When's the last time you went on a walking tour that was accompanied by comedic songbirds and a melodica? A few weekends ago, I had the pleasure of taking Mojo Maps Expedition Co.'s interactive walking tour of Venice Beach. Two knowledgable and talented tour guides took us on an adventure through Venice Beach's historical landscape -- through Muscle Beach, the Dogtown skaters, and the Beat Poets, all the way back to the neighborhood's birth era of Abbot Kinney and his "Venice of America". I was impressed by founder Chris Eng's passion for Los Angeles and his desire to provide Angelenos with an immersive adventure and the opportunity to step out of their comfort zone, right in their own city. (LA's newcomers and tourists are welcome to join in the fun too, of course!) Chris and his crew are invested in creating an evocative, visceral experience for people that goes far beyond historical dates and events. During the Venice Land tour, we walked leisurely for about 2.5 hours as the tour guides regaled us with stories from every period in Venice Beach's history through comedy, music, and improvisation. Participants were constantly engaged through activities like spray painting (yay for public defacement!), sing-alongs, and an even impromptu "bathing beauty" pageant as a shout-out to Venice Beach of the Roaring 20s. It might be a tour more suitable for extroverts but this semi-introvert was thoroughly entertained. If you have kids, I would say the tour would be great for 10-year-olds and older. There's nothing overtly racy or inappropriate -- I just think the tour would be better appreciated by slightly older kiddos. read more

Mojo Maps Expedition - When's the last time you went on a walking tour that was accompanied by comedic songbirds and a melodica? - Walking Tours Near Me - Venice, California

I picked the Venice-Land tour as a fun activity to do with my mom who was visiting from out of town. We had a BLAST! The tour immediately starts off with a song, dance and music which sets the tone for the rest of the day. Kristen and Kimberly were great! They are true performers. Their quirky voices and superb acting combined with a live harmonica player, quickly transforms you back to historic 1920's Venice. As we walked through out the various parts of Venice (canals, muscle beach, and boardwalk) the tour guides pointed out murals, statues, and hidden artifacts that I've seen a dozen times but never gave much thought to, but now know the entire history behind each item. What really set this tour apart from other walking tours I've done before are the group improv games played to bring to life some of the history. Normally I'm a pretty shy person but Kristen did a great job encouraging everyone to participate where there are no right answers! From performing our own impromptu 1920 Beauty Contest to becoming Arnold Schwarzenegger's product development team.... I don't think I have ever laughed so much! This was a great experience and I would highly recommend the tour to anyone looking for a fun afternoon in Venice! read more

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I went with my boyfriend to TWO different MojoMaps tours. We were looking for a romantic and fun way to get to know each other so we did the tour of the arts district downtown. We had so much fun we didn't want it to end. We got to go to the LA river where they filmed Grease, rock climb, bike everywhere, get a free tour of Angel City Brewery, and many other things. We had so much fun, when we heard there was a new tour of Venice, we had to do that one. We EQUALLY loved the Venice tour! We actually learned about how Venice was created and how it became how it is. The tour was led by the founder of MojoMaps who is wicked cool, but also led by an improv comedy actor who made the whole thing fun on another level! My boyfriend and I got to be silly together while exploring museums, the beach, muscle beach, the graffiti, doing our own graffiti!!!!, and many more things. So much fun, I highly recommend it with a friend or for a double date! read more

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Highly interactive, fun, low key way to learn about Venice Beach, even for locals. Add your graffiti tag to a local monument, win a photo contest to capture the heart and soul of VB; see the original dream for Venice Beach, and audition for a taking picture. This is new and fresh, not a long running retread. read more

We spray painted, got serenaded by a roaming piano player and played with comedians This is a very playful and interactive tour experience. They use improv comedians who weave together a story linking the places and people from Venice and invite you to interact and play with them along the way. It's like walking into a movie that you can interact with / become a part of. My favorite part was discovering the canals accompanied by a live piano player who played on a harmonica-like piano instrument (something I had never seen before). It was like walking to your own Italian soundtrack! Highly recommend for couples / friends / team groups looking for something fun and different to do this weekend! read more

