Venice Canals — Attraction in Los Angeles

Such beautiful place!The Venice Canals in Los Angeles are a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. Originally built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney as part of his vision to recreate the look and feel of Venice, Italy, the canals are a network of serene waterways surrounded by charming homes and lush greenery. While the original canal system was much larger, only a portion remains today, preserved as a historic district and beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Walking along the Venice Canals is like stepping into another world. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with narrow footbridges that cross over the canals, providing picturesque views of the water and the beautifully maintained homes that line the banks. Each house has its unique charm, often with vibrant gardens, quaint patios, and small boats docked alongside, adding to the idyllic atmosphere.

The canals are also home to various wildlife, including ducks and other waterfowl, which adds to the sense of tranquility. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, photography, or simply relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the light reflects off the water, creating a serene and romantic ambiance.

While the Venice Canals are quieter and less touristy compared to nearby Venice Beach, they offer a unique experience that captures a different side of Los Angeles—one that is calm, scenic, and full of character. It's an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a slice of history and nature in the heart...

The canals are roughly bounded by Eastern Court on the east, Court A on the south, Strongs Drive on the west, and Court E on the north. There are four east-west canals (Carroll Canal, Linnie Canal, Howland Canal, and Sherman Canal) and two north-south canals (Eastern Canal and Grand Canal). The lit canals with gondoliers and arched bridges drew widespread publicity and helped sell lots in the development.

By the 1920s already well into the age of the automobile as cars were quickly and increasingly gaining popularity the canals were viewed by many as outdated, and as a result a number of canals of the original network were filled in 1929 to make room for paved roads. By 1940, the remaining canals had fallen into disrepair, and the sidewalks were condemned by the city.[2] The canal district remained in poor condition for more than 40 years, as numerous proposals to renovate the canals failed due to lack of funding, environmental concerns, and disputes as to who should bear the financial responsibility. The canals were finally renovated in 1992, with the canals being drained and new sidewalks and walls being built. The canals re-opened in 1993 and have become a desirable and expensive residential section...

The Venice Canals are within a very nice upscale residential community that appeals to visitors! As part of the original namesake community in the Venice District of Los Angeles, the area has been a tourist attraction. Although developer Abbot Kinney intended the canals to be part of his Venice of America Project, it’s been kept residential low key with tourism, unlike the now commercialized and crowded Venice Beach nearby. It was built with a series of straight canals where residents can keep mini watercraft next to their homes and float around the block. Meanwhile, visitors can publicly view the separate canals as pedestrians via sidewalks from Washington Blvd. Dell Street crosses four rectangular islands of the canals between Washington Blvd and S. Venice Blvd. Here, van and smaller sized vehicles may cross the narrow bridges. Temporary public parking is available along Dell Street. Washington Blvd and S. Venice Blvd has metered street parking available. Being primarily residential, the canal area has no public restrooms. There’s a corner market store at Washington Blvd and Dell Ave. Restaurants are also nearby along...