Catalina Chimes Tower: A Melodic Landmark

Experience the melodic charm and panoramic views of Avalon from the historic Catalina Chimes Tower, a beloved landmark since 1925, offering a unique glimpse into Catalina Island's rich heritage.

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Catalina Chimes Tower

Perched high above Avalon on Catalina Island, the Catalina Chimes Tower is a historic landmark offering stunning views and a unique auditory experience. Built in 1925 by William Wrigley Jr. and his wife Ada, the Spanish-style tower houses a set of Westminster chimes gifted to the town. The chimes, originally played every 15 minutes, now ring from 8 am to 8 pm, their melodic tones echoing across Avalon. A climb to the tower provides panoramic vistas of the harbor, the iconic Casino, and the charming town below. While the walk is moderately strenuous, the reward is well worth the effort, offering a glimpse into Catalina's rich history and a chance to enjoy its serene beauty. The Chimes Tower is a must-visit for those seeking a blend of history, scenery, and a touch of old-world charm.

A brief summary to Catalina Chimes Tower

Chimes Tower Rd, Avalon, California, 90704, US
Visit website

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to the tower; the incline can be steep.
Visit around noon to hear the full ringing of the chimes.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Avalon and the harbor.
Check the Catalina Chimes Tower Foundation website for information on special events or restoration updates.
Consider visiting the nearby Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel for another historical perspective and unique architecture.

Getting There

Walking

From the Avalon ferry terminal or Crescent Avenue, follow the waterfront towards the Catalina Casino. Pass through the 'Via Casino' archway and continue uphill, following Chimes Tower Road. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and involves a moderately steep incline. Look for the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel on your left as you approach the tower. There are no costs associated with walking to the tower.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis are readily available at the Avalon ferry terminal and throughout Avalon. A taxi ride to the Chimes Tower from the ferry terminal or Crescent Avenue will take approximately 5-10 minutes. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for the ride, depending on traffic and the starting point. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft do not operate on Catalina Island.
Public Transport

The City of Avalon Seaside Transit (COAST) offers on-demand, point-to-point rides within Avalon city limits. Download the Ride Circuit app to request a ride. Fares start at $2 per rider, with an additional $2 per passenger, capped at $6 per group. Service operates from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Use the app to be picked up at the ferry terminal and dropped off near the Chimes Tower.

Discover more about Catalina Chimes Tower

The Catalina Chimes Tower, a beloved landmark on Catalina Island, stands as a testament to the island's rich history and the enduring legacy of the Wrigley family. Situated on a hill overlooking Avalon, the tower offers not only breathtaking panoramic views but also a unique auditory experience that has charmed visitors for nearly a century. In 1925, William Wrigley Jr., the chewing gum magnate who significantly shaped Catalina Island's development, and his wife, Ada Elizabeth Wrigley, purchased a set of Deagan Westminster chimes from the J.C. Deagan Company in Chicago. These chimes, known for their distinctive and melodic sound, were intended as a gift to the town of Avalon, adding another layer of character to the already enchanting island. The Wrigleys commissioned the construction of a Spanish-style tower to house the chimes, strategically positioning it on a hillside to ensure that their sound would resonate across the harbor and throughout the valley. The initial design featured four open arches, but to enhance the sound projection, two of the arches were later enclosed. The tower's design was also modified to reflect a Moorish fortress aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the Spanish explorers who first discovered Catalina Island. The chimes were first played in March 1926, and their melodic tones quickly became an integral part of Avalon's soundscape. Originally, the chimes rang every 15 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm, marking the passage of time and adding a touch of whimsy to daily life. They were also played upon the arrival and departure of the cross-channel steamships, the SS Catalina and SS Avalon, welcoming visitors to the island and bidding them farewell. Over the years, the Catalina Chimes Tower has become a symbol of Avalon, evoking a sense of nostalgia and timelessness. The chimes operate on a timer mechanism, and today, they ring from 8 am to 8 pm. Occasionally, the timer is set aside, and a local islander steps in to play special tunes for holidays and events, adding a personal touch to the tower's legacy. The climb to the Chimes Tower is a rewarding experience in itself. The path, accessible by foot, taxi, or golf cart, winds its way up the hillside, offering glimpses of Avalon's charming streets and stunning coastal scenery. The walk, though moderately strenuous due to the steep incline, is well worth the effort, providing a unique perspective on the town and its surroundings. From the Chimes Tower, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Avalon Harbor, the iconic Catalina Casino, and the surrounding hills. The vantage point is particularly popular for photography, capturing the essence of Catalina Island's beauty. Nearby, the Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel adds another layer of historical interest to the area. In recent years, the Catalina Chimes Tower has undergone restoration efforts to preserve its structural integrity and ensure its longevity. The Catalina Chimes Tower Foundation, a non-profit organization established in 2013, has been instrumental in these efforts, raising funds and overseeing the restoration process. The Foundation's mission is to restore and maintain the Chimes Tower and its chimes, ensuring that this beloved landmark continues to delight visitors and residents for generations to come. The restoration work has included cleaning, rebuilding concrete perimeter walls, and forging new wrought iron grates and fencing. Today, the Catalina Chimes Tower stands as a testament to the vision of the Wrigley family and the enduring appeal of Catalina Island. Its melodic chimes, stunning views, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the magic of Avalon. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned island traveler, the Catalina Chimes Tower offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Take the time to climb the hill, listen to the chimes, and soak in the breathtaking views. You'll be rewarded with a glimpse into Catalina's past and a renewed appreciation for its timeless beauty. The Catalina Chimes Tower is more than just a landmark; it's a symbol of Catalina Island's unique character and enduring charm. Its story is intertwined with the island's history, and its melodic chimes continue to resonate with visitors from around the world. A visit to the Chimes Tower is an opportunity to connect with the island's past, appreciate its present beauty, and ensure its future preservation. So, plan your visit to the Catalina Chimes Tower and discover the magic for yourself. Let the chimes transport you to another time and place, and let the stunning views inspire you to explore all that Catalina Island has to offer. You won't be disappointed.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Catalina Chimes Tower: A Melodic Landmark

A brief summary to Catalina Chimes Tower

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of Catalina Chimes Tower

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Catalina Chimes Tower

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Korean Friendship Bell

Los Angeles Harbor Light

Muller House Museum

Long Beach Light

430 Vincent Thomas Brg

Huntington Beach

Huntington City Beach

Huntington Beach Pier

Huntington Beach, California

Huntington Beach Accessibility Ramp Tile Mural

Huntington Beach Visitor Information

Pier Plaza and Amphitheatre

Visit Huntington Beach

Perqs

Lot 579

Unmissable attractions to see

CatalinaExpress

Casino Point Dive Park

Casino Ballroom

Catalina Casino

Island Spa Catalina

Catalina Falconry Experience

Catalina Food Tours

Catalina Aerial Adventure

Wrigley Fountain

Catalina Museum For Art & History

Wrigley Stage Avalon Bay Vista

Avalon Library

Catalina Island Company Ticket Booth

Green Pleasure Pier

Avalon

Essential places to dine

Naughty Fox

Katie's Kitchen

M Restaurant & Events

Cafe Metropole

Bluewater Avalon

Flx Biergarten

Catalina Cantina Jr.

El Galleon

Avalon Seafood & Fish Market

Earl and Rosie's Seafood Place

Maggie's Blue Rose Mexican

Steve's Steakhouse and Seafood

Pete's Avalon's Plaza Cafe

Eric's On The Pier

Avalon Grille

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Metropole Market Place

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Peggy's Gifts & Souvenirs

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Chill at Descanso Beach Club

Descanso Beach Club

Three Palms Avalon Arcade