Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets

1. How much does a ticket cost?
   Each ticket is $60 in advance and $70 on the day of the tour; children under 12 are free. For more ticket information, please refer to our Ticket information.
2. How do I get tickets?
   When you check in at the start location on tour day, you can buy tickets then, or pick up pre-paid tickets at Will Call. Pre-paid tickets are not sent out in advance of the tour (regardless of purchase method). Refer to our Ticket information for more information.
3. Do I need to bring anything to get my tickets?
   Please have your ticket purchase receipt letter or PayPal purchase receipt with you when you check in.
4. Where do I pick up the tickets?
   Tickets are handed out at NYA’s Las Doradas Children’s Center, 804 Broadway, Venice, starting at 9:45 am on tour day.
5. Can I get a ticket refund?
   No, refunds are not available.
6. Can I transfer my tickets to someone else?
   Yes, you can transfer your tickets to another name. Please contact us before the day of the tour.
7. Can someone else pick up my tickets?
   Yes, another person can pick up your tickets as long as they provide your name.

Day of the Tour

1. What type of tour is this?
   The tour is a self-guided walking tour of homes and gardens in Venice, California. Free shuttle buses are available all along the route to assist walkers in getting around the various neighborhoods. Biking between the homes is also encouraged.
2. When is the next tour?
   The next tour is on Saturday, May 5, 2012. The gardens and homes are open from 10am to 5pm.
3. Are the homes and gardens the same as last year?
   No, the gardens, homes and neighborhoods change each year. For more information about this year's homes, refer to About the Tour.
4. Can I get a tour map ahead of time?
   No. Tour maps will be available after check-in only on the day of the tour.
5. Where does the tour start?
   Start at NYA’s Las Doradas Children’s Center, 804 Broadway, Venice, CA. Please refer to our map and directions.
6. How long does the tour take?
   The tour can take as long as you want, but it's best to allow as much of the day as possible - at least several hours!
7. When should I start the tour?
   You can start the tour any time of day you like, but we recommend starting early to be sure you have time to see all the homes.
8. Can I ride my bike?
   Yes, biking is encouraged. Please be courteous and park your bike outside the homes. You are responsible for your own bike, so please bring a lock.
9. Can I rent a bike nearby? You can rent bikes in Venice from these businesses:

   Venice Bike & Skate [map]
   21 Washington Blvd, Venice (at Speedway),  (310) 301-4011

   Bike Attack [map]
   1501 Main Street, Venice (north of Windward Circle),  (310) 399-8783

10. Where do I park?
    Parking is on the street or as directed to the tour area.
11. Can I bring a dog or stroller?
    No dogs or strollers are allowed in the gardens and homes.
12. Is photography allowed?
    Yes, photography allowed!
13. What happens if it rains?
    The tour will be held rain or shine.
14. Is the tour handicap accessible?
    Many gardens will be handicap accessible, but some of the homes may have limited or no access.
15. What should I wear?
    Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Also, many home interiors have a "no shoes" policy, so we definitely recommend slip-ons or other easily removable shoes. Hats and sunscreen are also strongly recommended.
16. Will water be readily available?
    Yes. Bring your own reusable water bottle, which you can refill at various stations along the tour route.
17. Will any food be availble?
    Food vendors and trucks will be available for lunch and snacks in the tour area. In addition, many restaurants on Abbot Kinney and Venice Blvd are available for a great meal. Specific vendor information will be posted here as it becomes available.
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