THE ICONIC SANTA MONICA PIER CELEBRATES 115 YEARS
SANTA MONICA, Calif. (September 3, 2024) – A world-famous symbol of Southern California, the iconic Santa Monica Pier is marking 115 years delighting visitors with a celebratory event on September 6.
First debuting on September 9, 1909, the Santa Monica Pier quickly evolved into a popular fishing and boating destination. In 1916, amusement park developer Charles Looff of Coney Island fame saw the Pier’s potential as an entertainment hub, and oversaw the addition of a second pier featuring a bowling and billiards hall, a lively ballroom and a beautiful carousel that is still standing today. The Looff Hippodrome building on the south end of the Pier houses 44 hand-carved horses welcoming guests to step into the Santa Monica Pier’s storied past.
In 1940, more amusement park rides opened on the Santa Monica Pier and soon the iconic neon sign welcoming visitors to the Pier was constructed. However, the Pier fell on hard times through the decades that threatened to close the local landmark. In response, Santa Monica residents unified to “Save the Pier,” calling for restoration of the beloved Pier. As a result, reinforcements were constructed to strengthen the Pier, and the Looff Hippodrome building and carousel were designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark.
Pacific Park then debuted on the Santa Monica Pier in 1996, welcoming visitors with thrill rides, midway games and the world’s first and only solar-powered Ferris wheel. Pacific Park is now home to 12 rides for thrill seekers of all ages, ranging from the family-friendly Inkie’s Wave Jumper to sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean on the exciting West Coaster. The all-new eatery area Snackville recently debuted at Pacific Park, serving up elevated amusement park flavors with concepts including savory snacks at Smashie’s Burgers or refreshing sweet treats at eegee’s. Visitors can also win the ultimate souvenir prize at Pacific Park’s boardwalk-style games, testing their skills with vibrant midway games like Pier Planko, Mini Hoops and Starfish Water Race.
Today, the Santa Monica Pier welcomes millions of visitors each year to enjoy the unmatched ocean views and Southern California culture. The Pier remains an iconic symbol of the California coast and a pillar of the Santa Monica community, welcoming visitors and locals to celebrate with a 115th Birthday Celebration. This free event on September 6 will feature live music and performances, birthday treats, family activities, community partners and an outdoor screening of “Barbie” for a fun-filled evening of celebration.
To learn more about the Santa Monica Pier, visit:
santamonica.com/things-to-do/visiting-santa-monica-pier.
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About Santa Monica Travel & Tourism
Santa Monica Travel & Tourism (SMTT) is a non-profit organization designed to increase visitor expenditures, tourism revenues and local employment opportunities through the promotion of Santa Monica as a travel destination. For more information visit santamonica.com, email info@santamonica.com, or follow SMTT on Instagram (@SeeSantaMonica), X (@GoSantaMonica) or Facebook (@VisitSantaMonica).
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Emily Ohara
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