4 /5 Michael Teoli: I discovered the Oxnard Historic Park Foundation in the "Passport 2 History" booklet. Im always looking for interesting and different places to see with my three year old. The grounds are cool and have a nice display of farming equipment, tractors and vegetation. There was a fundraiser setting up when we visited, so keep them in mind for your next rental.
There are two structures to explore. The first has some cool artifacts in it and has more of a museum feel. We enjoyed the cool large safe and admired the player piano, though it wasnt currently working. Then we were showed where the main building is and were given the okay to self-explore. Its important to note that they are currently fundraising for the first phase of restoring the house. Unlike many of the other historical sites and museums weve visited, this one is just being put together. Upon exploring the second floor, nearly all the doors had spider webs (complete with spiders) across them, and most of the rooms are empty. There was some cool things, like the piano which my son loved. There was some cool old signs and historical memorabilia, but Im more excited to watch this place grow into a place of beauty. Right now it is fun as it has that kind of "exploring and old haunted house" kind of vibe. So just note the above and dont let the kids wander too far in front of you as I could imagine injury happening at the moment.
As far as rating, I almost gave this a 3... but since its a work in progress, its free and the grounds are lovely... I think it deserves a solid 4.
Heres the key: There are also TWO playgrounds just next door if youd like to let the kids play... or better yet, bundle a few of the passport 2 history museums together! We visited The Pleasant Valley Historical Society Museum & Botanical Garden AND the Reyes Adobe all on the same day!
