Venice is a neighborhood located in the west side of Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1905 by Abbot Kinney as a seaside resort, Venice has a rich history and eclectic architecture and is now known for its beaches, the 2.5 mile "Ocean Front Walk," and the remaining canals originally designed to resemble Venice, Italy.
Is Venice Safe?
Venice Beach is typically safe in the daytime and early evening, but it's advisable to avoid solo outings at night. Being mindful of your surroundings is crucial due to occasional instances of crime, such as theft and assaults. According to Crime Grade, Venice received a B grade, which means the rate of crime is slightly lower than the average US city. Visit crimegrade.org for more detailed info.
Where to Park in Venice Beach?
Parking at Venice Beach can be a challenge, especially on weekends or during popular events. Check Parkopedia to find plenty of parking options in Venice.
What to Do in Venice?
Read our list below of 15 Things to Do in Venice California.
Editor's Pick ✔️
1. Explore the Venice Boardwalk
Venice Boardwalk, Venice
Venice boardwalk is the epicenter of all the action. From street performers to artists to shops and restaurants, prepare to enter one of LA’s most exciting and "interesting" destinations. Even if you don’t plan on spending a dime, people-watching will keep you entertained all day. Explore during the daytime to make sure you get the most out of our top pick for best things to do in Venice.
2. Marvel at the Mosaic Tile House
1116 Palms Blvd, Venice
The Mosaic Tile House, as the name suggests, is a house covered entirely in tile. When you step inside, you’ll be entering a world of stunning mosaics made up of brilliant colors–talk about fun things to do in LA, right? The project was created by artists Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran in 1994. Entering requires a reservation, so book your slot as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss out.
3. Drinks at The Venice Whaler
10 Washington Blvd, Venice
In Venice, you’ll have a laundry list of restaurants and bars to choose from. But it doesn’t get much more iconic than The Venice Whaler. The establishment has been in operation since 1944. Whether it’s mimosas, lobster rolls, or BBQ chicken pizza, you’re in for a treat. Check out the menu to see what you have to look forward to.
4. Stroll the Venice Canals
Carroll Ct & Eastern Canal Ct, Venice
Did you know there are canals in Venice? The concept was based on the canals of Venice, Italy, and today, they create a gorgeous aesthetic surrounded by picturesque houses. Take a walk along the pathway and over pedestrian bridges for a relaxing and free thing to do in LA.
5. Shop along Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice
Abbot Kinney Boulevard is a delightful, mile-long strip of trendy retail shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. On the first Friday of each month, a caravan of food trucks parks along the street and serves mouthwatering bites. Take a look at some of the other popular events happening on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. If you’re not sure what to do in Los Angeles today, cruise over here and check it out.
6. Dine at Wurstküche Restaurant
625 Lincoln Blvd, Venice
Venice is home to a lot of good food. But if you really want to have your mind blown, sit down at Wurstküche Restaurant for the best sausage of your life. The establishment specializes in freshly baked rolls and a range of sausages, from pork to veal to vegetarian options. And, if you’re in town during the fall and looking for fun things to do in Los Angeles with friends and family then attend the restaurant’s Oktoberfest.
7. Skate at Venice Skatepark
1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice
The Venice skatepark is another can’t-miss landmark. Skaters from around the world gravitate to the skatepark and put on a show of epic tricks. Even if you’re not a skater, it’s worth visiting the spot to experience a bit of the action. Take a look at the live video feed to get a glimpse of the skatepark. If you’re in town at the end of July, catch the Venice Beach Games to watch skaters compete.
8. Pump Iron at Muscle Beach
1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice
Just off the Venice Boardwalk is Muscle Beach–The Home of Bodybuilding. It’s an outdoor gym that attracts ultra-jacked lifters. Arnold Schwarzenegger famously worked out at Muscle Beach during his heyday. Stop by and witness some of LA’s strongest men and women. See some of the bodybuilding events coming up.
9. Catch the Sunset from Venice Pier
Washington Blvd And Ocean Front Walk, Venice
If you’re looking for something more relaxed than the Santa Monica Pier, then head over to Venice Pier. The 1,300-foot walking path will give you stunning views of the Californian coastline. Grab a coffee and take your time as you walk to the very end and observe (or join) the fishermen lining the pier.
10. Surf at Venice Breakwater
Ocean Front Walk, Venice
Surfing is one of the best things to do in Venice, and it’s available all year long; a wetsuit will be needed in the winter. But where’s the best spot with the best waves? That would be at Venice Breakwater, conveniently located right by the Venice Beach Skatepark. At Breakwater, you can enjoy consistent medium-sized waves. There are plenty of surf schools and rental shops nearby.
11. Take Selfies at the Venice Art Walls
Ocean Front Walk, Venice
In Venice, there’s no shortage of vibrant, dynamic artwork. One of the best places to see epic art, and take some pictures, is the Venice Art Walls. Between Muscle Beach and Venice skatepark, there are various walls for artists to paint (with a permit, of course).
12. Support Small Business at the Venice Farmers Market
500 Venice Blvd., Venice
Who doesn’t love a good farmers market? One of the best things to do this weekend in LA is visit the Venice Farmers Market, as it's great spot to shop. It takes place every Friday morning. You’ll find an array of handmade goods, locally sourced produce, live music, and so much more. Take a look at the photos from previous weekends to see all the amazing-ness waiting for you.
13. Stay at Hotel Erwin
1697 Pacific Ave, Venice
You can’t stay much closer to the beach than at Hotel Erwin. The hotel is close to Venice Beach's golden sand, making it the perfect choice for a beachy getaway. All the rooms have a cool, funky, modern, but retro feel to them. Even if you don’t decide to stay the night, everyone should experience having a cocktail at its rooftop bar. Add their happy hour to your list of things to do in LA this weekend.
14. Grab a Coffee at Groundwork Coffee Co.
3 Westminster Ave, Venice
If you’re a coffee lover, you need to try Groundwork Coffee Co., where they serve" to-die-for" organic coffee, homemade pastries, and locally sourced wraps, salads, and more. Groundwork Coffee is committed to providing the highest quality coffee beans that are free of pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides (learn more about what makes its coffee so special here). The café is just south of the boardwalk, so grab on of the best coffees in Venice before starting your day.
15. Be Inspired at L.A. Louver Gallery
45 North Venice Boulevard, Venice
Wondering what to do in LA today? Get a taste of the LA, and international, contemporary art scene at the L.A. Louver Gallery. The gallery has been operating since 1975 and consistently cycles through exhibitions featuring established and up-and-coming artists. No art enthusiast should miss out on visiting the gallery.