Venice, California, which is not the same as Venice, Italy, is a lively seaside neighborhood on LA's Westside known for its bohemian charm, canals, and creative energy. Abbot Kinney started it in 1905 and called it the "Venice of America." It has a unique mix of art, surfing, and street culture. People can walk along the famous boardwalk, watch bodybuilders at Muscle Beach, or check out the murals and indie shops on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Venice has more than just tourist attractions. It also has quaint canals, walkable streets, and local favorites like Gjusta Deli and Mother's Beach. It has more than 300 sunny days a year, so it's a place that balances excitement and calm. It's a mix of culture, ocean air, and the real Los Angeles spirit.
Los Angeles has its own version of Venice, but it's different from the one in Italy. Venice, California, on the Westside of Los Angeles, has a mix of bohemian and coastal charm.
Abbot Kinney started it in 1905 as the "Venice of America." It has man-made canals, a lively boardwalk, and a wide range of art scenes. This guide covers its famous sights, fun activities, free activities, and secret places to visit for an authentic experience.
What is Venice, CA, Famous For?
Venice is fascinating because it has a countercultural spirit that comes from Kinney's idea of Italian-inspired canals and attractions. Today, the 2.5-mile Ocean Front Walk boardwalk is famous for its buskers, like Harry Perry, a roller-skating guitarist, and the Glass Man. Muscle Beach, where Arnold Schwarzenegger trained, is a symbol of its fitness history and attracts more than 10 million visitors each year.
Abbot Kinney Boulevard has cool shops and galleries, and the skate park and pier show off its surf and street art roots. It has more than 300 sunny days a year, which makes it even more appealing as a laid-back, artistic place.
Note:
If Venice, Italy, is still on your bucket list, don’t miss learning about its most spectacular cultural event: the Regata Storica boat races. Discover how locals celebrate centuries of maritime history through colorful parades and traditional gondola races by reading our complete guide on how to experience the historic Regata Storica in Venice.
Unique Things to Do in Venice, Los Angeles
Venice offers unique activities that blend history, art, and ocean vibes. These places show off their artistic side, from beautiful mosaics to secret waterways.
1. Wander the Venice Canals Historic District
Walk across beautiful bridges over calm waterways that remind you of Italy. You can see ducks and old cottages in this quiet area.
What makes it special: Built in 1905, it's a rare slice of Kinney's original dream amid urban LA.
Tips: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds; it's free to get in and only a 10-minute walk from the boardwalk.
2. Tour the Mosaic Tile House
Take a look at a 1940s bungalow that artists Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran have covered in tiles, mirrors, and other found objects over the course of 20 years.
Why is it special? A living art installation and studio showcasing Venice's bohemian craft.
3. Skate or Watch at Venice Beach Skatepark
Since 2009, locals have been grinding rails in this 27,000-square-foot concrete bowl with an ocean view.
What makes it unique: The place where modern skateboarding started, with pro-level tricks and a Pacific soundtrack.
Helmets are required, watching is free, and you can rent boards nearby for $10 an hour.
4. Shop and Street Art Hunt on Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Between murals and galleries, check out indie stores like Aviator Nation for surfwear from the 1970s.
Why Unique: This is LA's coolest mile, where high-end fashion meets pop-up art walls.
Tips: Live painting happens on Sundays. Use a self-guided mural map app to navigate.
5. Bike the South Bay Strand Path
This trail along the coast goes 22 miles from Venice to Torrance, where you can rent bikes and play volleyball.
Why it's special: Views of cliffs and beaches without cars, which makes Venice's free-spirited ride even better.
Advice: Rentals start at $15 per day, and sunset rides are beautiful in golden light.
6. Visit the Venice Fishing Pier
You can fish from this 1,310-foot concrete jetty, which was rebuilt after storms in the 1990s.
What makes it unique: A great place to watch the sunset and see dolphins, and fishing is free.
Tips: You need a fishing license ($15 per day), and there are benches to sit and watch.
Free Things to Do in Venice, Los Angeles
Venice is full of free things to do, from watching people to seeing natural wonders. These gems are suitable for your wallet.
1. Stroll Ocean Front Walk Boardwalk
People-watch jugglers, mimes, and vendors along this 2.5-mile promenade.
