A Local’s Guide to Downtown Culver City: Where to Live, Dine, Shop, and Play

Culver City continues to be a popular area to put down roots, not only for all that it provides on its own but for its convenient location right between Venice Beach and Los Angeles. Culver City is a thriving community of just over 41,000 and is considered a great place to live both for individuals and families alike. So whether you’re looking into surrounding Mar Vista real estate or want to live right in downtown Culver City, use this guide to become acquainted with all that the area has to offer.

Just over 10 miles southwest of Los Angeles, Culver City presents locals with a mix of urban and suburban energy, with plenty to do both outdoors and around town. From hiking trails to nearby shopping centers, Culver City has a great blend of activities to take part in. Most people who live in Culver City love the area’s unique history and an array of ways to get involved in the community. From festivals to theater performances and live music, Culver City feels active and exciting. Not only a great hub for art and culture, but Culver City is also only five miles from top beaches like Marina and Venice. Relocators looking for homes in Culver City will find them in a variety of styles. Stunning modern homes are particularly popular, as are homes in traditional California styles like Mediterranean and Spanish Revival. With a little bit of everything, Culver City is a great option for those looking to move to LA County.

Whether you’re investing in Mar Vista real estate or homes for sale right in Culver City, the area has a great mix of eateries for any craving. Morning pick-me-ups can be had at any of the cute Culver City coffee shops around town, including spots like Philz Coffee or Equator Coffees. Brunch is best served at the Meet in Paris Bistro or Bianca, where locals can gather on Sundays for a catch-up on the patio. Nights out on the town are made perfect with a reservation at Culver City’s top restaurants. AKASHA is a great American spot with a rustic flair, while Tender Greens invites locals to a cafeteria-style dining experience that utilizes sustainable ingredients. French cuisine can be found at the lovely, open Simonette Restaurant, while Kayndaves Cantina is a favorite for Mexican fare. For a night of true fine dining, Vespertine is a must-see. Sleek and artistic, the Jordan Kahn restaurant is incredibly modern and innovative. N/naka is another upscale eatery featuring Japanese tasting menus and a contemporary dining room.

Downtown Culver City is nearby to a few great shopping centers. The Platform on Washington Blvd is a top place to find men’s and women’s fashions. Acting as a hub for independent brands, Platform is the shopping center of choice for those hunting for unique finds. The Culver Steps is another plaza in downtown Culver City, with more than 45,000 square feet of retail space. Designed like a park, the Culver Steps invite those both with Culver City and Mar Vista real estate to take part in shopping and services, as well as community events and farmer’s markets. Finally, Westfield Culver City is a haven for locals seeking retail therapy. Stores like Express, G by Guess, and MAC are just the beginning.

When it comes to live theater, Culver City has a few local options. The Kirk Douglas Theatre is part of the Center Theatre Group, which encompasses the Ahmanson Theatre and Mark Taper Forum as well. With just over 300 seats, the Kirk Douglas Theatre is a small but professional venue that produces well-known and up-and-coming shows. Meanwhile, the beautifully designed Robert Frost Auditorium puts on performances ranging from Broadway-caliber musicals to comedy shows, orchestra concerts, and more. With 1,200 seats, the auditorium feels grand and modern. For live music in Culver City, check out spots like Joxer Daly’s and the Cinema Bar. Seventy7 Lounge on Main Street and the Backstage Bar & Grill are great options, too.

If live music and theater aren’t for you, Culver City has a wide selection of activities to keep you busy throughout the year. Even if you own Mar Vista real estate, you can take part in visiting the nearby attractions that Culver City has to offer. Culver City is home to the beautiful Veterans Memorial Park, where locals can visit the Wende Museum. The museum is a tribute to the Cold War and features a collection of art pieces and historical artifacts. Along Washington and La Cienega, residents will find the Culver City Arts District, where a handful of galleries sit. From the Allouche Gallery to the Art Walk, creatives will love touring the galleries, whether to discover new exhibits or revisit old favorites.

Culver City also hosts a number of annual events and festivals for locals to take part in. The Spring Egg Hunt is a fun, family-friendly event held in Veterans Park each March, while the George Barris Culver City Car Show lives up to its name by showcasing dozens of classic cars from all over the state. The summer brings with it the Boulevard Music Festival as well as the Fiesta La Ballona and the Westside Food and Wine Festival. And, of course, the Culver City Film Festival is a favorite, taking place every December.

If you’re interested in relocating to the Culver City area, get in touch with a real estate brokerage that can help you determine the best part of town to call home. Campbell Wellman is a premiere boutique brokerage in LA, helping buyers connect with sellers to have a transaction that’s stress-free and seamless. With a team of agents dedicated to integrity, professionalism, and client-centered service, buyers can be sure they’re working with the best of the best at Campbell Wellman. When you’re ready to step into the home buying process in earnest, reach out to Culver City and Mar Vista real estate expert Campbell Wellman.