Santa Monica Pier Activities
The Santa Monica Pier began its journey of fun and frivolity on September 9, 1909, after 16 months of construction. The over a century-old pier is located at the foot of Colorado Avenue in this beachside city in Los Angeles County, California. It offers a wide range of attractions, including Pacific Park, a full-service amusement park.
There is a lot you can do at the Santa Monica Pier:
Pacific Park is the only family amusement park on the United States’ West Coast located on a pier. It’s also the only admission-free park in Los Angeles. This amusement park has a lot to offer people of all ages, including an iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel.
This brightly lit, red and yellow wheel can be seen from a long distance, and it’s the only one of its kind in the region. Pacific Park is also chock-full with games, rides, food, and all sorts of family fun.
If you are a gaming enthusiast, you can enjoy one of a vast offering of games at the Playland Arcade. This iconic entertainment facility offers at least 200 different games for the enjoyment of the entire family. You will have an opportunity to enjoy some old-school pastimes, like pinball and Skeeball. The arcade also offers a range of both classic and the latest video games.
Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is located right under the carousel building. This small aquarium is the education center of HealtheBay.org, an organization that promotes ocean conservation and protecting the creatures that live in it.
With over 100 species of marine animals on display, hands-on activities for kids, and a range of educational programs, this is the perfect place to learn about ocean life without getting your feet wet. Your children will undoubtedly enjoy the touch tanks and other hands-on exhibits.
The aquarium is only open to the public in the afternoons, and it is typically closed on Mondays. And take note: Do not confuse Santa Monica Pier Aquarium with the Aquarium of the Pacific, which is found in Long Beach.
The Route 66 “End of the Trail” sign is a favorite spot for selfie enthusiasts-stop here for some fun photos. It’s worth noting, however, that the Santa Monica Pier is not the actual end of Route 66.
While this spot was designated as the end of Route 66 in 2009 during the Pier’s 100th-anniversary celebration, Route 66 actually ends where it intersects with Highway 1.
If you are looking for an ideal place to hold a private party on the pier, you can’t go wrong with the historic carousel. Located in the Hippodrome, the carousel was constructed in the 1920s, and it pairs well with treats from the soda-fountain found inside.
The Santa Monica Pier is the only authentic amusement pier remaining in Southern California. The pier is one of the most notable landmarks in the Los Angeles area, as it has been featured in virtually every movie and TV show that is set in Los Angeles County. There’s a wide range of activities on the pier, including games, fishing, yoga, and more.