Travel Guide

Lax Parking and Venice Canals

Have you always been dreaming of going to Venice, Italy? Why not get a little taste of Italy at the Venice Canals! The only difference is that this charming community is located in Los Angeles, California! The original 16 miles of the Venice Canals were dug in 1904 under the direction of Abbot Kinney and today, only 6 miles of the canals remain. You will find many upscale homes located near the canal, including those of Julia Roberts, Dennis Hopper and Viggo Mortinesen! It is time to take a break from the fast paced city life of Los Angeles with the hectic LAX parking and take a stroll along these beautiful and historical canals!

History

Before tired LAX parking customers head over to the Venice Canals for a relaxing retreat, here is a brief history to read up on. Originally constructed to imitate the canals in Venice, Italy, these beautiful canals were dug in 1904 under the direction of Abbot Kinney. Not too long after its grand opening was on July 4th, 1905 the automobile gained popularity and by 1929, the majority of the canals were filled in and converted to roads. During the 1960's the Venice Canals were home to beatniks and artists which soon gave way to the hippies. The 1970's gave way to the Linnie Canal Downwind Boat Races where contestants had 2 hours to build their boats and sail down the canal afterwards. As real estate prices increased in the late 1970's, affluent homeowners replaced the hippies as the houses along the canal were restored and remodeled. Today the Venice Canals is home to some of the most beautiful houses on LA's west side.

Restaurants near the Venice Canals

LAX parking customers will be pleased to know that there are lots of great places to eat in Venice! In this quaint upscale neighborhood, there is much to explore.

Joe's

(1023 Abbot Kinney Boulevard)
If you are craving some great Californian/French food, come to this quiet, not overly crowded restaurant! The waiters will let you sample the wine before ordering and the chef might even come over to your table and say hello! Fixed-priced dinners range from $50-$70 per person.

La Cabana

(738 Rose Ave.)
Hola! Come to this Mexican restaurant for great food in large qualities! Their delicious burritos starting at $4 are a must try!

Abbot's Habit

(1401 Abbot Kinney Boulevard)
This tiny coffeehouse is a social hangout for many locals and their dogs! Although the hippie staff are not as efficient as the Starbucks machine, the laid back atmosphere makes up for everything! There is also a great outdoor patio with a great view!

Piccolo Ristorante Italiano

(5 Dudley Ave.)
What's better than dining in an authentic Italian restaurant in Venice, California? The co-owners Antonia Mure and Stefano De Lorenzo are more than welcoming and you will love the warm atmosphere with chatty customers, frenzied cooks, and Italian music! The pasta is also made in-house, so you will be guaranteed freshness!

Hotels around Venice Canals

Perhaps you have gotten carried away with exploring the Venice Canals and the surrounding community and want to get a good night sleep before heading back to the LAX parking lot and continuing with your adventures. Here are some great hotels to stay at.

Courtyard by Marriott Marina del Rey

(13480 Maxella Ave, (310) 822-8555)
Adjacent to the Villa Marina Market place, this 5 story hotel surrounds an open courtyard that is complete with a swimming pool, whirlpool spa and a sundeck. There are also 270 contemporary guest rooms where you will find mirrored wardrobes, desks with ergonomic chairs and much more!

The Inn at Venice Beach

(327 Washington Boulevard, (800) 828-0688)
Located one block from Venice Beach Boardwalk, this hotel is also adjacent from the world's largest man made yacht!

Venice Beach Hotel/Hostel

(1515 Pacific Ave. (310) 452-3052)
Are you on a budget? Perhaps you are looking for cheaper accommodation! Come to this beautiful Hotel/Hostel where you can choose between private and shared rooms, as well as housekeeping apartments. Free internet access is available.

Location

LAX parking customers can find the Venice Canals between Venice and Washington Boulevards.