Whisk Yourself Away To The Venice Canals Right In Southern California
The Venice Canal Historic District in California offers a picturesque and historic experience reminiscent of Venice, Italy, with canals, bridges, and gondola rides.
Near Venice Beach, right off 25th street, you’ll find a historic gem that’s reminiscent of the canals found in Venice, Italy. The Venice Canal Historic District was built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney, who was best known for creating "Venice of America" in Los Angeles. His project brought the beauty and architecture of Venice’s canals right to the coastal town of Southern California for us all to enjoy.
The historic district has four canals lined by gorgeous waterfront properties and bridges that connect the two sides.
Have you ever heard of the Venice Canal Historic District? It could be easy to miss if you don’t know the location. Who knew that you could experience a little bit of Venice in California? It’s just the mini-European escape you’ve been looking for. To learn more about this historical landmark, visit its Facebook page.
Here in Southern California — where we spend so much time in our cars, even when we're on vacation — walkable destinations, such as San Diego’s massive Liberty Station, are rare but oh-so-appealing. This unique destination in one of the country’s most family-friendly cities brings together the past, the present, and the future of San Diego. Aimed at inspiring the community and becoming San Diego’s “town square,” the historic 360-acre property has been transformed from a military center into a vibrant community hub of shopping and dining, arts and entertainment, and much more.
Liberty Station was founded in 1923 as the Naval Training Center (NTC). It served as a significant military resource through World War II and the Cold War, eventually closing in 1997. The Spanish Colonial Revival architecture remains, providing a unique space and an anchor to the city’s past.
The present offers visitors abundant opportunities to explore history, slow down and relax, and create new memories. Wander through Liberty Station’s broad plazas and you’ll find endless things to see, do, and, of course, eat. In the Arts District, you can discover local artists at galleries and exhibitions, watch live performances like dance and improv, enjoy music concerts, and express your creative side at workshops and studios. Shop for hand-made, artisan, and vintage goods at boutique shops like Sea Hive Station.
There are activities and adventures for every age and interest at Liberty Station. If you love the water, take advantage of fun activities like paddleboarding or even waterfront yoga. Challenge friends or family members to a round of mini-golf at The Loma Club or let the kids burn off some energy with gymnastics or ninja training at G3Kids. Or grab a bucket of buttery popcorn and settle into a luxury recliner at The Lot for a feature film. If you’re a history buff, visit the USS Recruit or take an 8,500-step walking tour to get a glimpse into the NTC’s past and learn some fascinating stories.
When (not if) you work up an appetite, get ready for some tough decisions, as there are over 20 diverse restaurants ranging from sushi to pizza to fine dining, and everything in between. You’ll even find cool dining attractions like the iconic 50s-style Corvette Diner with its poodle skirt-wearing waitresses, Rock n’ Roll vibe, Gamer’s Garage Arcade, and mouthwatering burgers, shakes, and fries.
And let’s not forget about Liberty Public Market, a true destination within a destination. Located within Liberty Station’s oldest barrack that housed San Diego’s Naval Training Camp, this marketplace could be a day trip in itself. It is home to restaurants, bars, coffee and bakeries, candy and popcorn boutiques, and a host of specialty shops selling soaps, olive oils, jewelry, records, and more.
Of course, Liberty Station is also a place to relax and unwind. Some 48 acres of scenic parkland are perfect for leisurely picnics, long walks, enjoying some family downtime, and catching gorgeous sunsets. You could spend days (or longer!) discovering all that this place has to offer. Want to make a weekend of it? Once again, you don’t need a car. Stay right in Liberty Station near the water’s edge at the beautiful Courtyard Hotel.
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Have you had the chance to explore San Diego’s incredible walkable destination? Learn more and plan your trip by visiting the Liberty Station website. And while you’re here, check out another awesome piece of San Diego history you can walk through — Cabrillo Bridge!
CaliBunga, the new waterpark replacing Raging Waters at Lake Cunningham Park in San Jose, recently opened amid a heatwave, providing Bay Area residents with a fun place to cool down. This Northern California waterpark features a mix of new and revamped attractions, catering to all ages and thrill levels.
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For younger visitors, there are kid-friendly zones like Pirates Cove and Wacky Water Works. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the exhilarating Dragon’s Den, Serpentine Slides, Barracuda Blaster, and Shotgun Falls.
There are four types of cabanas located in various areas of the park. Rent one near the attractions you want to enjoy.
Raging Waters had been a popular destination at Lake Cunningham Park for nearly 40 years when the operator unexpectedly announced last September it was ending its lease a year early.
In February, the city council approved California Dreamin’ Entertainment to take over the city-owned water park on a short-term basis through September 2025, with options for extensions to allow time to find a long-term operator. The park officially reopened as CaliBunga Waterpark on July 4, 2024.
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While some fans of Raging Waters have noted that CaliBunga retains many features of the old park, with updated rides and new food options, the response so far has been mixed.
Many reviewers have enjoyed their visits, appreciating the improvements, while others have voiced criticisms. CaliBunga's management has been responsive to online feedback and is committed to enhancing the visitor experience.
We think it’s worth a visit, especially now that some time has passed since its opening, giving the park a chance to smooth out any initial kinks.
Raging Waters was a blast for so many NorCal kids and their families, and it’s likely that CaliBunga will become the place where new summertime memories are made as well.
Do you live near this Northern California waterpark? Lucky you! If not, plan a road trip to San Jose to spend a day enjoying the wave pool and water slides at CaliBunga Waterpark. Tell us, when was the last time you went to a waterpark?
