The Santa Monica Pier Carousel is an old carousel and Looff Hippodrome parking carousel (1922) that is boarded within the iconic pier building. It has hand-carved wooden horses, luxurious chariots, and traditional organ music that reminds one of the beauty of early 20th-century Amusement at the beach. It has become a great iconic representation of the cultural heritage of Santa Monica, a National Historic Landmark. The carousel is also known to be constructed by a recognised carousel maker known as Charles I.D. Looff, and also featured in films like The Sting and Forrest Gump.
What Can You Do at the Santa Monica Pier Carousel?
The following are the primary activities that you can have in this historic attraction:
- Ride the Carousel: Tourists can take a traditional ride on the beautifully hand-carved wooden horses. The experience has a nostalgic nature with references to early amusement-park trends. It provides a happy experience to both young and adult people seeking a classic beach experience.
- Explore the Looff Hippodrome Building: Visitors can also visit the Hippodrome, a historic building with colourful architecture and historical details. The construction itself is a significant tourist attraction due to its cultural value. Its architecture can give us a preview of the early entertainment history in Santa Monica.
- Visit the Small Exhibit Area: The building has an inside exhibit that allows tourists to learn the history of the carousel. The exhibition consists of photos, antiques, and information boards concerning its construction and restoration. It gives the visit an educational component and enhances appreciation of the landmark.
- Take Family Photos: Friends and families can take memorable photos around the colourful carousel and the old-fashioned beauty. The location offers an ideal background for joyful portraits. A lot of visitors take a gadget to record their experience during their day on the pier.
- Relax and Listen to Music: Visitors can sit close to each other and listen to the calming tune of the old carousel organ music. The music sets a relaxing and nostalgic mood for any person who goes on a short vacation at the hectic pier. It is a simple form of relaxation and keeping up with the environment.
What are the Ticket Prices and Entry Information?
The carousel rides are priced at approximately $2-$3 per ride according to the seasonal changes. No entry fee is charged because the carousel is located within the Santa Monica pier, which is accessible to all. They also accept cash or card payments, which are very convenient for all visitors.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
It is best visited between the hours of 10 AM and 12 PM when there are fewer crowds and families with children have peace of mind. Afternoon time, between 12 PM and 4 PM, is a vibrant time with lots of pier activity around the carousel. Between 5 PM and 8 PM, the sunset light makes it even more nostalgic. Weekdays or out-of-season months are better in terms of shorter waits.
How to Get to the Santa Monica Pier Carousel?
There are many ways of reaching the Santa Monica Pier Carousel without any inconveniences:
- By Car: The Santa Monica Pier Carousel is accessible either via Ocean Avenue or the I-10 West. Parking is provided at Lot 1 North and the Pier deck and the nearby city lots which typically range between $10 to $20 per day based on the day. Evenings and weekends can be crowded and to avoid traffic, it is better to arrive earlier and get parking easily.
- By Metro: Take the Metro E Line and exit at the Downtown Santa Monica Station. The Pier is within 10 minutes walking down Colorado Avenue. The price of a one-way fare using a TAP card is $1.75. The Metro is more convenient to tourists as they do not need to get into traffic congestion trying to get to the beach or spend time in overcrowded parking lots.
- By Bus: Big Blue bus lines 1, 2, 3M and Metro Rapid line 704 are also available and they stop near the entrance of the Pier on Ocean Avenue. The average fare is between $1.25 and $1.75 per ride. Visitors who arrive at UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles), Westwood, or mid-city neighbourhoods can also use buses, since it is an easy way to get there without the hassle of parking a car.
- By Bike or Scooter: The bikes and electric scooters in the Santa Monica community can be easily used to travel to the Pier using the beach bike path or local roads. There are parking racks and drop zones close to the entrance of the Pier. It is a great choice when one is travelling along the coastline or when travelling between the local sites of interest, such as Palisades Park and Third Street Promenade.
- By Limo Service: Limousine service Los Angeles, like Area Limo Service Los Angeles and Crown Limo LA have a comfortable drop off along Ocean Avenue, directly opposite the entrance at the Pier. The costs usually fall in the range of $60 to $120 based on distance and the type of car. Limo service can be ideal with families, date nights or anyone who wants to arrive at the historical carousel in a smooth, stress-free environment.
How Accessible Are the Facilities at the Santa Monica Pier Carousel?
There is a ramp that provides direct access to the building of the Looff Hippodrome and all visitors can easily get into it. There are a number of outdoor benches and shaded areas around the carousel and the pier deck where one can rest. The parking place is conveniently situated at Lot 1 North, which is near the entrance to the Pier. The clean and convenient toilets are only steps away from the carousel, and the whole pier space suits strollers and small families.
Where to Eat & Drink Near the Santa Monica Pier Carousel?
The food and drink options around the Santa Monica Pier Carousel are the following:
- Pier Burger: This is a fast food restaurant with a menu of classic burgers, fries, hot dogs, and milkshakes. They can have a quick bite in between or after they ride on the carousel. It is also family-friendly and tourist-friendly due to its relaxed beachside feel. The cost generally varies between $8 and $15 per product.
- The Albright: The Albright is a fresh seafood, sandwiches and salads restaurant on the pier. Visitors have the option of dining with a view of the ocean in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The prices of menu items typically range between $12 and $25.
- Blue Plate Taco: It is an energetic restaurant focusing on Mexican cuisine, such as tacos, quesadillas, and margaritas. The vibrant decor and informal atmosphere make it ideal with groups of people and families. The price is usually between $10 and $20 per dish.
- Soda Jerks: Soda Jerks is an ice cream store within the Carousel building that sells milkshakes and sweet items. It is a good take-home dessert when one visits the carousel, priced between $5 and $10.
- Del Frisco’s Grille: It is a modern American grill that offers various cuisines such as steaks, sandwiches, and cocktails. It suits visitors who want to have a higher-end dining experience along the pier. The cost is between $15 and $35 per entree.
Is Santa Monica Pier Carousel Worth Visiting?
The Santa Monica Pier Carousel is worth visiting for locals and tourists, it is a blend of history, art, and entertainment. Tourists can relax in the colourful hand-carved horses, colourful music and energetic atmosphere as they absorb the ocean scenes. It offers a family-friendly, fun activity that is enjoyed by everyone, and leaves lasting memories at the legendary Santa Monica Pier.
