Top California Arts & Design - page 8

“There is nothing like this anywhere!“ Step into San Francisco's Ultimate Weird House, dubbed "the most unusual house in the city, if not the universe" by the San Francisco Chronicle. Embark on a psychedelic odyssey through nine curious installations, where Alice in Wonderland meets 1001 Arabian Nights in a whirlwind of art and imagination. This "connectatorium," offers a globetrotting, time-traveling journey of self-discovery unlike any other experience in the city. Expect an adventure filled with sensory overload and surprises behind every magical door. Are you ready to look inside?

Step behind the scenes of a historic U.S. Navy battleship and experience the power that kept it moving. The Engineering Tour takes you deep below deck into areas most visitors never see, where massive machinery, original equipment, and narrow passageways tell the story of life at sea. Led by an accredited guide, you’ll explore the ship’s engineering spaces while hearing real stories of the sailors who operated these complex systems under pressure. From the roar of the engine rooms to the intricate mechanics that powered the vessel, this immersive experience brings history to life in a way you won’t forget. If you’re looking for a unique, hands-on perspective of naval history, this is a must-do experience aboard Battleship IOWA. Book now and discover what truly powered this legendary ship.

Embark on the most magical family adventure! Nestled in a quiet San Francisco neighborhood, this immersive experience invites families and friends of all generations to explore an enchanted fairy grove led by a fairy, and her magical muse. Cast spells, make wishes, and encounter fairies as you journey through portals to the unknown, stumbling upon hilarious stories, a tea party, and conjuring tiny miracles along the way. With testimonials praising its ability to inspire creative thought and imagination, this one-of-a-kind adventure promises to create lasting family memories. Get ready to be charmed on a voyage unlike any other!

Let’s Do Lunch! A visual feast with San Francisco artists “One of the last havens for artists in the city” - SFGate - During this Behind-the-Scenes Visit, enjoy a homemade, multicultural meal with our creative team. Immerse into this vibrant world of local artists as you explore their studios, gaining insight into their creative process and witnessing firsthand the magic behind their masterpieces. With exclusive access to several installations and intimate conversations with the artists, a chance to meet local luminaries, and perhaps witness spontaneous performances, this cultural encounter offers many surprises. Come connect with fellow travelers and locals in this heartfelt experience of joy and inspiration!

Embark on a captivating 90-minute walking tour along San Diego's picturesque Embarcadero, where the city meets the sea. This immersive journey combines stunning waterfront views with rich historical insights, offering a perfect blend of leisure and exploration. Begin your journey when we meet you at Starbucks at the Hilton Bayfront, and set forth towards The Rady Shell. Revel in the modern architectural marvel of this open-air concert venue and enjoy views of the bay. Continue towards Seaport Village, immersing yourself in unique shops and eateries with stunning bayfront views. Discover the charm of this iconic waterfront marketplace. Marvel at the colossal USS Midway, a floating museum showcasing naval aviation history. Enjoy panoramic views from the flight deck. This tour will undoubtedly leave you with a profound appreciation for the dynamic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines San Diego's iconic waterfront.

Get to Melrose and book this private hipster photo shoot, where your photographer guide will lead you to some of LA’s most famous graffiti and murals which make great backdrops for your photos. Come away with 50 professionally taken, edited photos. You can also take as many photos as you like to capture the essence of Melrose.

Get to know Downtown Los Angeles on a walking tour of this diverse and vibrant neighborhood. Your guide will lead you to historic landmarks such as Olvera Street as well as recent architectural treasures like Disney Concert Hall. You’ll see important museums and locations familiar from the movies, all the while gaining insight into the development of a remarkable part of LA.

Beyond the tie-dye and neon, the Haight-Ashbury is a masterpiece of redwood and revolution. This 2.5-hour tour reveals the neighborhood’s true soul through three lenses: its world-class Victorian architecture, a six-decade legacy of street art, and the raw history of the 1960s counterculture—minus the nostalgia. We’ll explore grand Victorian estates that rival the famous Painted Ladies, uncovering why these communal spaces became the literal infrastructure for a social uprising. You’ll walk past musicians' homes and iconic murals—including the city’s oldest—to see how a "rejection" of the status quo birthed a new aesthetic in art and sound. From the highs of the "Free" philosophy to the darker realities of the era’s decline, this is an insider’s look at how one neighborhood’s built environment fueled a global shift. Perfect for those seeking the wider story behind the legendary addresses.