There's no shortage of activities to do in the area, but after a while, it's easy to get jaded and bored. Mojo Maps offers something truly special and unique unlike anything I've ever seen... a strange hybrid of a walking tour mixed with improv and music is the only way I can think to describe it, but that does not do it justice in the least. The tour guides are beyond talented and made the experience wildly memorable. I've spent a lot of time in Venice before, but I'll never look at it the same again. If they offer any other tours, I'm absolutely signing up. read more

The Mojo Maps Veniceland tour was an experience like no other I've ever been on before. When the flier said "interactive" I wasn't sure what that would entail and at first I was skeptical. The tour unfolded into an immersive Venice experience! As a native Westside resident for the past 20 years, I've never lived east of the 405 and I wasn't sure if there was anything else that I could learn about my city but I ended up learning a lot from this tour. I was most inspired by the over arching theme of the culture of Venice as we know it having emerged from people who were told "no, you're crazy" and going forth with their dreams anyway despite the naysayers. Not only did I learn a lot, but I also was surprised at how much I enjoyed being part of the interactive action. There were games, prizes and contests, and every detail seemed to be thoroughly thought out. The guides/actors were really funny. In the end, I bonded with the friends that I brought with me and also with new friends that we'd made. It was like summer camp! I would definitely recommend this fun and hilarious tour to people who are down to have a good time. read more

The Mojo Maps Venice Land tour was inspiring, invigorating and, most of all, really fun! The tour gave me the opportunity to not only learn more about Venice's fascinating and little-known history in an interactive way, but it also challenged me to step out of my usual routine and learn things about myself. It's really unlike any other tour experience in all the right ways and is great for locals and visitors alike. Led by a knowledgeable tour guide, you discover the neighborhood's journey from marshland to the internationally-inspired 'Coney Island of the Pacific' to a bohemian art enclave to Muscle Beach and beyond. But more than just hearing cool stories, you get to actively participate through improv (don't worry, no experience necessary and totally fun), and even get the chance to 'flex' your skills and leave your mark on the Venice Art Walls. Even if you're feeling a bit shy or don't know the rest of the group, the guide helps create a supportive vibe. Soon you'll all be laughing together and likely walk away with new friends. The activities offer a chance to connect with the other tour guests, and even your own friends and loved ones that join, in a way that is deeper, more meaningful and more playful than a typical social interaction. I highly recommend the tour to anyone looking for a fun afternoon of getting to know more about the city and yourself, while making some new friends at the same time. What are you waiting for? Get on it. *In the interest of full disclosure: I helped to develop and lead the Arts District tour for Mojo Maps, but was not involved in creating Venice Land. But with that in mind, this tour was so much fun to experience as a guest and carries the spirit of Mojo Maps in such a wonderful way. read more

In a word: charming! I'm so, so glad I participated in this tour. It is exactly my cup of tea - discovering the undiscovered in an urban environment - but since having a kiddo I don't get out as often as I used to. In fact the only way I was able to get to participate in this was bringing my son, who is 4, and is probably a bit too young for the experience but actually had a really good time. He loves the beach, he got to use spray paint for the first time ever, and right around the time when he might have been flagging... we made a stop at a park with a playground, so he got to go on the slide and play with the musical features there, in addition to smiling and enjoying the grown-ups behaving foolishly. The highlights of the experience to me were probably 1) the musician, who accompanies you for the duration, and completely enhances the mood and atmosphere. He is scoring your whole experience on melodica and accordion: wonderful! and 2) walking the Venice canals. I've been living in LA for 17 years and I've written and produced scavenger hunts in the Venice area, and yet never had walked the canals before. They are still beautiful. I recommend it, and this tour is the best way to see them. You may be called upon to play a theater game or do a little bit of acting out on this tour, so wallflowers be advised. I also want to praise Kristen and Lindsey, our hosts, who were funny and kept things moving and kept things light. Great songs, great singing voices. It was funny, it was surprising, it encapsulated the spirit of Venice, it was, in a word, utterly charming. (I know that's two words.) read more

