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Art and culture activities in California

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Art and culture activities led by local experts

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In the Mood for Chinatown: Arts and Eats with a SF Native

Experience Chinatown through the eyes of a San Francisco-born artist and advocate. Explore the neighborhood’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and deep-rooted activism while immersing yourself in its culture, creativity, and cuisine. • Dive into Chinatown’s contemporary arts scene with a mural walk and visits to local businesses, discovering handmade jewelry, independent zines, and other creations by artists rooted in the community. • Pit stop for a casual, delicious dim sum bite. • Learn about Chinatown’s history of intersectional activism and gain insider insights into the neighborhood’s dynamic, connected community. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the unique blend of art, activism, and culture that defines Chinatown—plus a curated map for further exploration. Note: San Francisco’s hills and changing weather call for comfortable shoes and layers. Feel free to bring a camera or notebook to document your journey.

5 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviews

Hands on Screen Printing with local artist

Dive into the vibrant intersection of art and culture in this hands-on, screen-printing workshop in the San Fernando Valley. • Learn how to screen print while incorporating aspects of the lowrider culture that has historical roots here in Southern California. • I’ll perform a step-by-step demonstration of my screen-printing process, explaining the techniques and creative choices, and walk you through the materials. Screens, inks, squeegees, and garments will all be provided. • Best of all, you'll customize your iconic lowrider-inspired print. You’ll leave with your custom-made shirt, further tips for continuing the screen-printing craft at home, and insider information on where to find lowrider meet ups.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 328 reviews

Step inside one of San Francisco's iconic Painted Ladies

Step into my historic home, the Blue Painted Lady, a beautifully preserved Victorian on San Francisco’s iconic Postcard Row. Built in 1894, the house is filled with family heirlooms and offers a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse inside one of America’s most famous homes. • In the parlor, I’ll explain my family’s long history with this glorious property and San Francisco. I’ll guide you through rooms on three floors, sharing family heirlooms and the stories of those who once owned them, including a first-edition Mark Twain book. • Are you interested in architecture, film, historic preservation, or the Gold Rush? I’ll tailor your experience and share family stories and historic anecdotes accordingly. • Our tour concludes in the elegant dining room, where I’ll talk about the Painted Ladies’ significance in San Francisco and discuss the importance of preserving this iconic piece of history. You’ll leave feeling a personal connection to my home as well as to the history of San Francisco.

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Sushi, sweets, and stories with an actor in Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo isn’t just a Los Angeles neighborhood—it’s a living, breathing testament to resilience, tradition, and evolution. Join me, an actor and storyteller, for a tour through its storied streets and a deep dive into Japanese American culture, from hidden historical gems to contemporary pop culture hotspots with some handcrafted treats along the way. • Begin at the Japanese American National Museum to learn about the forced removal and incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, and trace their journey through the timeline etched along First Street. • At Fugetsu-Do, a family-run sweetshop since 1903, hear the story of perseverance behind this beloved store while enjoying handcrafted mochi and manju. • Dive into the vibrant world of contemporary Japanese entertainment, from claw machines to collectible figurines, at Anime Jungle and Japanese Village Plaza. • Wrap up at Mitsuru Cafe, where I’ll share the rich history of sushi and the nuances of Japanese dining. Learn the proper way to enjoy sushi, from chopstick etiquette to dipping techniques, while savoring an authentic culinary experience. Whether you’re passionate about history, love delicious food, or are an admirer of Japanese pop culture, you’ll gain a rich appreciation for them all on this tour.

