Santa Monica Civic Auditorium: A Mid-Century Modern Landmark

Discover the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, a landmark of mid-century modern architecture with a rich history of hosting the Academy Awards and legendary performers, currently awaiting revitalization.

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Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, a mid-century modern architectural gem designed by Welton Becket, has been a cultural cornerstone since 1958. This landmark has hosted a diverse range of events, from the Academy Awards in the 1960s to concerts by legendary musicians. Though currently closed for revitalization, its historical significance and architectural beauty continue to draw attention. Located in the heart of Santa Monica's Civic Center, the auditorium is surrounded by the city's vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts and those interested in the city's rich cultural history. Its central location offers easy access to nearby attractions, including the famous Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The auditorium stands as a testament to Santa Monica's commitment to arts and culture.

A brief summary to Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

1855 Main St, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
+1310-458-8551
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Local tips

Check the official City of Santa Monica website for updates on the Civic Auditorium's revitalization progress and potential future events.
Explore the surrounding Santa Monica Civic Center area, including City Hall and nearby parks, to appreciate the architectural context of the auditorium.
Visit the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, both within walking distance, to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Getting There

Walking

From the Santa Monica Pier, walk east along Colorado Avenue towards Main Street. Turn left onto Main Street and walk north for approximately 5 blocks. The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium will be on your left, across from the Civic Center. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that the auditorium is currently closed.
Public Transport

From Downtown Santa Monica (4th St / Santa Monica Place), several Big Blue Bus lines (including 1, 2, 3, 7, 8) travel near the Civic Auditorium. Take any of these buses and exit at the Main Street & Pico Boulevard stop. The Auditorium will be visible to the north-east. A single ride on Big Blue Bus costs $1.10.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From any location in Santa Monica, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium is a convenient option. Simply provide the address (1855 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90401) to the driver. The ride typically costs between $8-$15 depending on the distance and traffic.
Driving

From the I-10 Freeway, exit at 4th Street. Head north on 4th Street. Turn right onto Olympic Drive, then turn right onto Main Street. The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium will be on your right. Limited street parking is available, but the Civic Center Parking Structure (333 Civic Center Dr) offers paid parking. Parking rates at the Civic Center Garage start at $0.50 per hour on weekdays, with higher rates on weekends and during special events.

Discover more about Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, located at 1855 Main Street, stands as a testament to mid-century modern architecture and a vibrant history of cultural events. Designed by the renowned architect Welton Becket, also known for his work on the Capitol Records building and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, the auditorium opened in 1958 as a central gathering place for the community. For eight years, from 1961 to 1968, the Civic Auditorium was the esteemed host of the Academy Awards. These were transformative years for both the venue and the film industry. The auditorium witnessed Sidney Poitier's historic Best Actor win and Rita Moreno's Best Supporting Actress win, marking significant milestones for people of color in the entertainment world. In 1966, it was also the site of the first Academy Awards broadcast in color. However, the era wasn't without its challenges; the auditorium was also the location of the first protest by Black actors against the industry's mistreatment and the 1968 ceremony was postponed due to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. Beyond the Academy Awards, the Civic Auditorium has been a stage for an incredible array of musical talent. Legendary artists such as Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, James Brown, The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, The Supremes, The Doors, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen, and U2 have all graced its stage. Its versatile hydraulic floor, the largest of its kind at the time, allowed the venue to transform from a concert hall to a sporting arena or trade show space with ease. The auditorium's superior acoustics, designed by a UCLA physics professor, further enhanced its reputation as a premier performance venue. The Civic also served the local community, hosting events for the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District and various non-profit organizations. Trade shows and consumer exhibits, such as the International Gem & Jewelry Show and the Contemporary Crafts Market, brought thousands of visitors to Santa Monica. Despite its rich history, the Civic Auditorium faced challenges in later years. By the 2000s, it was operating at an annual deficit, and in 2013, it was closed due to the need for significant seismic and accessibility improvements. Plans for a major renovation were put on hold when redevelopment funds were withdrawn during a state fiscal crisis. Today, the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium remains a landmark, designated as a City Landmark in 2001. The City of Santa Monica is actively seeking partnerships to revitalize the venue, with the goal of restoring it as a vibrant cultural and community hub. The Civic Auditorium stands as a reminder of Santa Monica's commitment to the arts and its significant place in entertainment history. While it is currently closed, its architectural beauty and historical importance make it a point of interest for those visiting the area. Its location within the Civic Center, near other attractions and amenities, adds to its appeal as a destination worth exploring. The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium's architectural design is a prime example of the Mid-Century Modern International Style. Designed by Welton Becket, the building features clean lines, a focus on functionality, and a seamless integration with its surroundings. The auditorium is part of a complex that includes Santa Monica City Hall and the Los Angeles County Courthouse, all aligned on Main Street. The building's facade, with its imposing presence on the street, is a significant visual element of the Civic Center. The large bronze dedication plaque on the main wall serves as a reminder of the auditorium's importance to the community. The auditorium's interior spaces were designed to be flexible and adaptable. The hydraulic floor allowed for quick changes between different types of events, and the soundproof sliding doors leading to the East Wing community room provided additional space for meetings and banquets. The east patio served as a circulation hub, connecting the auditorium to parking, drop-off areas, and entrances to the community room. Despite some minor alterations over the years, such as the removal of the ornamental pond and the enlargement of the box office, the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium retains a high degree of historic integrity. Its location, design, materials, and workmanship all contribute to its significance as a landmark of mid-century modern architecture. As the City of Santa Monica moves forward with plans to revitalize the Civic Auditorium, there is renewed hope that this iconic venue will once again become a vibrant center for arts, culture, and community events. Its rich history, architectural significance, and central location make it a valuable asset to the city and a destination worth preserving for future generations.

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Santa Monica Civic Auditorium: A Mid-Century Modern Landmark

A brief summary to Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Viceroy Santa Monica

City of Santa Monica

Horatio Court (Point of Interest - Architecture)

Santa Monica Place

Route 66 End of the Trail

Pacific Wheel

Santa Monica Conservancy

Shotgun House

Santa Monica Pier

Beach Crossing Staircase

California Heritage Museum

Clock Tower Building

Will Rogers Highway Marker

Downtown Santa Monica

Dorothy Green Park

Unmissable attractions to see

Historic Belmar Park

Crescent Bay Park

Tongva Park

Surf City Tours

Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica

Chess Park

Sci-Fi World

Santa Monica Street Art

The Bike Center Santa Monica

Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica

Santa Monica Pier Arch

Hotchkiss Park

Greetings from Santa Monica Mural

Heal the Bay Aquarium

Santa Monica Pier Carousel

Essential places to dine

Sugar Palm Santa Monica

Capo

Sol Agave - santa monica

Cha Cha Chicken

Coast

1 Pico

Terrazza

Chez Jay

Bruno's Italian Restaurant

The Lobster

RED O CANTINA

THE Curious PALATE

True Food Kitchen

Seaside on the Pier

The Albright

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lost & Found

Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica

UNIQLO Santa Monica Place

Kathmandu Boutique

Free People

Johnny Was

OK Santa Monica

66-To-Cali

Beachcomber Gift Cart

Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop

Oatman Rock Shop

Sand 'n Surf

LA Gift Stop

Pier Gear

Urban Outfitters

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Living Room

The Backyard