What to do in Santa Monica?

[albianne]

My H would like to take the drive from DL to Santa Monica one day, according to mapquest it is only 40 miles away and 45 minutes, but that probably does not account for LA traffic. Can anyone advise how long this drive would realistically take, plus anything of interest that we should look at while we are there, thanks

Albi

 

[PIESHOPS]

not sure about driving time, but the pier is fun, there are places to eat rides, games etc and a great view

 

[kitsch]

Realistically, it should take you a good hour to get from DL to SM. The only thing that is of historic interest might be the Santa Monica Pier. http://www.santamonicapier.org/

Besides that, many just come here to shop, eat and experience the So Cal lifestyle.

One of the best places to start is the 3rd Street Promenade (10 min from the pier). It’s a pedestrian only street filled with shops, restaurants, movie theatres and street performers. Unfortunately, many of the shops are those you can find at your local mall, but the people watching is great.
http://www.downtownsm.com/bshopping.html

For something funkier and less touristy, I suggest hitting Main St. which has more independent stores and cafes that serve the local artist community.
http://www.mainstreetsm.com/main.walk.html

Oh, and don’t forget the Venice Boarwalk nearby.
http://www.westland.net/venice/

If you love classic art, then you might want to head up PCH to the Getty Villa in Malibu. Be sure to make reservations in advance.
http://www.getty.edu/visit/

 

[minnietoo]

My H would like to take the drive from DL to Santa Monica one day, according to mapquest it is only 40 miles away and 45 minutes, but that probably does not account for LA traffic. Can anyone advise how long this drive would realistically take, plus anything of interest that we should look at while we are there, thanks

Albi

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depends on the day and time. I would at least double what mapquest says - and be happy if it takes less time.

 

[Judy from Boise]

Moving this to our So Cal board so you can see more information

 

[tracys2cents]

Sat or Sun would be best. Usually much less traffic, and Disneyland is more crowded on those days.
But you could get behind an accident scene any day really, luck of the draw. 45 minutes if you're dang lucky, 90 minutes when you're not!

 

[honeymom]

Get breakfast at the Rose Cafe in Venice - it's great.

Also, a fun people watching street to walk on and shop (or at least window shop, it's pricey) is Montana.

For a dive breakfast that's cheap and good, try Callahan's. I can't remember for sure, but it might be on Wilshire.

I think Santa Monica is best for strolling, hanging out and people watching. Don't forget to check out the beaches and the pier is fun.

 

[judah123]

Third Street promenade is a great place to shop, dine, or catch a movie. There are always street performers out and the atmosphere is lively. Its less than 10 minutes waling from the pier.

 

[woody73]

If you love classic art, then you might want to head up PCH to the Getty Villa in Malibu. Be sure to make reservations in advance.

The Getty Villa is a good suggestion. Lovely collection of Greek and Roman antiquities.

I also recommend the Getty Center. No reservations required.

Woody