Highlights
Join an expert-led tour to uncover downtown Santa Monica's historical and architectural gems while soaking in the local culture
About This Deal
- Guided TourDowntown Santa Monica
- 2-Hour DurationWalking tour
Experience an unforgettable journey through Santa Monica's rich history with our guided walking tour. Why settle for ordinary when you can immerse yourself in stories of yesteryears? Discover hidden gems, learn intriguing facts, and connect with the past in ways you never imagined.
What We Offer
Choose between a two-hour walking tour for two or four people. Explore historical sites throughout downtown Santa Monica and enjoy an engaging experience filled with fascinating insights into the city's heritage.
Tour for Two
$10.00
A comprehensive tour exploring historical sites in downtown Santa Monica.
Tour for Four
$20.00
Ideal for families or groups wanting to delve into local history together.
Why You Should Grab the Offer
- Historic Shotgun House: Step back in time and see one of the last intact shotgun houses in town.
- Cultural Depth: Engage with local arts through initiatives like MOSAIC.
- Inspiring Artworks: Discover significant art through a collaboration with the Great Wall of Los Angeles.
- Support Preservation: Support advocacy efforts that protect vital cultural sites like the iconic Civic Auditorium.
Fine Print
About Santa Monica Conservancy
Established: 2009
Reservations/Appointments: Recommended
Staff Size: 2–10 people
Average Duration of Services: 2–4 hours
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and a hat. We are walking on city streets.
Handicap Accessible: Yes
Parking: Parking garage
Recommended Age Group: All Ages
Q&A with the Walking Tour Coordinator
What special training do you or your staff have?
_ We were all trained by the Santa Monica Conservancy over a three-month period in 2009. We learned the lively history of Santa Monica, became acquainted with the historical and architecturally significant buildings and heard stories about the colorful characters who built Santa Monica: miners, railroad barons, cowboys, sailors, movie actors and directors, body builders and gangsters._
I'm a first-timer. How do you get me ready for the experience?
_We meet at 1436 Second Street in Santa Monica, the location of the oldest structure in Santa Monica: an 1875 saloon. We greet people and tell them where the restroom is located. While waiting to begin, we point out the "ghost signage" on the side wall of the Rapp Saloon. This old building has seen a lot of activity. There are hand-painted fragments on the wall indicating that it used to be Salvation Army Hall, Police Station, City Hall, a produce market, automotive parts store and the headquarters of Vitagraph films.
Since we are walking through downtown Santa Monica, we are concerned about pedestrian safety and emphasize obeying all traffic signals. We ask people to please silence their cell phones._
What is the one feature of your business that you're most proud of?
We call our tour "A Walk Through History". We are also an architectural tour as there are are some fine buildings in Santa Monica. Personally, I am most proud when, at the end of the tour, someone says "You really brought the past alive".
Is there anything else you want to add that we didn't cover?
_ There are some surprises along the way, but if we put them in the ad then they will no longer be a surprise._
