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Local picks

Interesting spots in Santa Monica

Something interesting to do that actually breaks the routine instead of just offering a slightly different version of the same old thing.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Museum of Illusions image 1
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Museum features interactive exhibits with mind-bending illusions like the rotating tunnel. Atmosphere is bubbly and fun, perfect for kids and adults. Offers plenty of photo opportunities that keep visitors engaged and exploring.

Interesting illusions create a lot of fun moments. The place offers fun photo-ops that keep things engaging and unique.

People are saying

"It's a fun place to play with your mind and see unique objects."

"It's a fun place with lots of activities for the kids."

"The illusions here are really interesting and fun."

Good to know

1

Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children.

2

The museum is located on the third Street promenade.

3

Expect to spend about 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits.

02
Wonders of the World image 1

Store feels like a small museum with rare fossils and handcrafted jewelry. Atmosphere invites slow, thoughtful browsing. Collection offers unique, high-quality pieces that appeal to both collectors and casual shoppers.

A broad collection of rocks, minerals, and unique items fills the space. Each piece has a story and appeals to both serious collectors and casual visitors with its interesting and beautiful qualities.

People are saying

"This jewelry store has one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces with so much care."

"The owner's passion and knowledge about his collection are truly unique."

"I found the collection of rocks and minerals really interesting."

Good to know

1

The store features a unique collection of rare crystals, fossils, and handcrafted jewelry.

2

Items range in price from one dollar to a million dollars, catering to all budgets.

3

Henry, the owner, has extensive knowledge about the pieces and their histories.

03
66-To-Cali image 1
Gift shop

Small shop on Route 66 offers a nice view and engaging talks with a knowledgeable proprietor. Travelers enjoy interesting anecdotes and a unique atmosphere. It's an essential stop for anyone exploring the famous route.

Many interesting anecdotes about Route 66 come up during conversations. The shop offers a unique atmosphere and engaging talks with the shopkeeper.

People are saying

"The proprietor shared interesting anecdotes about the route."

Good to know

1

66-To-Cali is a must-stop for Route 66 travelers heading to Santa Monica Pier.

2

The shop offers unique Route 66 merchandise and memorabilia.

3

Expect to find knowledgeable staff who can share interesting Route 66 stories.

04
Outlandish image 1
General store

Concept store merges live influencer broadcasts with trendy products in a vibrant atmosphere. Creative space design and seamless blend of physical and digital elements create a unique shopping environment. Its use is so striking it recalls a Black Mirror episode.

The space has a very interesting use that stands out. It also draws comparisons to a Black Mirror episode, adding a unique twist.

People are saying

"I found the store to be a really cool and fun experience."

"I found it to be a unique and uplifting place."

"It's totally worth a visit and very interesting."

Good to know

1

Outlandish offers a unique shopping experience blending physical and digital elements.

2

The store features live influencer broadcasts showcasing various brands.

3

Expect to find trendy and cute products that are hard to find elsewhere.

05
McCabe's Guitar Shop image 1
Musical instrument store

Small, intimate venue with great acoustics and a warm, charming atmosphere filled with the scent of wooden instruments. The space hosts solo performances and small bands on a compact stage, attracting a rapt audience of true fans. It doubles as a historic music shop and museum with a large collection of vintage and new stringed instruments.

People are saying

"It's a small, acoustically designed venue for an intimate musical experience."

"It's an interesting collection of vintage and new guitars."

"I've seen so many amazing young artists perform here."

Good to know

1

Music shows are hosted regularly, featuring both emerging and established artists.

2

The shop sells a variety of new and used instruments, including guitars and Didgeridoos.

3

No alcohol is served, but coffee, water, and snacks are available for purchase.

06
Andrew's Cheese Shop image 1

Space feels stark with white surfaces and minimal staff diversity, creating a clean but clinical vibe. Selection highlights artisan cheeses and American-made products with gourmet pairings like wine and olive oil. Prices are premium, matching the curated specialty nature.

Selection of provisions includes unique cheeses, meats, and wines. Recommendations focus on new and interesting options.

People are saying

"Andrew's recommendations for wine and cheese were amazing."

