The Theme Building, Westside Travel Guide

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Discover the iconic Theme Building, a historical landmark showcasing stunning Googie architecture at Los Angeles International Airport.

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The Theme Building

The Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport is a striking example of Googie architecture. Its futuristic design and rich history make it a must-visit landmark for tourists. Enjoy its unique structure and learn about its significance in aviation history.

A brief summary to The Theme Building

201 World Way, Los Angeles, Westchester, California, 90045, US
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Monday 7 am-8:30 pm
Tuesday 7 am-8:30 pm
Wednesday 7 am-8:30 pm
Thursday 7 am-8:30 pm
Friday 7 am-8:30 pm
Saturday 7 am-8:30 pm
Sunday 7 am-8:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Theme Building.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Check the airport's website for any special events or exhibitions related to the Theme Building.
Bring binoculars to better enjoy the airplane traffic and scenic views.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the surrounding area as well.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

The Museum of Jurassic Technology

California Heritage Museum

The Wende Museum

Santa Monica Pier

Will Rogers State Historic Park

Explore The Theme Building on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Theme Building, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Bus

From Santa Monica, head to the nearest bus stop. You can take the Big Blue Bus route 3 towards the 'LAX City Bus Center'. Board the bus and stay on until you reach the stop at 'LAX City Bus Center'. From there, transfer to the FlyAway Bus service toward 'LAX'. After about 10-15 minutes, you will arrive at the Airport. Once at LAX, follow the signs to the Theme Building, which is a short walk from the terminal area.
Bicycle

If you're up for a bike ride, you can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Santa Monica. Start from the Santa Monica Pier and head east on Ocean Park Boulevard. Continue straight until you reach Lincoln Boulevard (CA-1). Turn left and follow Lincoln Boulevard south until you reach the airport area. Look for signs directing you to the LAX Theme Building, which is located near the airport terminals.
Walking

Walking is not recommended to LAX from Santa Monica due to the distance (about 8 miles). However, if you are determined, start at the Santa Monica Pier and walk east on Ocean Avenue, then turn left onto Santa Monica Boulevard. Continue until you reach Lincoln Boulevard, then head south. You'll eventually reach the airport area. Keep an eye out for the Theme Building signs once you approach LAX.
Rideshare (e.g., Uber, Lyft)

For a more comfortable option, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your pickup location as your current location in Santa Monica. Enter '201 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045' as your destination. The driver will take you directly to the Theme Building at LAX, which should take around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Discover more about The Theme Building

The Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of mid-20th century America. Completed in 1961, this architectural marvel showcases the Googie style, characterized by its bold, futuristic lines and vibrant color palette. As you approach this iconic structure, you'll be captivated by its towering presence, which resembles a flying saucer resting on four slender legs. This landmark is not just a feast for the eyes; it offers a glimpse into the golden age of air travel, when flying was considered an adventure. Visitors to the Theme Building can explore its surroundings and take stunning photographs against the backdrop of the Los Angeles skyline. While the building itself is not currently open for public tours, its exterior remains a popular destination for travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike. The viewing area around the Theme Building provides a perfect vantage point for watching planes take off and land, making it a unique spot to appreciate the bustling activity of one of the world's busiest airports. In addition to its architectural significance, the Theme Building has a rich history, having served as a dining and observation area during its prime. Although the restaurant inside is closed, the structure itself is a reminder of LAX's evolution over the decades. If you're in the area, make sure to stop by and appreciate this iconic landmark that has become a symbol of Los Angeles's vibrant culture and history.