Venice is known for its quirky style and lively personality.
Since it was founded in the early 1900s, Venice has become the epitome of Southern California living. Here, both residents and visitors enjoy a myriad of things to do—bars, restaurants, shopping, parks, beaches, and local shops. With so much to see beyond the boardwalk, we’ve pulled together a list of some of the best-hidden gems in this neighborhood.
Stroll Through the Venice Canals
Traveling to Europe might be out of the question at the moment, but this Venice gem will make you feel like you’re strolling through the streets of Italy. The Venice Canal Historic District was built in 1905 and has since become a landmark of this hustling and bustling coastal city. Located right off 25th Street in Venice, this charming neighborhood is lined with four canals. The picturesque setting mirrors the canals found in Venice, Italy. Today, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the canals and fully embrace the laid-back California lifestyle.
Celebrate a Night out at Felix Trattoria
After you’ve fully explored the Venice Canals, why not elevate your Italian-like experience by indulging in some heavenly pasta? Nestled on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Felix Trattoria is still serving up its gourmet handmade pasta. Here, Chef Evan Funke makes his orecchiette, rigatoni, pappardelle (and everything in-between) in the center of the restaurant in a glass-enclosed, air-conditioned space. Enjoy watching the art of pasta-making as you dine on your delicately-made pasta. With a sophisticated and posh atmosphere, Felix Trattoria offers a culinary experience unlike any other in Venice. Make sure to book your reservations plenty of time in advance!
Enjoy Drinks on the Rooftop of Hotel Erwin
The rooftop at Hotel Erwin is the quintessential essence of Southern California living. Located next to the sand, this popular spot offers the best of California sunsets and picturesque 360-degree views of the city. Enjoy craft cocktails, cold beer, and a variety of quick bites. Their menu consists of street tacos (a Southern California staple), slides, mezze plates, and fresh guacamole. Whether you’re celebrating a night out with friends, a date, or are simply stepping out for a Tuesday night, Hotel Erwin is the only rooftop bar in Venice. Chic, memorable, and inviting are just a few words to describe this rooftop experience.
Go On a Tour of Venice Murals
Venice is known for its colorful personality, and the numerous murals across the city are a great example of that. If you’re up for an adventure, consider going on a self-guided mural and street art tour. To start this endeavor, head over to Lincoln Boulevard, where you will find an assortment of murals, such as a rose mural on Helen’s Cycles. After that, check out the giant butterfly wings on the side of Baby Blues BBQ—a great photo op! If you’re hungry after, pop right into Baby Blues for an authentic Southern BBQ experience.
Enjoy Breakfast for Dinner at Nighthawk
Breakfast for dinner can be a guilty pleasure. If this describes you, then we’ve got the spot for you to check out. Nighthawk: Breakfast Bar is known for its creative spin on breakfast-themed fare and cocktails. Their menu includes an assortment of original items, such as breakfast burgers, Benedict fries, candied bacon and tots, and homemade brandy-infused French toast. The cocktail list is equally as intriguing—spiked cereal milk, Banh Michelada, and alcoholic coffee drinks. Their drink and food menu is made using fresh, local ingredients by a team of talented chefs. The casual environment makes it a great place to enjoy a unique night out with friends.
Check Out the Oldest Bar in Venice
Del Monte is unique for a lot of reasons. This speakeasy was established in 1915 by an Italian immigrant, Cesar Menotti, and remains the oldest bar in Venice. Del Monte is also one of the oldest bars in the entirety of Los Angeles. Located near the Venice Pier, this vintage bar gives customers a taste of the olden days. Stop by and enjoy craft cocktails and live music. Happy hour takes place between 5 PM to 8 PM on weekdays. With patio seating available, you can safely enjoy a night out.
Be Inspired at the Mosaic Tile House
If you’re looking for something fun to do, head on over to the Mosaic Tile House! This unique home—originally built in the 1940s—is decked inside and out with colorful tiles and splintered -glass mosaics. This colorful display, the work of a husband and wife duo, beams with creativity and innovation. Nearly every inch of this 6,000-square-foot lot around the house, in addition to the walls and the majority of the interior, is decked out with every kind of bold and colorful item imaginable. To guarantee your experience, make sure to reserve your ticket in advance.
Fuel Up for the Day at Menotti’s Coffee Stop
There’s little more energizing than fueling up with a perfectly prepared cup of coffee—and you can find that at Menotti’s Coffee Stop. Located in the heart of Downtown Venice, Menotti’s has been serving up their delicious cups of coffee since 2013. Enjoy views of the boardwalk and vinyl records playing in the background as you sip your coffee in the outdoor seating. With all the drinks carefully prepared by latte art award-winning baristas, Menotti’s aims to give you the best experience in the area.
Give Surfing a Go
Venice is known for its stellar waves, so it’s no surprise that this town is popular with surfers. Surfing is a great way to get a workout while enjoying the outdoors. If you’re interested in booking a Venice Beach surf lesson, head over to Learn to Surf LA. This Los Angeles-based surf school has helped thousands catch their first wave since opening in 2002. If you’re a beginner, don’t worry! The knowledgeable instructors will be there to guide you through every step of the learning process. What are you waiting for?
Join a Yoga Class
Practicing yoga comes with a plethora of benefits, from improving flexibility, reducing blood pressure, and strengthening and toning your muscles (just to name a few!). Love Yoga, located in Downtown Venice, is a gem that is worth checking out. Whether you are new to yoga or consider yourself an experienced yogi, this Venice studio has a wide range of classes and varying skill sets available. Using Taoist theory, Love Yoga is all about improving your mental and physical well-being. Check out their schedule to select a class that works best for you. You even have the option to choose to participate in a class from the comfort of your home or with an oceanfront view. So why not stop by Yoga Love and start experiencing the mental and physical benefits that come along with practicing yoga?
Flip Through Pages at Small World Books
Since being founded in 1969, Small World Books has become a staple of Venice. Small World Books seeks to provide quality literature, making it well-loved by both residents and visitors alike. This independent bookstore, located on Ocean Front Walk, offers a plethora of literature— ranging from novels to poetry volumes and magazines. Be sure to keep an eye out for the frequent events that take place here, such as signings. If you can’t find something that you’re looking for, knowledgeable and helpful staff members are eager to assist you.
Shop ‘til You Drop at Abbot Kinney
If you’re looking for a place to wine and dine or go on a shopping spree, then Abbot Kinney is the place for you. This acclaimed Los Angeles boulevard is a mile-long road packed with restaurants, shops, and galleries. Unique local goods and intentionally known brands can be found on this palm-tree-lined street. With so much to offer and awe over, it’s no wonder that GQ magazine called Abbot Kinney “The coolest block in America”. This exciting boulevard is sure to have something for everyone.
Embark on Legends Beach Bike Tour
Biking is a great way to explore a new city while simultaneously covering a lot of ground. Legends Beach Bike Tour is the perfect way to soak up the sunshine while exploring Venice and surrounding areas. Starting at the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, this tour takes you along the boardwalk through Venice, making stops at Muscle Beach and the Venice Canals. You will also have the chance to learn about the history of the California Gold Coast while embarking on this riding adventure.
If you’re interested in exploring homes for sale in Venice, California, contact Scott Price today. Scott serves a wide range of neighborhoods and is passionate about helping clients find their dream home. His expertise will help you find your dream home in Los Angeles.
