17 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Santa Monica - Atlas Obscura

Unusual Attractions in Santa Monica

Santa Monica, California

Route 66 End of the Trail Sign

A sign at the end of the Santa Monica Pier marks the traditional end of the legendary American highway.

Santa Monica, California

Jadis

Legendary prop shop filled with one man's collection of scientific curiosities.

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica Camera Obscura

An offbeat angle on the ocean viewed through an antiquated lens.

Santa Monica, California

Farnam House

On a quiet suburban street stands a peculiarly decorated house covered in mosaics.

Santa Monica, California

Chez Jay

A treasure hunter's tiny bar, harboring celebrities since 1959.

Santa Monica, California

Frank Gehry Residence

Perhaps the most unique of any Frank Gehry design for one simple reason: Gehry himself actually lives here.

Santa Monica, California

International Chess Park

This well-traveled chess park offers scenic views of the pacific and a colorful, eclectic clientele.

Santa Monica, California

Georgian Hotel

One of the first skyscrapers in Santa Monica, and a famous getaway for the Hollywood elite of then and now.

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Upcoming Experiences Near Santa Monica

Lost and Long-Gone Graveyards of L.A.

Los Angeles, California

A Walking Tour of Hollywood Jazz History

Los Angeles, California

+ 4 other dates

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Santa Monica

Santa Monica, California

Chez Jay

A treasure hunter's tiny bar, harboring celebrities since 1959.

Santa Monica, California

The Galley

Santa Monica's oldest restaurant, decorated with set pieces from the Mutiny on the Bounty.

Atlas Obscura Trips

Art of Joshua Tree and the Mojave

Join us as we venture deep into the High Desert, glimpsing massive sculptures, fluorescent painted mountains, and revitalizing domes along the way.

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Stories About Santa Monica

Ricky Grigg, unknown, Vicki Williams, and Nick Gabaldón enjoying Malibu, California, ca. late 1940s–early 1950s.

The Legendary Black Surfer Who Challenged Stereotypes

In his short 24 years, Nick Gabaldón made an impact on California surfing culture that is still felt today.

October 4, 2018

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