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Catalina Casino: Avalon's Iconic Landmark

Explore the iconic Catalina Casino: a historic landmark with a grand ballroom and state-of-the-art theater on beautiful Catalina Island.

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The Catalina Casino, a towering Art Deco and Mediterranean Revival building, has been a symbol of Catalina Island since 1929. Despite its name, it has never hosted gambling; instead, it offers a movie theater and a ballroom. Its unique architecture and rich history make it a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Catalina Casino

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as visiting the Casino requires uphill walking inside.
  • Check the schedule for the Avalon Theatre's weekly feature and hear the historic pipe organ on Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Step out onto the Romance Promenade encircling the ballroom for spectacular views of Avalon.
  • Consider the VIP Backstage Tour for access to exclusive areas and a deeper dive into the Casino's history.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Avalon ferry terminal, the Catalina Casino is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head south along Crescent Avenue, the main street along the waterfront. Continue as it curves along the bay, passing the Green Pleasure Pier. The Casino will become visible ahead, a large, round building at the end of the bay. Follow the road as it ascends slightly towards the Casino. There are no costs associated with walking to the Casino.

  • Public Transport

    The City of Avalon Seaside Transit (COAST) offers on-demand, point-to-point rides within Avalon. Download the 'Ride Circuit' app to request a ride. Fares start at $2 per rider. The COAST can pick you up from the ferry terminal or anywhere within Avalon and drop you off near the Casino. Keep in mind that service hours are typically from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available at the Avalon ferry terminal and at the taxi stand on the corner of Crescent and Metropole Avenues. All taxis on Catalina Island are white seven-passenger vans. You can also call for a taxi dispatch at (310) 510-0025. A taxi ride from the ferry terminal to the Catalina Casino is a short trip within Avalon. Taxi fares within Avalon are flat-rate based, but there is also a meter rate available upon request. There is also a $3 road maintenance fee added to every taxi fare. Additional passengers beyond the first two incur a $1 per person charge.

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Discover more about Catalina Casino

The Catalina Casino, a prominent landmark in Avalon, is more than just a building; it's a symbol of Catalina Island's history and culture. Completed in 1929 under the direction of William Wrigley Jr., the Casino stands on the site formerly known as Sugarloaf Point. The structure, designed by Sumner Spaulding and Walter Weber, showcases a blend of Art Deco and Mediterranean Revival styles. The name 'casino' comes from the Italian term meaning 'gathering place,' and contrary to popular belief, it has never been a gambling facility. Inside, the Casino houses the Avalon Theatre, which was among the first theaters designed specifically for films with sound. The theater's design, including its acoustics and domed ceiling, was so impressive that it influenced the design of Radio City Music Hall in New York. The Casino also features a world-famous ballroom that once hosted thousands of dancers grooving to the sounds of big band music. The ballroom is the world's largest circular room without supporting pillars. Visitors can explore the Casino through general admission tours, which include the Avalon Theater, the Marine Bar, the Wrigley Ballroom, and the Ocean Promenade. VIP backstage tours offer exclusive access to areas once closed to the public, such as the Stars' Dressing Rooms and the Directors' Projection Booth. The Catalina Casino's rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination on Catalina Island.

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