Located just south of Santa Monica, Venice is technically part of Los Angeles, but has a culture all its own. While it has a checkered past of city neglect, rundown beach bungalows and gang activity, Venice has cleaned up its act. It still retains that beachy, artsy bohemian vibe, but in a more moneyed (and safe) way. The Venice Canals are no exception. Created in 1905 to drain the marshes, the poor construction led to quick deterioration and it wasn't until 1993 that they were fully re-constructed. Now it's a quiet place to stroll while feeding the ducks and peering into the windows of charming million dollar homes. Reminiscent of its namesake in Italy, the Venice Canals have narrow walkways and wooden bridges, perfect for photo opps. It's a far cry from the craziness of the Venice boardwalk.Parking and public transportation at the Venice CanalsThe canals are between Venice Blvd. and Washington Blvd., so you can access via either side and park for free in the surrounding residential area. As with many areas in L.A., however, parking can be scarce. Meters are also available along Washington Blvd, or you can use one of the pay lots near the beach at Venice & Canal or Venice & Pacific. Alternatively the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus Route 1 will take you to Windward Circle and you can walk south from there.Best and worst time go to the Venice CanalsThe best time for house viewing is during the Christmas season when lights twinkle everywhere. Weekends are most crowded, especially in the summer when parking is near impossible due to the close proximity to the beach. If a tranquil experience is what you're after, go on a weekday, preferably in the morning. Just be prepared for furry friends out on their morning walk.Admission to the Venice CanalsThey're free! Just be respectful of the residents. People DO live here.Must see/do at the Venice CanalsYou can walk through the canals in less than an hour, so don't plan a whole day for a visit. It can easily be combined with a trip to the Venice boardwalk and/or the shops and restaurants on Abbot Kinney- both within walking distance although in opposite directions. If you're a fan of the movie Valentine's Day, visit Reed Bennett's blue Victorian house (Reed was played by Ashton Kutcher) at 2604 Grand Canal. His kiss with Jennifer Garner was filmed on the bridge near the house.Other places to visit near the Venice CanalsThe famous Venice boardwalk is about a five-minute walk from the Canals where you can grab a casual bite and beer at Venice Ale House, buy a Venice Beach t-shirt at Morado Fashion, or just walk down to the beach. Abbot Kinney is also a short walk and serves as the upscale, artsy strip of Venice. Shop for art, antiques and vintage clothing or snag a pair of TOMS shoes at their flagship store. For dinner, check out Gjelina or The Tasting Kitchen, reservations recommended. Hal's Bar and Grill is also a good spot for live jazz on Sunday and Monday nights.Insider tip for visitors to the Venice CanalsAbbot Kinney First Fridays is held the first Friday of every month. Visit the canals in the morning, the boardwalk during the day and Abbot Kinney at night for their First Friday festivities which run from 6pm-10pm. Food trucks abound while shops and galleries stay open late, many serving wine. It's a great way to sample the best of Venice- including the eclectic L.A. food truck scene. Parking can be insane, so start early and secure your spot near the canals.Author's bio: Shelley Graner is a Los Angeles native, food lover and travel writer who has visited more than 30 countries. She writes for various travel blogs, including her own.