Top 10 Things to Do in Venice Beach, CA
From Canals to Circus Acts, See the Very Best of this LA Beach Community
Known as the "Coney Island of the Pacific," Venice Beach is one of the best places in California for people watching. Watch circus-worthy performers do their thing on the Boardwalk. Take a stroll along the canals. Scope out unique galleries and live music venues. Use our guide to the top 10 things to do in Venice Beach, CA to make the most of your stay while here. We have handpicked our favorite Venice Beach attractions and well as must-see sights in the surrounding areas for your amusement and amazement.
Venice Canals
Amble along the canals and get lost in the contrasting landscape of Los Angele’s most diverse residential architecture from snug cottages to modern homes to appreciate the unique culture and style of Venice Beach.
Venice Boardwalk
It is one of the best locales in California to see street performers, distinctive vendors and cafés. Bike and roller blade rentals are available.
Venice Pier
The Venice Fishing Pier is found at Brohard Park on the south end of the island of Venice. The 700-foot pier is a great spot for fishing and to end the day taking in a beautiful sunset.
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica pier is a popular 3.5-mile beach that is cleaned and raked daily. The area features the Looff Hippodrome, a National Historic Landmark, complete with a 1920s carousel, a nine-story solar-powered Ferris wheel and a five-story roller coaster. Keep an eye out for Dolphins that can often be sighted playing in the water nearby.
Santa Monica Promenade
Ideally blocked off to traffic so pedestrians can walk the streets and enjoy the sunshine, movies and restaurants, the Third Street Promenade offers a variety of upscale boutiques and stylish sidewalk cafes while various street performers entertain the crowds. In addition to shops and dining, the Promenade hosts an eclectic array of bookshops, antique stores and distinctive memorabilia shops.
Universal Studios
With exciting theme park rides and shows, a real working movie studio and some of Los Angeles’ best shops, restaurants and cinemas at CityWalk, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-have experience for everyone. Take a Studio Tour to see where Hollywood movies are made, experience the all new King Kong 360 3D, and enjoy rides, shows and attractions all at Universal Studios.
Getty Center
The Getty Center features European paintings, drawings, manuscripts, sculpture, decorative arts and European and American photographs. Also famous for its architecture, gardens and views that overlook Los Angeles, the Center is a must-see location that attracts 1.3 million visitors annually.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Six Flags Magic Mountain really delivers for those seeking to satisfy their inner thrill seeker. From a 160-foot loop to the world’s tallest drop ride at 400 feet, you will definitely find excitement here.
The Grove
Well-loved boutiques and restaurants, choreographed fountains, free live concerts in the park and the historic Farmers Market makes the Grove your ultimate stop for shopping, dining and entertainment. The Grove has a great variety of shopping from designer to contemporary fashions.
Hollywood
Hollywood is a world-famous neighborhood in Los Angeles with never-ending places to visit and things to see. From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the Sunset Strip, Los Angeles Farmers Market and the Hollywood Sign, there are abundant attractions to discover during your holiday.
