Abbot Kinney

While Venice’s claim to fame may be its artsy beach culture, from Dogtown to the Venice Boardwalk, Abbot Kinney Boulevard, recently dubbed the “Coolest Block in America” by GQ magazine, is home to some of LA’s best boutiques, galleries, coffee shops, restaurants and bars. Abbot Kinney is not just about shopping it is about lifestyle and people watching. A very private boutique hotel is planned in the near future.

The stretch of Abbot Kinney Boulevard between Venice Boulevard and Main Street is home to over 20 restaurants … ranging from from casual coffee shops to fine gourmet eateries. It seems like new ones pop up almost weekly. Reservations are advised/required for many of the popular spots.

Many internationally-know boutiques have opened on the boulevard along with a few flagship stores looking to capture the Venice vibe. Still remaining are some of the old favorites.

Venice’s art influence is visible in the many murals and art projects that line the street.

The annual Abbot Kinney Festival is held each year on the last Sunday in September …  a day of fun, food and entertainment with a convivial spirit.

On many summer Saturdays Artists & Fleas holds a swap-meet style event at the Westminster Elementary School with a line-up of art, design and vintage merchants.

First Fridays on Abbot Kinney is a fun, food truck focused event with select shops open late, happy hours at select restaurants and special events in popup locations that vary each month.