Downtown Santa Monica: A Vibrant Coastal Experience
Experience the vibrant shopping, dining, and coastal charm of Downtown Santa Monica, a premier destination for tourists in Southern California.
A brief summary to Downtown Santa Monica
- 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, Downtown, California, 90401, US
- +1310-393-8355
Downtown Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Southern California. This bustling shopping mall is located just steps away from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, offering a unique blend of retail, dining, and entertainment options. The centerpiece of Downtown Santa Monica is the Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-friendly boulevard lined with an array of shops ranging from high-end boutiques to popular retail chains. Visitors can spend hours strolling through the promenade, discovering unique finds, and enjoying the lively street performances that often take place. In addition to shopping, Downtown Santa Monica boasts a diverse culinary scene. Visitors can indulge in everything from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences, with many restaurants offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The area is particularly known for its fresh seafood and farm-to-table options, allowing tourists to savor the local flavors of California. As the sun sets, the ambiance transforms, offering a vibrant nightlife with bars and lounges perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Beyond shopping and dining, Downtown Santa Monica is also home to beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. The nearby Palisades Park features stunning ocean views and is an excellent spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Additionally, the proximity to the beach allows visitors to enjoy sunbathing, beach volleyball, and various water sports. With its perfect blend of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, Downtown Santa Monica is an essential stop for anyone visiting the area.
Local tips
- Visit during the evening to enjoy live street performances and a lively atmosphere.
- Explore the local art installations scattered throughout the area for a unique cultural experience.
- Don't miss out on the nearby Santa Monica Pier for classic amusement rides and stunning sunset views.
- Plan your visit on a Sunday for the Santa Monica Farmers Market, showcasing fresh local produce and artisanal goods.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're at Santa Monica Pier, start by walking east along Ocean Avenue. Continue on Ocean Avenue until you reach Colorado Avenue. Turn right onto Colorado Avenue and walk straight until you reach 3rd Street Promenade. Turn left onto 3rd Street Promenade, and you will find Downtown Santa Monica at 1351 3rd Street Promenade.
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Public Transit (Big Blue Bus)
Find the nearest Big Blue Bus stop. If you're at the Santa Monica Pier, walk to the bus stop at Ocean Ave & Colorado Ave. Take the Big Blue Bus Line 1 or 8 heading towards Westside. Get off at the 3rd Street Promenade stop. From there, walk towards 1351 3rd Street Promenade, and you'll arrive at Downtown Santa Monica.
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Biking
If you have a bike, start at Santa Monica Beach and head towards the bike path along the beach. Follow the path until you reach the intersection with Colorado Avenue. Turn left on Colorado Avenue and bike straight until you reach 3rd Street Promenade. Once there, park your bike and walk to 1351 3rd Street Promenade to reach Downtown Santa Monica.
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Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft)
Open your ride-sharing app and set your destination to 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica. You can be picked up from your current location, and within a few minutes, you will be dropped off directly at Downtown Santa Monica.
Attractions Nearby to Downtown Santa Monica
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Cayton Children's Museum
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Greetings from Santa Monica Mural
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Santa Monica History Museum
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Sci-Fi World
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Santa Monica Statue
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Santa Monica Street Art
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Santa Monica Beach
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Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
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Santa Monica Pier Arch
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Tongva Park
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Heal the Bay Aquarium
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Santa Monica Pier Carousel
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Chess Park
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Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
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Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
Landmarks nearby to Downtown Santa Monica
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Downtown Santa Monica
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Clock Tower Building
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Will Rogers Highway Marker
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Santa Monica Place
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Edwin Building
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Beach Crossing Staircase
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Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
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Old Rte 66,
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City of Santa Monica
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Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
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Surf City Tours
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Christine Emerson Reed Park
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Route 66 End of the Trail
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Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
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Viceroy Santa Monica