What a delightful, insanely fun and opening experience! I walked away full of inspiration and joy. I made some incredible friends for life. I've spent so many years in Venice and learned more about it in those few hours than ever before. We got to learn, play, explore, express.. They delivered. I can't tell you much more without running all the surprises in store for you.. Do it! We need more of this in our daily walk. read more

Mojo Maps Expedition - Walking Tours Near Me - Venice, California

There were 3 hosts (improve actors) that would sing and dance while informing you of Venice's rich history. We explored canals, museums, spray painted walls, with interactive games sprinkled along the way. It was so much fun getting to know everyone. This is not even a tour. It's the "Mojo Maps" experience... a challenge to get you out of your comfort zone and try something new. I highly recommend it read more

This is unlike any other tour you'll go on. Mojo Maps does an awesome job at sharing interesting information and providing an amazing experience. If you love history, comedy, and fun activities then this tour is just for you! You'll be engaged and intrigued the whole time. I've done two tours (LA Arts District & Vencieland). Each tour was unique in its own way, yet both still were the same level of excitement and enjoyment. The guides were hilarious, caring, and committed individuals. They really did everything they could to make sure everyone's experience was great and that you would leave powerfully moved and inspired. I could go on about all the reasons why you should try one out, but just find out for yourself. You will not be disappointed. You'll want to do more! No other tour will leave you with fun memories, new friends, and a fresh perspective on the area, yourself, and life. read more

They call Veniceland a "tour" but that doesn't really cover it. It is really something totally new and different. A combination of history and improv, with a focus on creativity and entrepreneurship the Mojo guides knowledge is deep and unique. Combining this with activities is what takes the experience to the next level. My favorite part was spray painting at Venice Beach, but I won't spoil the other activities. I went on the tour by myself, not knowing anyone, and the format made it really easy to connect and meet other people. I can only imagine how much it would strengthen relationships if I went with a group of friends. It is ideal for groups looking for something new and to bond. Overall an amazing time and I really look forward to trying their next experience. A must do for locals and tourists. Check it out! read more

This was the coolest experience I've had in LA so far. The Venice tour was very informative, interesting, and well researched. I learned a lot about the history behind the culture that defines this artistic neighborhood. Beyond being informative, the tour really puts you in the drivers seat in a way that's hard to describe. I would have never expected to leave a graffiti tag or re-enact an Arnold moment. The Mojo tour is a very unique experience with an incredible vision that's hard to find anywhere else. I highly recommend it and looking forward to going to more events! read more

Mojo Maps presents an innovative and unique way to discover your reality and yourself. More than just an educational, historical tour, Mojo Maps let's you in on the secrets of innovation, creativity and being your true self, as demonstrated by Abbott Kinney and other figures and ideas that shaped the areas of LA that you are exploring. Putting your self-consciousness aside, you are thrust into experiential group activities and challenges that allow you to put your inner-child hat on, let go and have fun! There is an element of surprise and discovery that remains with you from beginning to end and beyond. Mojo Maps tours challenge you to step outside of your day-to-day existence and experience a moment in time of pure creativity and wonder. I'll be returning to Veniceland for sure! read more

I took the Journey to Venice Land tour and had a blast! I love any activity that gets me out in the sunshine, gets me some exercise, and teaches me something; this tour did all that, with a hefty dose of improv and performance art to make it all the more memorable. I took my 11 year old little sister who was shy at first, but really came out of her shell, emboldened by the group's positive energy. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a different way to see the city and have some fun in the process. read more

Not your average tour! I tried the Venice Land tour out of curiosity, being a resident in Los Angeles and not knowing much about the area. It was fun, immersive, collaborative, and educational. We were serenaded by musicians and teased by comedians while we were guided through the unusual history of Venice. In the spirit of its history, we also got to play with our own creativity in some fun group activities -- in one of them, our group quickly came up with the idea for a multi-purpose toilet plunger product. Will never forget the toilet plunger. Thank you Mojo Maps! read more

I went on this tour not knowing what it was going to be. It was a scavenger hunt into the past! We got to visit areas of Venice that gave me a glimpse into the past and a bit of what it might have been like when Venice was a younger city. We also did fun activities and got to express ourselves, experience the Venice of today and it's cultural, and artistic influences. I went by myself on this one and this would be a great tour for couples and groups as well. A fun way to spend the day and learn about the city! read more

