Free and Cheap Things to Do in Simi Valley

Have some time on your hands and want to find something fun and free (or mostly free) to do in Simi Valley? From fun outdoor activities to parks and museums, Simi Valley has a little something for everyone. For movie and TV buffs, explore a movie ranch or bike enthusiasts can enjoy an exhilarating road or mountain bike ride.
Check out our list of the top free and cheap things to do in Simi Valley for all the details.

1) Take a Hike

Simi Valley is surrounded by beautiful greenbelts, trails and protected lands, making it a favorite hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. With over 50 miles of trail extending as far as Los Angeles, hikes in Simi can range from easy to extreme, appealing to a variety of fitness levels. Five of the most popular trails include those found in Corriganville Park, Rocky Peak, The Hummingbird Trail, Long Canyon and Mount McCoy.

2) Explore the Strathearn Historical Park and Museum

The sprawling, 6-acre Strathearn Historical Park and Museum is one of Simi Valley’s historical treasures. Numerous old buildings still stand on the site, including the Strathearn house, Saint Rose of Lima Church, the original Simi Library and even an old Barbershop! You can stroll the grounds, have a picnic, take a docent-led tour or attend one of the many yearly events. Park grounds are open to the public from 9 AM-3 PM, Monday – Friday and 1 PM-4 PM on Saturday – Sunday.

3) Visit Santa Susanna Railroad & Museum

The Santa Susana Depot was part of the Southern Pacific Railroad that was built in 1903 and served the residents of Simi Valley for more than 60 years. Today you can visit both the Depot and Model Railroad Museum where every day the Amtrak, Metrolink and Union Pacific still roll the station. The museum features several historically accurate, interactive displays that are fun for both young and old alike. Depot Hours are every Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (excluding major holidays).

4) Take a selfie at the Corriganville Movie Ranch

Famous as both a working film studio and movie ranch, as well as a Western-themed tourist attraction, the Corriganville Movie ranch is one of the most recognized locations in Simi Valley. Currently operated as a public park managed by the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District, The Corriganville Park is a favorite attraction for tourists and locals. Remains of old movie and theme park buildings still remain, along with signposts with photos describing various film locations. The park is open for hiking and exploration were visitors will enjoy the many dramatic rock formations that made it such a popular film location for decades.

5) Ride the Arroyo Simi Bike Path

Grab your bike or throw on your sneakers and head out to the Arroyo Simi Bike Path. This two-lane multi-use trail beckons bikers, walkers, joggers, horseback riders and skateboarders to enjoy its picturesque 6-7 mile long paved paths. Along the way, interpretive and directional signage at various points guide visits along the trial.

6) Check out the weird and wonderful Grandma Prisbrey’s Bottle Village

Listed on the California Historical Landmark and the National Register of Historic Places, the Bottle Village is a quirky, one-of-a-kind Simi treasure described by The Los Angeles times as an “eccentric folk-art wonderland”. Wander through the Bottle Village built by Tressa “Grandma” Prisbrey’s and be delighted by sculptures, shrines, and mosaic sidewalk with names like the Leaning Tower of Bottle Village, the Dolls Head Shrine, Cleopatra’s Bedroom, the Round House, and more. Enjoy this unique Simi Valley creation built entirely from a collection of thousands of recycled discards from the local landfill.

7) Catch an Annual Event or Festival

Line dancing, Cajun and blues music, street fairs, festivals, carnivals and fun runs are just a few of the surprisingly fun and cheap events happening in Simi Valley every year. Visit an event and plan an overnight stay to extend your trip and add a visit to the Reagan Presidential Library and Museum or one of the other great activities on this list!