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Learn the art of pot painting using cochinilla dye

This creative & beginner-friendly workshop will take place in our backyard greenhouse patio, surrounded by fresh air and plants. Each participant will receive a unique & portable terracotta pot to paint & customize using a natural & locally-harvested Cochinilla Dye made from scratch by the shop's owner and founder, Andi Xoch, as well as a small plant to take home! We’ll begin with a fun introductory exercise & a brief history on our business & Cochinilla dye, which has ancient origins in the Americas. We’ll explain how to use the provided materials & show you some finished samples; as we guide you through the design & painting process, everyone will get an opportunity for one-on-one tips as you sketch your ideas & dive into painting. While our pots dry, we’ll answer any questions & share our favorite local spots around Boyle Heights, most within walking distance! You can also browse our shop's selection of plants, florals, & original artwork. All guests will receive a 20% discount. Once our pots are dry, each participant will get to choose a small beginner-friendly succulent to plant inside their pot to take home; these plants are the perfect travel companions, & shouldn't cause any stress on the way home! You’ll leave with a new awareness of a rich artistic tradition, an appreciation for Boyle Heights, and of course, your own custom potted plant to keep as a souvenir!

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Tour Carroll Avenue’s Victorian Mansions with a History Buff

Come with me on a walking tour of Carroll Avenue’s iconic block of Victorian mansions, some of which you may recognize from TV. I’ll share the stories behind the ornate, sometimes spooky exteriors of these seven homes, breathing life back into the architecture. • The tour begins at the Phillips House, where we’ll dive into the charm and culture of 19th-century Los Angeles. • Along the route, we’ll stop at the “Thriller” house, the set for Michael Jackson’s most famous music video. (The zombies have since left the building.) • We’ll wrap up our tour at the “Charmed” house, home to the TV series trio of witch sisters. You’ll leave with a digital brochure covering the neighborhood’s history, as well as suggestions for more ways to explore Los Angeles’ hidden history. There are many sides to this city that no one knows about!

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Skate Modernism: Thrasher Magazine's skate spot walking tour

San Francisco’s streets have long been the backdrop for some of skateboarding’s most legendary moments. On Thrasher Magazine’s This Old Tour, walk—or roll—through the architecture, history, and underground scene that made the city a global skateboarding mecca. • Begin at St. Mary’s Square to learn how the garages and ledges of this area became unexpected locations for skate tricks, before exploring iconic spots like Black Rock, California and Kearny, and Portsmouth Square to hear how sculptures and public spaces shaped the sport. • Follow the lines of legends like Tommy Guerrero, Keith Hufnagel, and Mike Carroll, and see firsthand how Financial District plazas became proving grounds for technical innovation in skateboarding. • Conclude at the Ferry Building, steps from the Embarcadero, where modern technical street skating was born. I’ll share stories of how skaters transformed the area into one of the most important spots in skateboarding history.

5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

Celebrity Grave Tour at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Join me for this exclusive, in-person tour of the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the resting place of Hollywood’s greatest stars. You’ll feel the energy of Old Hollywood come to life as I share jaw-dropping stories. • We’ll start with some Hollywood Forever trivia, and I’ll get to know who you’re most excited to visit. • From there, we’ll explore famous graves and uncover Hollywood’s hidden stories, from Vampira’s feud with Elvira to the relocation of Judy Garland’s remains. We’ll also visit the memorials of stars like Mickey Rooney, Florence Lawrence, and Anne Heche. • We’ll end with a crypt tour and more fan-favorite sites, where you can pay your respects to icons like Jayne Mansfield and rock legends Johnny Ramone and Chris Cornell.

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Discover the Mission murals with Precita Eyes Muralists

San Francisco’s Mission District is known around the world for its colorful community murals. At the center of this public art movement is Precita Eyes Muralists. Join artists from this organization as we guide you around the neighborhood. • Assemble at Precita Eyes’ headquarters on 24th Street and learn a little bit about the organization’s history and the muralist movement in San Francisco. • Then we’ll walk around the neighborhood, seeing places like the famous Balmy Alley, depictions of Carnival, a school building covered in murals, and an abandoned space where artists come to express themselves. • As we wander, you’ll hear the powerful stories hidden under each brushstroke. You’ll leave with a greater understanding of San Francisco muralists, the street art all around you, and the complicated history that binds the neighborhood together.

