OJAI SUMMER WANDERINGS
If you are in my close circle of friends, we have spent a day wandering Ojai before. As many can attest, I LOVE OJAI. Not only does the city itself have lovely things to see or quaint little shops to browse, but the people themselves are unbelievably kind. I always tell people to take a weekend or day trip to Ojai and enjoy the perfect trifecta of day trip necessities: submersion in nature, quaint small town wanderings, and the feeling of being completely removed from your everyday life. Here is a small day planned out for you to take with your best friend, significant other, or by yourself (I do this oh, too frequently!) Enjoy sugar!
Stop One: Casitas Lake Overlook
I always make sure I pullover on the drive to sit and enjoy the Casitas Lake View xx
The pull off stop is rather large leaving enough room for you to park easily and sit under the warm California Sun. Take time to enjoy the view and look for boats out on the water! xx
Stop Two: Coffee, Coffee, Coffee!
My coffee addiction is real and always welcomed to be encouraged with new friends!
Ojai is filled with the loveliest coffee shops around! I tend to hop back and forth between the few depending on what I am looking to grab to drink. Here are the best in town to check out for your preference! Check out the cafe that sounds most perfect for you!
The best COLD BREW is on tap at Noso Vita Social Cafe
The best CHAI LATTE is at Coffee Connection (they also have pumpkin chai during season!)
The best place to sit outside and enjoy your coffee and conversation is
Of course that are more places to refuel, but these three have come to be my favorites and if you learn anything about me, know that I NEVER steer anyone wrong with food and coffee!
Stop Three: Lunch Eats
Soft melodic jazz and romantic oldies play overhead
Whether you are eating healthy, organic, vegan, craving carbs, fettuccine enthusiast, or pizza luvvver, Papa Lennon's is the spot for you! The extensive menu is a collaboration of the best locally sourced produce. The owners are personal, always in the restaurant, and as welcoming to first timers as they are to regulars. The patio is what separates this restaurant apart from anywhere else i've eaten in the area. The food is fantastic and i find myself craving it constantly! Order the garlic fries if you know what's important in life haha. The ambience of the patio slows down your day to a dreamy aesthetic lunch you can enjoy with friends and family. The communal tables allow you to meet locals, the string bulb lights and ivy walls offer a romantic aesthetic, and the slow jazz is the final touch.
Stop Four: Shopping + Browsing
Vintage Threads are worth more than gold to me xx
Browsing is always a favorite hobby because it lets me notice details + appreciate buyer curation
How quaint is the layout of this shop!
If you have ever seen my apartment or closet, you know that I love to browse specific pieces to add to my decor and everyday life. Everything piece of clothing I own was either thrifted, handed down, or bought specifically for an event. I love to curate my closet to fit the multiple facets of my personality. I love retro A-line wear, 70's vividly printed fabrics, sweetheart floral pinks, classic daisy dukes & crop tops for a hot summer day, and don't show me sequin pieces without expecting me to try it on. I love finding unique pieces in the smallest shops in small towns. If you love classic Americana products, felt banners, cactus pots, homemade candles, and locally crafted jewelry (uh, wait that should be everyone ever), head over to Summer Camp for the perfect home and lifestyle goods!
Stop Five: Mid Day Drink // Bottoms Up!
After a successful and busy day out, it's 5'clock, or close enough to it :)
My absolute favorite place to grab a drink is the Ojai Deer Lodge. The rustic and charming decor, the nestled location, and the talented musicians that pass through the stage are worth your visit. Sit back, order a drink, and enjoy yourself till you're ready to order your dinner.
Till Next Time Sugar, XX VEE
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