Downtown Venice, California

Upon check-in, slip the desk agent a tip and ask for the best room they can find at your current booked rate. Often times a quick $10 or $20 bill can go a long way towards the mood of the person who directly decides where you lay your head for the night.

Policies vary on the availability of pet friendly rooms to it is wise to be open, honest and upfront during the booking process. You may find yourself kicked out or even paying a large deposit if you are not in a pet-friendly hotel and bring one anyway. New ADA laws are fuzzy though as service animals are not required to be documented and proprietors are legally not allowed to ask if the animal is a pet vs. a service animal.

Call ahead to make sure your reservation is still active and rebook if there are any price drops or changes in number of people staying with you. Another cost saving tips is to bundle the stay with airport parking and shuttle to avoid hefty fees.

Venice has so many great reasons to shop downtown as local merchants have come together to offer a wide selection of artisan gifts and foods that you are sure to find something for everyone on your shopping list of gifts. Shopping options are plentiful and all inventory is hand selected by the shop owner and then yourself so you are sure to find something special that has your style and likes in mind.

Venice is a great place to rent a bike and take it for a ride around downtown. There are many bike shops that sell bike and accessories as well as provide service and tuning on your ride. Don't forget your helmet and other protective gear such as reflective gear, headlight and horn.

Venice can warm you up on a cloudy day or simply offer your daily perk by visiting your local coffee shop. Quality, purity and punch are targeted with coffee beans curated globally and locally roasted while being served fresh as it is made right in front of you. Order up!