Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome: A Carousel of History
Step back in time at the Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a beautifully restored National Historic Landmark on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of seaside amusement.
The Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a National Historic Landmark on the Santa Monica Pier, is more than just a building; it's a portal to a bygone era of seaside amusement. Built in 1916 by Charles I.D. Looff, it originally housed a Looff carousel, later replaced by a 1922 Philadelphia Toboggan Company carousel. This architectural gem, with its eclectic California-Byzantine-Moorish design, has been meticulously restored, offering visitors a chance to experience the magic of early 20th-century amusement parks. Beyond the carousel, the Hippodrome's rich history includes a stint as a film location for "The Sting," adding to its allure. Open daily, the Hippodrome provides a nostalgic escape and a glimpse into the vibrant past of the Santa Monica Pier, making it a must-see for history buffs and families alike. The pier itself is open from 6 AM to 10 PM, offering ample time to explore this iconic landmark.
A brief summary to Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
- 1619 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
Local tips
- Check the operating hours of the carousel before your visit, as they vary depending on the day and season.
- Take advantage of the wheelchair-friendly path along the pier for easy access to the Hippodrome and other attractions.
- Visit during the off-season or on weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Explore the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, located beneath the carousel, to discover local marine life.
- Enjoy a sunset stroll along the pier after your visit to the Hippodrome for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line Station (4th and Colorado), walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the pier. Cross Ocean Avenue and continue onto the pier. The Hippodrome is located towards the beginning of the pier on the right-hand side. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers scenic views.
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Public Transport
Several Big Blue Bus and Metro bus lines stop near the Santa Monica Pier at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. From the bus stop, walk onto the pier. The Hippodrome will be on your right. Big Blue Bus local trips are $1.25 each way. Metro Buses are $1.75 one way or $7 to ride all day.
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Driving
If driving, approach the pier via Ocean Avenue or Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). From Ocean Avenue, turn onto Colorado Avenue and follow the signs to the pier. From PCH, exit towards the California Incline and turn right onto Ocean Avenue, then right onto the pier. Parking is available in several lots near the pier, including the Pier Deck Parking Lot (limited availability, $1-$2 per hour) and the beach lot north of the pier (Lot 1 North, $10 per hour, $25 daily maximum). Parking rates vary and are subject to change. Consider parking in Downtown Santa Monica garages (free for the first 1.5 hours, then $2/hour) and walking to the pier.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
When using a taxi or ride-sharing service, set your destination to 1550 Appian Way to be dropped off near the beach, avoiding congestion on Ocean Avenue. From there, access the pier deck via stairs or wheelchair-accessible ramps. A short ride from downtown Santa Monica will typically cost $10-$15, depending on traffic.
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