This notorious landmark marks the official western point of the legendary United States highway, Route 66. This vast stretch of road, famously immortalised in song, originally ran all the way from Chicago to Los Angeles, and was extended to Santa Monica in 1936. Over the decades since its extension, millions of visitors have sought out the Santa Monica Pier for some light-hearted fun and amusement.
The Santa Monica Pier also has a certain historic reputation, being one of the last-standing piers in Southern California. However, despite its age, the Santa Monica Pier is no dated relic. Open literally every day of the year, 24 hours a day, the pier today is a bustling, busy venue packed full with musical and theatrical entertainment and a whole host of engaging activities that will appeal to people of all ages.
The pier is particularly notable for its fairground rides, with prominent attractions such as a titanic rollercoaster and the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel. All the traditional sights, sounds and tastes of the fairground are here at Santa Monica Pier, with candyfloss and hot dogs, arcades, restaurants, artists and street performers. If you feel like joining in with the frivolity then you can take highflying acrobatic lessons at the resident trapeze school, or if solid ground is more your thing, simply hire a bike and cycle your way along the pier.
The pier also houses a small aquarium dedicated to local sea life, with interactive activities that particularly appeal to children such as touch tanks and marine biology lessons.
Possibly one of the most interesting attractions on the Santa Monica Pier is the fully restored wooden carousel, with its beautifully hand painted and carved wooden horses. This historic ride is housed within its own separate building called the Looff Hippodrome. The carousel may look familiar as it was once featured in the Robert Redford and Paul Newman classic ‘The Sting’.
If you feel like a break from the crowds then some solitude and spectacular ocean views can be had on the second level viewing deck. Santa Monica Pier is a wonderful spot to spend an evening or day in Los Angeles, and is about 29 kilometres west of downtown, located just north of Venice Beach.
Santa Monica Pier Tours and Activities
Visit Santa Monica Pier
Attractions
See all 6 activitiesOpens in new tabLos Angeles: Petersen Automotive Museum Admission Ticket
Tours & day trips
See all 120 activitiesOpens in new tabFull-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More!
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 27 activitiesOpens in new tabMarina del Rey Premier Champagne Brunch Cruise
Private & custom tours
See all 39 activitiesOpens in new tab30-Minute Private Ferrari Driving Tour To Hollywood Sign
Classes & workshops
See all 8 activitiesOpens in new tabLos Angeles: Group Surfing Lesson
Reviews of Santa Monica Pier
4/5 - Good
Took the metro, it did take about 75 minutes and one transfer but as long as you complete your trip in 2 hours it is only $1-75.
3/5 - Okay
unfortunately it was cold and raining
5/5 - Excellent
The all-day ride pass is great value for kids.
5/5 - Excellent
Awesome place, kids had hours of fun on the rides
2/5 - Disappointing
We only booked one night in a Santa Monica hotel. It was disappointing that it rained heavy all weekend so we didn’t get to see the pier or much of the surrounding area.
Popular places to visit
Pacific Park
Bring the children to Pacific Park and have a fun-filled day at this theme park in Santa Monica. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
Take the children to visit the sea life you'll find at Santa Monica Pier Aquarium during your trip to Santa Monica.
Santa Monica Beach
Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.
Third Street Promenade
During your trip to Santa Monica, you can do some window-shopping at Third Street Promenade. Stroll along the area's beaches or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Main Street Santa Monica
During your trip to Los Angeles, you can do some window-shopping at Main Street Santa Monica. Stroll along this family-friendly area's beaches or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Original Muscle Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Original Muscle Beach during your travels in Santa Monica? Wander the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.
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