Los Angeles, California
The Santa Monica Pier is an iconic double-jointed pier located at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica. Since its opening in 1909, it has served as a landmark destination for entertainment, dining, and classic seaside fun, marking the official end of the legendary Route 66.
The pier's most famous feature is Pacific Park, an admission-free amusement park home to the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel. Other highlights include the historic 1922 Looff Hippodrome Carousel, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, and the iconic "End of the Trail" Route 66 sign.
Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides at Pacific Park, play vintage games at the Playland Arcade, or fish off the end of the pier. Dining options range from classic boardwalk snacks to sit-down seafood restaurants. The pier also hosts free concerts and outdoor movies during the summer months.
Late afternoon is ideal to catch a spectacular sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and the pier is lively year-round thanks to Santa Monica's mild climate.
Entry to the Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park is free. Rides, games, the aquarium, and the carousel require individual tickets or wristbands. The pier is open 24 hours a day, though business hours for attractions vary.
Facilities include numerous restaurants and snack bars, souvenir shops, public restrooms, an amusement park, an aquarium, and a visitor center. Parking is available in lots directly on the pier and in nearby city structures.
Take the Metro E Line from Downtown LA for a stress-free trip to the beach. For the best photo, stand near the Santa Monica Yacht Harbor neon sign at the pier entrance. Consider walking to the nearby Third Street Promenade for more shopping and dining.
Nearby attractions include Santa Monica State Beach, the Third Street Promenade, Venice Beach (accessible via a scenic beach path), and the upscale shops of Santa Monica Place.