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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown

Fun activities with outdoor space

Getting outside to move around or play is the best way to clear the head.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Wide sidewalks lined with palm trees and bright storefronts create a playful, creative space filled with live street performances and ocean views. The atmosphere shifts from lively and vibrant during the day to quiet and peaceful at night. Plenty of benches and outdoor games invite relaxation amid a mix of shoppers and families.

Walking around offers a fun way to explore. Plenty of unique stores and food spots make shopping and eating enjoyable. It stays safe and clean, welcoming for all ages without needing to spend money.

Outdoor shopping features human-size games like connect four and chess. Seating includes rotating chairs and plenty of space for people watching at eateries.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun place for shopping, dining, and just enjoying a walk."

"I found the outdoor shopping area to be the best in the US."

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.

02
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Incredible atmosphere creates a lively and classy vibe. The place offers a fun night out with a touch of elegance.

Outside patio offers a relaxing family setting with a fireplace that enhances the atmosphere. It suits bottomless mimosa brunches and casual gatherings, making it a favored spot for both daytime and evening events.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The outdoor space is cozy and nice, perfect for sitting by the fire."

"The live music here really adds to the energetic vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

03
Santa Monica Place image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air mall with modern architecture and rooftop ocean views offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and family-friendly entertainment. Spacious design includes plenty of seating areas and shaded outdoor spaces. Unique features like the Immersion Room and rooftop dining add extra charm.

Outdoor mall offers a vibrant atmosphere with ocean and city views. Variety of stores and rides provide fun for both kids and adults.

A modern, open outdoor concept defines the mall, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere. It offers a high-end outdoor shopping center experience with great family entertainment options nearby.

People are saying

"This mall is a beautiful, large, open space."

"It's a fun place with plenty to do for the whole family."

"It's a modern, open outdoor space with a neat layout."

Good to know

1

DJ performances occur on weekends, providing live entertainment.

2

Parking is available, making access convenient for visitors.

3

Many stores are currently closed or boarded up.

04
Promenade Street image 1
Shopping mall

Outdoor pedestrian mall features live street musicians and local artists performing in a lively plaza. The atmosphere blends casual shopping with diverse dining options, attracting both tourists and locals. Security is strong, creating a safe and vibrant environment near the ocean.

Walking down Promenade Street offers a fun and enjoyable experience with a safe atmosphere. Its close location to the beach and pier adds to the convenience for a day of fun.

Promenade Street features a vibrant outdoor mall with many stores and two movie theaters. The outdoor dining offers a range from casual fare to gourmet cuisine, alongside lively street entertainment.

People are saying

"I found the street performers and outside entertainment really fun."

"The Promenade's shopping scene is casual and great for tourists."

"The outdoor space has street performers and entertainers."

Good to know

1

The Sunday salsa event runs from 7pm to 10pm every week.

2

Farmers market takes place on Promenade Street every Saturday morning.

3

Street musicians perform daily, creating a lively atmosphere.

05
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Mini golf courses feature unique themes on every hole, making the game engaging at all levels. The atmosphere suits date nights, group outings, and team building with a caddy who ensures smooth play.

Multiple patios spread across the second and third levels offer spacious outdoor areas. A private patio suits group gatherings, and the rooftop features a mini golf course for added fun.

People are saying

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

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

"The private outdoor patio is ideal for groups."

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.

06
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Stepping inside feels like joining a celebration with an upbeat atmosphere. The spot works well for large groups and offers a fun twist on French cuisine, especially during brunch.

Outdoor space features a covered patio that lets sunlight in and a relaxed lounge area with bamboo and rope decorations. Views of the ocean and PCH enhance the dining atmosphere outside.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The staff made our celebration feel personal and special with fun activities."

"The outdoor space here has a great indoor and outdoor vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

07
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel image 1

Huge, spacious building with large common areas including a patio, kitchen, and lounge. Atmosphere is generally quiet and safe, with silent hours at night and a clean, cozy feel. Guests find plenty of relaxation spots and enjoy amenities like a pool table, fireplace, and well-equipped kitchen.

Organized events include tours, yoga, and comedy nights.** A variety of fun activities keeps the atmosphere lively and social.

A huge, spacious structure offers many common areas like a patio, kitchen, and lobby. Private rooms include terraces with outdoor sofas, and an outdoor seating area enhances breakfast.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are spotless and really nice."

"It's a great outdoor space, just steps from the beach and pier."

"The staff's local tips made exploring the area a blast for fun activities."

Good to know

1

The hostel organizes daily activities like movie nights with free pizza and donuts.

2

Free yoga classes and comedy shows are available for all guests.

3

The location is ideal, just minutes from the Santa Monica Pier.

08
JOHN REED Fitness image 1
Fitness center

Three-story gym blends modern design with state-of-the-art German equipment and a rooftop outdoor space. High-energy atmosphere mixes loud music with a boutique vibe, attracting those who enjoy a stylish, motivating workout environment.

Classes feature a live DJ and many themed workouts that keep energy high. Instructors like Trish make sessions fun and motivating with great music and a fitness focus.

A beautiful outdoor space sits on the roof, perfect for soaking up some SoCal Vitamin D. The gym spans three floors and includes an outdoor section alongside extensive equipment and a live DJ.

People are saying

"I had my best workouts at this gym."

"Trish's spin classes are fun with great music and energy."

"It's a huge gym with a great outdoor space."

Good to know

1

A day pass costs $50, which is required for first-time visitors.

2

Membership fees start at over $130 per month.

3

Classes offered are dynamic and fun, including the popular Bike and Beats class.

09
Britannia Pub image 1

Pub offers multiple seating areas including a backyard patio, balcony, and sidewalk patio, creating a spacious feel. Atmosphere mixes British and Philadelphia Eagles themes with loud music and a lively crowd during games. Features include pool tables, many TVs for sports, and a DJ energizing the space.

A pool table with a beautiful and convenient design stands out for fun. The pub offers a great spot to chill, talk, and listen, creating a lively atmosphere for good times.

Four distinct outdoor areas include a giant backyard patio, balcony, and sidewalk patio. Seating options cover both street and back patio spots.

People are saying

"This bar is the perfect find for watching the Eagles game."

"The pub staff were really friendly and helpful."

"You can watch the Eagles game with a DJ hyping the crowd."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4 to 7 pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Karaoke night happens on weekends with no cover charge.

3

The pub offers $7 fish and chips during Happy Hour.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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