Why Free: Endless entertainment, from fortune-tellers to drum circles.
Tips: Weekday mornings are quieter; it ends at the historic pavilion murals.
2. Watch Bodybuilders at Muscle Beach
Gawk at outdoor gym feats where stars like Schwarzenegger honed skills.
Why Free: Iconic sand-and-iron spectacle with ringside ocean views.
Tips: Open daily; $10 day pass is optional for trying it yourself.
3. Explore Venice Walk Streets
Meander car-free alleys like Nowita Place, lined with colorful bungalows and gardens.
Why Free: Peek into boho homes, once entertainer haunts, now celeb enclaves.
Tips: Inland from canals; best at dusk for lantern-lit charm.
4. Admire Street Art Walls
Snap Venice Pavilion's massive murals by local artists, evolving seasonally.
Why Free: Rotating exhibits capture the neighborhood's edgy pulse.
Tips: Bike path access; weekends may feature live creation.
5. Sunset at Venice Beach South of Boulevard
Relax on quieter sands below Washington Blvd, with bonfire rings and volleyball.
Why Free: Serene Pacific dips and glows, minus boardwalk bustle.
Tips: Fire permits ($1/hour); arrive by 7 PM in summer.
6. Visit Venice Heritage Museum
Browse free exhibits on Kinney's era, with photos and artifacts in a 1900s bathhouse.
Why Free: Quick dive into the "Venice of America" history.
Tips: Open weekends; 5-minute walk from the pier.
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Non-Touristy Things to Do in Venice Beach
Skip the crowds for local secrets: quiet corners and insider rituals that feel like Venice's hidden heartbeat.
1. Gjusta Deli for breakfast
This place doesn't take reservations so that you can enjoy house-baked bread and sandwiches made with fresh market ingredients.
Why Local: Venice artists love Chef Travis Lett's farm-to-table restaurant.
Arrive before 9 AM; the outdoor seating has a view of the action.
2. Walk the Walk Streets to Penmar Park
Wander through the alleys to find this hidden green space with picnic tables and a pickleball court.
Why Local: A quiet place for dog walkers and joggers to get away from the noise of the boardwalk.
Advice: Entry is free, and the shaded paths are great for cooling off in the middle of the day.
3. Look through Burro for indie finds
In this cozy shop off the main road, you can look for old books, cards, and gifts.
Why Local: Designed for Venice's artsy crowd, with a cat-friendly vibe.
Tips: Get coffee nearby; go on weekdays to avoid long lines.
4. Relax at the Rose Avenue Boutiques
Find wellness spots like HUME, where you can shop for free while new restaurants open.
Why Local: a new strip for yoga classes and organic markets.
Tips: Go early in the evening; ride your bike from the canals to keep things moving.
5. Look for murals on backstreets
Find hidden art in alleys near Lincoln Blvd, like the fairy-tale cottage "Hobbit House."
Why Local: A self-guided hunt shows off the fun homes without tours.
Use map apps; colors look better in the morning light.
6. Have a picnic at Marina del Rey's Mother's Beach
Relax on calm beaches near Venice, where you can see sailboats and playgrounds.
Why Local: A safe cove for families to avoid crowds at the pier.
Advice: Park for free and have a picnic at sunset while you shop. For last things to say, whether you’re looking for beachfront stays in Venice, California, or romantic escapes in Venice, Italy, explore top-rated options through Planingo Hotels. You’ll find the best hotel deals and stays tailored to every traveler’s style and budget.
Conclusion
It's hard to put your finger on the energy in Venice, California. The boardwalk is bustling with noise, while the canals offer a peaceful escape. This setting encourages adventurers to unleash their creativity, whether they're seeking exciting new experiences or secret spots.
You can rent a bike, hang out in the sun, or look for murals. Arrive early and use the weather apps to make plans quickly. You feel more than just a place when you go to Venice. For all your travel needs, from destinations to inspiration, visit Planingo.ai. Your intelligent companion for discovering the world’s best places to stay, fly, and explore. Whether you’re dreaming of canals in California or gondolas in Italy, Planingo helps you plan smarter and travel better.