I didn't exactly know what to expect from this adventure, but I was pleasantly surprised. It's basically a tour of Venice, but more than that. It's interactive, it's fun, and be ready to be creative. What really made it enjoyable were the guides. They were funny, they were fun and made you want to be fun as well. I definitely recommend checking it out whether you are new to Venice or if you want some knowledge dropped about the place you frequent. read more

We booked the Venice Land tour and it was a great time . This is a interactive,historical and very entertaining event. Your talented tour guide and hosts provide a very nice walking tour of Venice with a few "guest" guides appearing along the way. From the beach to the canals of Venice, you will laugh often and learn the bizarre and obscure history of Venice CA. read more

Mojo Maps Expedition - Walking Tours Near Me - Venice, California

What a lovely experience! The tour was very informative and extremely fun. I would recommend it to locals and tourists, actually to anyone who wants to enjoy a (literally) extraordinary morning and discover the hidden treasures of Venice Beach. read more

If you're looking for an adventurous, unique, and wildly creative way to explore one of LA's most pretty & interesting neighborhoods, this is a great idea. Imagine a walking tour, a scavenger hunt, and a team-building exercise rolled into one. For me, I think it ran a little long, and could have picked up the pace a little bit, but it sounds like they've fixed some of that since I did it a few months ago. Overall: huzzah! read more

If your looking for the hidden gem of activities to do in LA, you have found the spot. This is a tour that will having you doing things you never thought you could do! I don't know of any other tours like this. It's an amazing adventure to do with your friends family, it's fun engaging and beautiful! read more

What a great way to see Venice! Such a unique experience, it's hard to put into words because it really is all about the experience. Everything from being in a live play, to seeing parts of Venice you didn't know were there. And all the cool activities, experiential games and I even got to spray paint on Venice Beach (legally). I would recommend this to anyone, tourist or local. Get a couple of friends and check it out. read more

There's no other tour quite like Mojo Maps! I've been on two of their very different tours: one where I rode a bicycle through downtown L.A., and another one where I went on a walking tour through Venice Beach. As different as both of the tours were, they each followed the same themes of inspiring creativity, getting out of your comfort zone, meeting new people, and learning cool things about the featured neighborhoods. I left their latest "Veniceland" tour smiling and elated. After all, I got to partner up with some really neat people, got to spray paint a wall (legally!), get to play some fun interactive games, and learn about the history of Venice, all while being entertained by three sweet and amazing hosts. read more

I did the downtown LA - Arts District tour with my dad. It was a fun experience that showed me an area of a city I had lived in my whole life and never seen. We did a ton of different activities that are well thought out and outside of normal routines. The tour was a new adventure that left me invigorated and excited! I highly recommend it! read more

I joined this tour with a group of friends and really enjoyed it. It's a new kind of interactive walking tour along Venice Canal and beach. The tour will take you back to the old days of how Venice was like in the early 1900. The activities created in this tour will bring you back to your childhood memory; the things that you liked to do and you were not able to do it, etc. You will enjoy not only the people in the group but how you see yourself newly after this tour. Really recommended to anyone who comes to LA or even who lives here and wanna have a couple hours tour with friends. read more

I had already visited Venice beach before, but this tour showed me another side of Venice that I had never seen. The tour has amazing elements of comedy, music and gives you interesting cultural tidbits that you'd never know about on your own. The tour went on from Venice Beach, Muscle Beach, the canals and more. Wether you're a tourist or a local, this is an amazing way to discover and explore a city in the most immersive way possible. This is a totally unique and amazing way to explore a city. HIGHLY recommend this! read more

Typically, I find tours to be quite boring and I was pleasantly surprised to find this tour was anything but boring. What stood out to me was the ability of the tour guides to weave the different locations that we visited into a story about the rich history of Venice. What I liked most was that the tour was actually a great bonding experience for all the attendees, and I walked away having made friends with everyone on the tour. I would recommend it to everyone! read more