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 58 reviews

Paint Watercolor with a Local Artist

You will have the opportunity to paint iconic San Francisco images in watercolor with an experienced artist and teacher. Beginners are welcome and all materials are included, you'll walk away with your own personal masterpiece! My name is James Gleeson and I am a multi faceted, local San Francisco Artist who specializes in local scenes of San Francisco. My work reflects both academic discipline and creative artistic freedom. My studio is located in the Bernal Heights/Mission district where I display my work and share my passion for art with others. This is where I paint and teach my classes, you will be immersed by iconic images and paintings of San Francisco. We do a different theme each class and I prepare an individual drawing for each student on watercolor paper. All students are provided materials and a spacious place to work. We will do a quick round of introductions and I'll explain our theme and painting in a beginner friendly step by step process. I will explain and demonstrate each step for students to paint each segment of the painting. You will learn basic water color technique as well as color and design methods. I am very excited to host you and to provide this artistic experience. As a teacher I love working with beginners and seeing their inspiration for art grow. You will learn technical skills to take home and continue your painting. See you soon!

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5 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

Explore Hidden OldTown w/Tequila & Tacos

Old Town is San Diego's oldest, most historic neighborhood, and is the birthplace of California. We’ll look beyond the tourist traps and find little known “real” treasures and history of the 'hood. Plus we'll talk about food and sample some tortillas along the way, ending at a restaurant with mouthwatering tacos and a selection of tequila you won't find anywhere else. Our experience starts at the Adobe Chapel, used as both a house and place of worship in the 19th century. We'll then try some freshly made tortillas from a local vendor who makes thousands of them a day. Afterwards we'll view the Whaley House, where ghosts famously haunt this unique, brick building. Then we'll proceed up the hill to view Heritage Park with its lovely Victorian homes, and take a brief hike up Presidio Hill to see the first place settled by Europeans in 1769. We'll also talk about the Kumeyaay who were here 10,000 years before that. Once down the hill we will pay our respects at a historic cemetery, the final resting place of many including the infamous Yankee Jim. Last, but in no way least, we'll sit down for some chips and salsa, delicious tacos and then toast our experience with a tequila drink. Other things to note This is a walking tour with food at the end. We cover less than 2 miles but will be on our feet most of the time. Tour ends 5-10 minutes away from where it begins.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 4597 reviews

The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour w/ Comedy & Photos

My friends JB, Elko, Jon and I are comedians and actors who have done some work on NBC, ABC, Netflix, and even Jimmy Kimmel Live! We're just 4 dudes trying to make it in LA. We're gonna tell you approx 3000 jokes (some dad-related) about Los Angeles, ourselves, our experiences in LA, maybe a Justin Bieber story? Also, no one has better dad jokes than us. Not even my own dad. (Sup Dad)! This experience is great for groups, teams, and individual solo travelers. We're about becoming best FRIENDS. At the start, I’m gonna hand you the best tasting WATER in the history of water. From there, we'll have y'all laughing so hard at our jokes and stories that you'll forget that we are hiking up a hill to the Hollywood Sign. Did we just become best friends?? WHAT ABOUT THE PICTURES? We stop at the BEST PHOTO STOPS for your own Cover Shoot. I've designed this hike for IG and can GUARANTEE You'll get 10+likes/photo. You’ll receive PROFESSIONAL photos of the sign, the skyline, and scenic panoramas that may break the internet with likes. Other tours take 1-2 pictures. I'll give you 75+ (Best Friend Move). We've been doing this for 6 years and love to show you how LA is done by an actual local and not a "tour company." Please Note: Tipping tour guides is America is customary and always appreciated. It's not mandatory but is the best way to show your guide that you had a great time!

5 out of 5 average rating, 32 reviews

LA Iconic Photo Tour

- TOP HOST in LA with more than 850+ reviews! - WELCOME TO THE BEST PHOTO TOUR in LOS ANGELES In this tour, I'm gonna take your amazing photos with my NEWEST iPhone PRO max and when the tour finishes, I will send you the all photos with Airdrop and you can share immmediately Where we'll visit ; - Beverly Hills Iconic Palm Tree Road - Beverly Hills Sign - Rodeo Drive - Melrose Angel Wings Mural - Melrose Smiley Mural - Melrose Pink Wall If you wanna add more places like below we can do but its extra cost $ , please message me for details. - Hollywood Sign - Santa Monica Beach - Santa Monica Pier - Griffith Observatory - Venice Beach - Venice Sign - Venice Canals - Arnold Schwarzzanager Mural - Malibu Pier - DTLA - Santa Barbara - San Diego If you can't see the date you want to book or there is not enough space, just send us a message with the dates you're available and how many people you'd like to book for