Guided tours can be expensive and follow rigid itineraries with tight schedules. On this self-guided audio tour, save money and explore the Sacramento street-art scene at your own pace—and on your own bike. Bring a bike or rent one nearby, and ride through downtown and Midtown Sacramento in search of the city’s best murals. The audio guide takes you along out-of-the-way streets that are easily bikeable.

Enjoy a fun and flexible way to explore one of San Francisco’s most colorful neighborhoods on this private self-led audio tour of Haight-Ashbury. Upon booking, download the app and receive lifetime access to the audio tour. Set off at a time that works best for you, departing from Golden Gate Park. See everything from the Hippie Temptation House to the Four Seasons Houses and beyond.

The Sloomoo Institute in Los Angeles offers a unique slime adventure perfect for all ages! Guests enjoy a trip to the DIY Bar to create their own 8 oz slime, choosing from over 40 colors, 60 fragrances, and 120 charms. Explore interactive attractions like the Slimey Mirrors, Lake Sloomoo with 350 gallons of slime, and augmented reality Sloomooscapes. With sensory experiences and surprises around every corner, it's a day filled with creativity and fun.

Unlike a typical garden visit, Summer Nights at Filoli offers rare after-hours access to a historic estate and world-class garden. Enjoy golden hour views, live acoustic music, local food trucks, and sunset hikes—all with fewer crowds and a relaxed, festival-style vibe. It’s a midweek escape that blends natural beauty, culture, and community in one unforgettable evening.

- Explore the largest art museum in the western United States with a ticket and a self-guided audio tour - all in one app - Question what you see, discovering the most daring works of surrealism and expressionism - Immerse yourself in the bold and thought-provoking universe of abstract sculpture - Trace the intriguing history of modern art through the destinies of renowned artists - Take creative and original pictures amidst the most Instagrammable art installation

Next Available Dates: July 3rd - 10am July 24th - 10am Need Another Date? Please message Explore Los Angeles through its vibrant murals and monuments on this guided driving city tour. Travel through neighborhoods like Downtown, Midcity, South LA, Crenshaw, and Compton, where each stop reveals captivating art that narrates the city’s rich history. From tributes to icons like Kobe Bryant and Nipsey Hussle to murals that represent the spirit of local communities, you’ll discover the heart of LA. Enjoy a leisurely pace with storytelling, photo opportunities, and a delicious lunch at a local spot, making this tour perfect for art enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. - Guided Driving tour through iconic neighborhoods showcasing local art - Visit significant murals and monuments with rich historical context - Lunch included at a local eatery that reflects neighborhood vibes - Perfect for art lovers and anyone wanting a deeper connection to LA

Easy access to Los Angeles is a perk of staying in Anaheim, but driving yourself can make exploring the city a hassle. From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the Santa Monica Pier, you’ll experience Los Angeles highlights on this private tour, with a personal driver to shuttle you between stops. The whole day is customizable, ensuring plenty of time to enjoy the things that interest you most.

Unlike a typical garden visit, Summer Nights at Filoli offers rare after-hours access to a historic estate and world-class garden. Enjoy golden hour views, live acoustic music, local food trucks, and sunset hikes—all with fewer crowds and a relaxed, festival-style vibe. It’s a midweek escape that blends natural beauty, culture, and community in one unforgettable evening.

Step into the boots of a battleship sailor in this exclusive behind-the-scenes journey aboard Battleship IOWA. Start with the IOWA Experience, a self-guided tour across five decks that showcases the ship’s presidential legacy, interactive exhibits, sailor stories, and a fun scavenger hunt led by Vicky the Dog. NOTE: Please arrive earlier in the day to complete the self-guided IOWA Experience before your crew-led “Big Guns” Tour at 1:30 PM. Then, go deeper with a 2.5-hour crew-led tour into rarely seen spaces—areas of the ship that powered her dominance during World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Descend through hatches and climb through passageways as you explore. Due to the physically demanding nature of this tour and access to confined spaces, it is limited to guests aged 10+ and not recommended for those with mobility limitations. Closed-toe shoes required.

