Venice Canal Historic District

"Over 100 years ago, developer Abbot Kinney had the wild idea to bring Venice to America. While the imported Italian gondoliers never came to be, what remains is an architectural wonderland of unique homes, landscaped gardens and artfully crafted rowboats. Off the beaten path, it's a pocket of Venice that's full of piece and quiet, making it the perfect place to take a stroll and immerse in canal living. Our favorite spot is on the corner of Dell and Howland Canal - look for what might be the most magical tree in all of LA." - The Branding Farm

"A road trip along California’s 101 with brunch spots, botanic gardens, wine tasting, and coastal drives."

"Hidden in plain sight, the canals flow behind adorable bungalows just blocks from Venice Beach. Built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney, it’s not unusual to see herons, egrets, pelicans, and parrots, making it one of the best off-the-beaten-path landmarks in all of L.A. There are a number of bridges perfect for romantic photo ops, and there are enough quiet corners to find your own little patch of bliss. It’s a perfect place to stroll and catch your breath amid the hustle and bustle of the city." - Maxwell Williams

"In the early 1900s, Abbot Kinney resolved to make a “Venice of America” and decided to turn modern-day Venice into a system of canals. While many of the waterways have been filled in during the intervening years, a small patch remains—though they had fallen into disrepair, they were restored in the ’90s and are now lined with some of Venice’s fanciest homes. It’s a totally random yet awesome enclave, and worth a stroll on a nice day."

Great walking post shopping / eating