A Guide to the Best Free Activities in LA’s Eclectic Beach Town
Venice Beach is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in Los Angeles, known for its laid-back atmosphere, eclectic shops, and street performers. While there are plenty of paid attractions in Venice Beach, there are also a number of free things to do that are just as enjoyable.
1. Take a walk through the Venice Canals
The Venice Canals are a hidden gem in Venice Beach. They are a series of canals that were built in the early 1900s and are now lined with beautiful homes and gardens. Visitors can take a walk or bike ride through the canals and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The Canals are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk. The canals are lined with colorful homes and gardens, and there are often ducks and geese swimming in the water. You can also see people fishing from the bridges that cross the canals.
If you’re lucky, you might even see a celebrity or two living in one of the canals. The Venice Canals are a popular spot for celebrities to live because they offer privacy and security.
The Venice Canals are a great place to take a romantic walk or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon. It’s a free and unique way to experience Venice Beach.
Hours: Open 24 hours a day though be mindful of residents living in the area
2. People-watch on the Venice Beach Boardwalk
The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a must-see for any visitor to the neighborhood. It is a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. There is always something to see and do on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, from watching the skateboarders at the Venice Beach Skate Park to listening to live music at one of the many outdoor cafes.
One of the best things to do on the Venice Beach Boardwalk is simply to people-watch. There are people from all walks of life on the boardwalk, from tourists to locals to street performers. You never know what you’re going to see, which is part of the fun.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even join in on the fun by trying your hand at some of the street performers’ acts. There are jugglers, magicians, musicians, and all sorts of other performers on the boardwalk. You can also try your luck at the penny arcade or play some arcade games.
The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a great place to spend a day or even just an afternoon. It’s a fun and free way to experience the unique culture of Venice Beach.
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
3. Take a selfie with the Muscle Beach sign
Muscle Beach is a public outdoor gym located on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. It is a popular spot for bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts. Muscle Beach is also a popular tourist destination, and visitors can often see people taking selfies with the Muscle Beach sign.
The Muscle Beach sign is a iconic landmark in Venice Beach. It is a great photo opportunity for visitors of all ages. The sign is also a popular spot for people-watching.
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
4. Visit the Venice Beach Pier
The Venice Beach Pier is a popular tourist destination. The pier features a variety of shops, restaurants, and amusement rides. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the pier.
The Venice Beach Pier is a great place to spend a day with family and friends. Visitors can enjoy the rides, play games, and shop for souvenirs. The pier is also a great place to watch the sunset.
For more information on the Venice Beach Pier including cost or fishing equipment rentals and other information please click here.
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
5. Attend a free event at the Venice Beach Community Center
The Venice Beach Community Center hosts a variety of free events throughout the year. These events include concerts, workshops, and classes. Visitors can check the community center’s website for a list of upcoming events.
The Venice Beach Community Center is a great place to learn new skills or simply enjoy some free entertainment. The center offers a variety of classes, including yoga, dance, and cooking. The center also hosts concerts and other events on a regular basis.
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9am – 8pm, Saturday: 9am – 5pm, Sunday: Closed
6. Visit the Venice Beach Museum of Contemporary Art
Venice Beach Museum of Contemporary Art
The Venice Beach Museum of Contemporary Art (VBMA) is a free museum that showcases the work of emerging and established contemporary artists. The VBMA has a rotating exhibition schedule, so visitors can always see something new.
The VBMA is a great place to experience contemporary art. The museum is small, but it is well-curated and the exhibits are always interesting. The VBMA is also a great place to learn about contemporary art.
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 12pm – 6pm
7. Visit the Venice Beach Mural Walls
The Venice Beach Mural Walls are a collection of murals that line the walls of a building on Windward Avenue. The murals are created by local artists and cover a variety of topics, from social commentary to abstract art. Visitors can take a walk down Windward Avenue and admire the murals.
The mural is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Venice Beach. The murals often depict stories about the people and places of Venice Beach.
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
8. Visit the Venice Beach Farmers Market
The Venice Beach Farmers Market is held every Sunday from 9am to 2pm. The market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, and other local goods. Visitors can also enjoy live music and food trucks at the market.
The Farmers Market is a great place to find fresh and local produce. The vendors at the market sell everything from fruits and vegetables to meat and cheese.
The Market is also a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. The vendors at the market sell everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing.
If you’re looking for a healthy and affordable meal, be sure to check out the Venice Beach Farmers Market. There are a variety of food trucks at the market that sell everything from tacos to sandwiches to ice cream.
For more information on the farmers market visit their webpage here.
Hours: Sunday 9am to 2pm
9. Watch a Venice Beach Sunset
The Venice Beach sunset is one of the best in he world. Take a moment at the end of the day to catch it. Enjoy a glass a wine or a beer on he beach as the day ends and your night life begins.
Hours: At dusk