Discover the heart and soul of San Diego’s Little Italy on this immersive self-guided audio tour. Stroll through vibrant piazzas, past historic landmarks, and into hidden corners as you uncover stories of immigrant families, World War II heroes, and the neighborhood’s rich fishing past. From the iconic Little Italy landmark sign to the charming 19th-century M Winehouse cottage, this hands-free experience brings history to life with GPS-triggered narration and local insights. From locals to first-time visitors, we're pretty sure you'll learn something new on this self-paced journey through Little Italy.

Experience Los Angeles and the Hollywood area with ease on this private tour. Depart from your accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle and make your way through the city. In the company of your guide, learn about the history of the city and visit Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and more.

The architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright has inspired generations of architects, many of whom went on to become legends in their own right. Los Feliz is a fascinating neighborhood, filled with homes designed by some of the most significant architects of the mid-century modern movement. Over 2 hours, you'll hike from one Frank Lloyd Wright house to another and end at the famous Griffith Observatory! My name is Chris, and I have been an LA guide for over a decade. You may recognize my name from the reviews of my other 5-star tours, like The History and Architecture of Downtown LA. My goal is to create authentic experiences that show people what really makes LA a fascinating city. When you book this tour, you are getting the person that wrote the tour, not just a guide for hire. If you love Frank Lloyd Wright, mid-century modern design, exploring local communities, visiting film locations, or just going for a nice walk, this tour is for you!

Discover a world of wonder and exploration with the California Academy of Sciences Ticket in San Francisco, an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages. This all-in-one attraction brings together an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, and living rainforest under one innovative roof. Walk through a four-story tropical rainforest filled with butterflies and birds, come face to face with sharks and vibrant marine life, and enjoy fascinating planetarium shows that take you on a journey through space. Interactive exhibits make science fun and engaging, while the iconic living roof and location in Golden Gate Park add to the experience. Perfect for families, science lovers, and curious explorers, this ticket offers a full day of discovery, learning, and excitement. Book now and experience one of San Francisco’s most inspiring attractions.

The Alcatraz Island Tour offers a unique glimpse into the historic former prison, accessible via a scenic ferry ride from Pier 33 in San Francisco. This package includes admission to Alcatraz Island and an award-winning 45-minute audio tour of the prison, providing insights into the lives of infamous inmates and the prison's storied past. Visitors can explore the island at their own pace, allowing ample time to absorb the rich history and stunning views of the San Francisco skyline. This tour is a must for history buffs and those seeking a deeper understanding of one of America’s most notorious landmarks.

The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Elvis Presley, Van Halen, The Doors, Led Zepplin, and Guns N' Roses are just a few of the musicians who have lived, worked, and partied in Los Angeles. As the center of the music industry, LA is overloaded with Rock and Roll history. This private tour will take you to rock star hangouts new and old, the luxurious homes of music legends, and the sites of show business tragedies. Each tour is different and customizable based on your favorite music. Just let me know what you're into and we'll jam pack as much into it as we can. Your tour guide is Adam Papagan, LA native, music fanatic, and author of the guidebook "Behind The Scenes in Los Angeles: A Pop Culture History Tour". From Oldies, to Classic Rock, to Punk, to Hip Hop and RnB, LA does it all!

Discover the art and rich history of Mendocino Stone Ranch on a guided walking tour with the owner and founder, Genevieve Mullins, who provides a rich oral history of how the Ranch came to be. Tours happen the every first Sunday of every month from 12pm-2. This unique experience showcases over 30 stunning stone masonry art installations nestled in the breathtaking redwood forest, all while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Engage with the rich history of this artistic land, created by master stone masons and supported by patron Peter J. Mullins. Whether you're an art lover or a nature enthusiast, this tour offers an unforgettable blend of culture and scenery. - Guided tours available on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm-4pm - Access to installations via the “Stone Ranch Express” ATV vehicle for those with limited mobility