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 544 reviews

Las Vegas Instagram Photo Experience

I am offering the perfect Las Vegas Strip experience for solo travelers, couples and groups, and families (as well as IG influencers and content creators) who want the perfect iconic Vegas photos! I will make sure that you get the perfect photos to show off your trip to Las Vegas. I will also share local insider tips for restaurants, shows, and off-Strip hidden gems. We will start by meeting at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, where we will capture the perfect photo of the iconic Bellagio fountains (with the Eiffel Tower in the background). We will then cross Las Vegas Blvd and get a wide angle shot of the Eiffel Tower. Our tour will continue to the Flamingo Habitat for a must-have shot with the High Roller in the background. We will then make our way towards Caesar's Palace, where we will get photos with the Trevi Fountain. We will finish off with some shots in front of the Venetian Hotel and the famous gondolas. This tour will be conducted by walking (approximately a mile and a half from start to finish). I am happy to take photos with my own iPhone 15 PRO (complete with wide lens) or with your personal device or your professional camera (on private tours). I will also edit three of your favorite photos for you! You will leave this tour with social media worthy photos from all locations as well as new knowledge of the hotels and spots we visit.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 1290 reviews

Electric Bike Tour SF's iconic sights & gems w/ a cool local

Discover San Francisco Like Never Before! This experience is led by longtime locals Nick and John. We run Dandyhorse (look us up:) , SF's only local bike tour & rental company, since 2015. Take our awesome e-bike tour and go beyond typical sightseeing on an immersive, narrated adventure through the soul of the city. Your fun local guide / historian uses our exclusive wireless earpieces to bring the story of San Francisco’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes to life. As you ride our premium electric bikes, you’ll hear fascinating stories of the city’s gold rush origins, rebellious spirit, and ever-evolving future—all while enjoying the beauty of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and must-see neighborhoods. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this is a one-of-a-kind experience that lets you truly feel the soul of the city, not just see it. What you'll do (and ride features): • Ride the Golden Gate Bridge! • Explore Golden Gate Park • Discover the Presidio, SF’s other grand nature area • See SF’s famous Painted Lady Victorian houses • Enjoy a pastry (included!) from one of SF’s best local bakeries • Experience 10 must-visit local neighborhoods • Wireless Headsets for an immersive and extra safe ride • SF's best electric bikes: get up all the hills with ease (so FUN!) Send us a note for private tours, team building rides, and special options.

5 out of 5 average rating, 59 reviews

Model for one day in LA

Your personal photoshoot! The experience is meant for everyone who wants a professional, individualistic service with artistic results. You will receive the whole pre-edited album! Usually around 70-100 photos! Retouched finals are available under request. The average client has little to no modeling experience and is willing to promote their self-image or want beautiful memories of Los Angeles while boosting their self-esteem. I also receive many clients who need new photos for their dating profiles. The photo shoot is private; it's not a group experience (unless you book the private group option). If you are more comfortable, you can come with your significant other, but they won't participate in the photo shoot. An adult must accompany anyone under 18. If you'd like to book a day or an hour that is closed on the calendar, feel free to send me a message. I highly recommend booking weekdays instead of weekends (they are less busy) and evening shifts instead of morning shifts because of the lighting conditions.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 622 reviews