"I found the grilled cheese and beer at the event to be very tasty."

"I found interesting cheeses, meats, and wines recommended by the staff."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like grilled cheese and beer nights.

2

The cheese of the month club offers curated selections with detailed information.

3

Expect a premium price for all products at this specialty shop.

07
Le Great Outdoor Restaurant image 1

Spacious patio with plenty of heaters keeps guests warm while enjoying fresh from the fire dishes. Unique wine choices add to the interesting flavors. Atmosphere blends lively yet calming vibes with a wood smoke scent for a relaxed, elevated backyard bar feel.

Ordering food at the grill delivers fresh from the fire dishes with interesting flavors. The wine selection includes some unique choices that complement the meals well.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"It's a great spot for a date night with its lovely outdoor atmosphere."

"The food here is interesting, with flavors and dishes that are well cooked."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a huge free parking lot available for guests.

2

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant accommodates various dietary restrictions, making it inclusive.

08
Cosetta image 1
Italian restaurant

Open air dining with a heated patio creates a cozy Italian vibe perfect for both lively nights and romantic dates. Unique dishes like Italian dumpling salad and Caesar with crunchy bacon offer fresh, interesting flavors. A fire pit and bar area add warmth and casual charm.

Fresh and interesting ingredients stand out in the dishes. The Italian dumpling salad and a Caesar salad with crunchy bacon offer unique flavors and textures.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the steak and prawns."

"The Caesar salad here is generously topped with crunchy bacon."

"The food here is really tasty and worth ordering."

Good to know

1

Reservation is highly recommended during weekends and peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant with two hours of validation.

3

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 5 pm on weekdays.

09
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Huge space with contemporary decor and a full bar sets a lively mood. Food shines with jackfruit korma, offering unique flavors. Outdoor patio is pet-friendly and cozy with heaters, while live belly dancers add subtle entertainment.

Food offers interesting flavors with dishes like the jackfruit korma standing out for its quality and taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and thoughtful."

"The interior's modern decor feels warm and inviting."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and in a nearby lot, but it's limited.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

Happy Hour offers limited menu items on Fridays from 4-6pm.

10
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Mini golf thrills with unique themed holes and creative setups that keep play fresh. Bar buzzes with live magician entertainment and karaoke music, making nights lively and loud. Tight spaces add to the energetic vibe, perfect for fun, not quiet.

Courses feature creative setups with unique designs and interesting twists on three of nine holes. Props add polish and keep play from feeling repetitive.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The bar staff here is super friendly and attentive."

"The mini golf courses are interesting with their unique and creative designs."

Good to know

1

Events can cost over $1000 for limited time slots, so plan accordingly.

2

No kids are allowed after 8pm, so check age restrictions before visiting.

3

The venue lacks air conditioning, making it very hot during summer visits.

11
Downtown Santa Monica image 1

Wide sidewalks with palm trees and live street performances create a lively, creative space. Unique shops and a farmers market offer interesting finds and fresh fruits. Ocean views and plenty of benches make it a peaceful spot for families and shoppers alike.

Street buzzes with many activities and hosts interesting shops and great restaurants. Farmers market offers a variety of unique fruits.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, wide, and sandy."

"It's a lively and fun place, always buzzing with activity."

"I found the neighborhood and street to be interesting and a hotspot."

Good to know

1

Public Parking Structure 6 offers 99 minutes of free parking.

2

Parking is often difficult to find in Downtown Santa Monica.

3

The area is generally safe and cheerful for visitors.

12
Bergamot Station Arts Center image 1

Art center boasts a cool warehouse feel with open gallery doors for a relaxed vibe. Galleries feature diverse art styles and engaging paintings that capture attention. A cafe and live music add to the inviting, casual atmosphere.

Galleries showcase consistently interesting paintings and pieces. The arts center offers a variety of engaging visual art that draws attention.

People are saying

"I found so many cool galleries with amazing art."

"The parking here is free and super convenient."

"I found the galleries offered consistently interesting viewing."

Good to know

1

Entry is free at this location, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

Parking is free and convenient, with plenty of spaces available.

3

There are various art galleries showcasing a wide range of styles.

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Santa Monica, California

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