live performances, meet-and-greets, autograph signings, and listening parties—make this spot a must-visit for music lovers.
American Pie Records, Camarillo
This old-school haven specializes in used LPs, 45s, and audiophile-grade releases, appealing equally to seasoned collectors and curious newcomers. Beyond music, American Pie Records frequently hosts live performances, spotlighting local talent. Adjacent to the shop, the American Pie Coffee House invites you to savor coffee, espresso drinks, snacks, and ice cream, creating a seamless blend of music and coffee culture.
Grady’s Record Refuge, Ventura
Grady’s is another premier destination for vinyl lovers, offering an eclectic array of new and used vinyl, cassettes, and CDs. In addition to the thousands of titles they offer, Grady’s provides turntable parts and repairs, stereo equipment, vinyl cleaning supplies, and digital transfer services for preserving your analog collection. Grady’s also occasionally hosts in-store local music events.
Music Freqs, Camarillo
Musicians visiting Ventura County Coast will definitely want to stop by Music Freqs in Camarillo. Music Freqs goes far beyond their huge selection of musical instruments, offering a full slate of guitar and bass repair and maintenance services, from string changes and setups to advanced restorations. They also operate a fully equipped recording studio and The Brite Room, an innovative “immersive” venue with a top-of-the-line PA and a Projection Mapping system wrapping its walls for fully customizable images and videos. Live workshops and performances are hosted here, adding to the store’s vibrant atmosphere.
Live Music, Nightlife, and More!
If live music is your jam, Ventura County delivers something for everyone, from intimate acoustic sets to DJ performances and energetic concerts on grand stages. Here’s a breakdown of key spots across the area:
Ventura
Ventura County Fairgrounds: Known for large-scale concerts and events, this outdoor venue is a favorite for festivals and touring acts.
Ventura Music Hall: A contemporary venue featuring an eclectic lineup of performers across genres.
The Majestic Ventura Theater: Opened in 1928, this historic theater is a jewel in Ventura’s music scene. With its grand architecture and superb sound, top artists from every genre have graced its stage, from Snoop Dogg, Modest Mouse, and The Ramones to Willie Nelson, Pearl Jam and countless others.
Surfers Point Live: Enjoy live music and stunning beach views at this festival-favorite venue.
The Grape House of Jazz & Spirits: A cozy spot that regularly features live jazz and local talent.
Rubicon Theater Company: Best known for its theatrical performances, the Rubicon occasionally hosts music events and cabaret-style performances.
Keynote Lounge: A downtown Ventura hotspot showcasing the best local talent, including DJs, bands, open mic nights, and karaoke.
Camarillo
Rancho Campana Performing Arts Center: One of the largest venues in Ventura County, this state-of-the-art theater seats up to 695 and features cutting-edge equipment and lighting for local symphony concerts, showcasing both community talent and professional artistry.
Studio Channel Islands Art Center: Primarily an art gallery, it also includes a stage for live performances, marrying visual art with music.
Topa Topa Brewing Co.: Located at The Mark in Old Town Camarillo (as well as downtown Ventura), Topa Topa has an expansive outdoor patio and often features live bands and acoustic performances. You’ll also find plenty of food options, artisan ice cream, and more at The Mark’s food hall.
Institution Ale Co.: A lively brewery showcasing local musicians and inviting outdoor vibes.
Oxnard
Levity Live & Copper Blues Cantina: Enjoy a double dose of entertainment at this combined hotspot. Catch top-tier comedians at Levity Live’s comedy club, then head next door to Copper Blues Cantina, a lively restaurant and music venue hosting bands, DJs, themed brunches, and more.
Oxnard College Performing Arts Center: A versatile venue ideal for concerts and theatrical productions, hosting both local and touring acts.
Oxnard Performing Arts and Convention Center: Popular for large concerts, community events, and more.
Plan a Music-Filled Adventure
For a music lover exploring Ventura County, the region offers an incredible range of record stores, live music venues, and nightlife spots. Throughout the area, farmers’ markets, local parks, coffee shops, and wineries celebrate Ventura County Coast musicians. Whether you’re browsing downtown Ventura, relaxing in Camarillo, or dancing the night away in Oxnard, prepare for a music-filled adventure you’ll never forget.
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