Pottery in the Mission

We will start with some of the interesting history of the studio space. Then I will get you situated on the wheel and show you how to properly secure your lump of clay. After the clay is secured we start the wheel spinning nice and fast. I will show you how to center the clay which is a very important (and frustrating) stage of making pottery on the wheel. After we successfully center the clay, you will explore how the clay moves and reacts to your touch. We will work to form a simple shape such as a bowl or cup. To finish off we will do some clean up of the form and remove the piece from the wheel in order to start experimenting with the next piece. You can expect to get to practice with around 6 lumps of clay (more if you are ambitious) and most people will create 2-3 pieces by the end of the session. Pieces will be professionally finished, fired, and glazed after the experience. This process takes at least 3 weeks. After the pieces are finished you can pickup in the studio or they can be shipped. Shipping costs are paid by the guest. Other things to note Come wearing clothes that you don't mind getting messy. We will provide aprons. If you have long hair plan to have a hair tie or a way to secure your hair back. Trim long nails if you are able.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 245 reviews

San Francisco Personal Photographer Tour

Whether you are traveling solo, with your significant other, or with friends/family, it is always hard to get a spontaneous photo to truly capture the moment. Don't leave it up to a stranger on the street, let me show you some of my favorite spots around San Francisco while snapping some great shots along the way. Don't worry if you feel a little awkward in front of the camera - I am happy to give you directions! This 1.5- 2 hrs tour will show you some well-known spots plus some hidden gems around San Francisco Get ready for some fresh, Insta-ready images to make you the envy of your friends back home. You will get at least 25 high-resolution edited photos per person (usually more!). We will be taking you to the most beautiful architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts, Painted Ladies, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Please note this is a small group tour with a maximum of 4 guests. If you wish to have a private tour or are traveling in a larger group, please contact me to arrange a custom booking. Other things to note. - Bring happiness and Smiles, you are the star of the day - Additional charger for extra hour (discount) - Reschedule is possible when the weather is not on our side. - I also offer Private Proposals contact me for details!

5 out of 5 average rating, 590 reviews

Modern & More Bike Tours Palm Springs

This is a small group 3-hour bike tour of three architecturally/historically significant neighborhoods in south Palm Springs. You'll be biking on quiet streets, no hills, constant sunshine, & very little traffic. All of which makes for a great ride for novices or expert cyclists alike. We’ll explore the neighborhoods of Deepwell Estates, Twin Palms, & Indian Canyons. We’ll see great examples of homes designed by Krisel, Wexler, Eichler, & built by the Alexander Construction Company. We'll also see the homes of some Hollywood celebrities. We’ll stop at specific homes to discuss their architectural & historical details, but you're encouraged to stop anywhere along the way to take photos. So, duration can vary, but it's usually about 3 hours. Please arrive a little early--we can wait 10 min for late guests. Please Note: This tour is designed for serious architecture and history fans, with a lot of academic-level information and detail. It may not be the most enjoyable tour for some children. If you'd like to bring your youngsters, please check with me first, or consider booking a private tour. Thanks!

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 95 reviews

History Driving Tour of Silicon Valley High Tech Companies

This is a tailored experience for technology lovers to explain Silicon Valley history visit 4 landmarks. Join us and be a Geek for a Day! During the drive, we'll explain companies history, fun-facts and we will answer your most geeky questions. Visit these companies: 1- F-A-C-E-B-O-O-K headquarters outside to see the artistic complex, the new campus expansion, and take pictures. 2- Computer History Museum (CHM) home to the largest collection of computing artifacts in the world. Allow 1 hour and possibly snack or lunch at their Bistro. 3- G-O-O-G-L-E-plex outside and the Statues Garden: A must visit for the geek in you, take pictures with the androids, Allow 20 minutes. 4- ApplePark Visitor Center is the Apple campus, with a view of the new RING/Spaceship building . Allow 45 minutes for the Augmented Reality view of the Spaceship Campus, the Store and Cafe. All stops are from the outside, areas open to the public. We don't have special access inside, but we tell you insider stories as experienced by being local and passionate about technology. Note about G-O-O-G-L-E-plex: On the weekends, you can go between the buildings & ride the bicycles, but the store is closed. On the Weekdays, the opposite is true. Note: No flash photography at the CHM, no outside food/drinks and no backpacks. CHM food, drinks and museum store. This is a driving and walking Silicon Valley guided tour.

Art and culture activities in California

Art and culture activities led by local experts

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