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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown Santa Monica

Unique fun activities

Made for those who seek out unconventional ways to spend their free time and have no patience for the predictable.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Massive VR playground offers spacious play areas with high-tech immersive graphics and a light-up glow theme. The atmosphere feels friendly and energetic, filled with lights and people moving freely. Games include interactive VR rides and escape rooms that create a unique, engaging experience.

Exciting virtual reality games create a highly fun atmosphere. Many find the experience engaging and memorable for all ages.

Group VR games offer a very unique and immersive experience that feels more real than typical laser tag or escape rooms. The venue features a light-up glow theme that sets it apart visually from other VR spots.

People are saying

"It's a blast; the VR experience is so much fun."

"This VR experience is unique and felt incredibly realistic."

Good to know

1

Booking a party room requires at least two weeks' notice.

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Parking is available nearby for easy access.

3

Prices are affordable, making it accessible for families.

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Museum offers interactive exhibits with mind-bending illusions like the rotating tunnel and Vortox. Atmosphere feels bubbly and fun, appealing to both kids and adults. Space encourages exploration and photo opportunities throughout.

Interactive illusions create a fun and unique experience that challenges perception. Walking through the tunnel and exploring various rooms offers engaging activities suitable for families and date nights.

Rooms use optical illusions to create a very unique experience that plays with how the brain perceives images and space. This makes it a fun spot for a night out with friends or family.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun place with unique rooms that play with your mind."

Good to know

1

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

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The museum is located on the third Street promenade.

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

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Painting studio combines vibrant atmosphere with an open bar serving excellent cocktails. Energetic and fun, creative vibe encourages people of all skill levels to unleash artistic expression. Music plays a key role, creating an inspiring and welcoming environment for groups, couples, and families.

Creating a canvas here feels fun and exciting, with a unique splatter experience that stands out. Friendly hosts add to the vibe with fun music, making it a special activity to share.

A unique concept blends creativity and entertainment for a fun, intimate night out. Friendly, flexible staff help create cool, unique artwork that makes celebrations stand out.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for fun activities, perfect for dates or groups."

"It's a unique and fun experience for groups."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for group events to ensure availability.

2

You can enjoy drinks at the bar before or during your painting session.

3

The venue is clean and well-organized, enhancing the overall experience.

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Workshops combine fresh, high-quality flowers with creative, hands-on learning in a relaxing, fun atmosphere. Guests leave with unique, personalized arrangements that showcase artistry and attention to detail. The space encourages both mental well-being and skill-building through floral design.

Workshops offer a creative and fun way to spend time with friends. Sessions feel relaxing and informative, making floral skills easy to learn.

Floral arrangements feature fresh and unique flowers. Creations stand out as one-of-a-kind and breathtakingly beautiful.

People are saying

"The instructor is knowledgeable and makes the fun activities easy and fun."

"The floral arrangements here are gorgeous and unique."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and accessible for workshop attendees.

2

The floral workshops last about an hour and a half, providing ample time to learn.

3

Each participant leaves the workshop with their own flower arrangement.

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Concept store blends live influencer broadcasts with trendy products in a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Space design uses decorative elements creatively to enhance the experience. Physical and digital elements merge seamlessly, creating a unique shopping environment.

Exploring here offers a fun and exciting experience with plenty to discover. The store itself feels very fun to shop at and adds to a great day out.

Offers a one-of-a-kind experience that feels truly uplifting. The atmosphere stands out as amazing and unlike any other.

People are saying

"It's a super cool and fun experience exploring this place."

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

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.

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Consignment shop with a chic, well-curated layout offers high-end designer clothing and accessories in excellent condition. Atmosphere stays calm and inviting, encouraging leisurely browsing and trying on items. Frequent discounts and a wide variety make it a spot for finding unique, quality pieces at reasonable prices.

Merchandise includes unique pieces and designer items that stand out. Prices are wonderful for the beautiful finds.

People are saying

"I found beautiful and unique pieces here."

Good to know

1

Great Labels often offers 50% off or more sales quickly to keep their inventory fresh.

2

They do an Instagram Live every Friday at Noon (Pacific time) featuring new arrivals and markdowns.

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Great Labels has a wonderful selection of clothes, shoes, bags, and jewelry.

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Small theater offers an intimate setting with unobstructed views from every seat. The atmosphere feels cozy and friendly, making magic performances feel personal and immersive. Shows combine magic and comedy, appealing to both adults and kids in a relaxed lounge environment.

Mind-bending illusions create a quirky and hilarious atmosphere. Staff keep things fun and efficient, making it easy to connect with groups.

Each act offers a unique and engaging experience that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats. The event creates a special way to bring people together.

People are saying

"I had so much fun, it was hilarious and mind-bending!"

"The magic acts here are so unique and captivating."

Good to know

1

VIP tickets include a free drink and front-row seating.

2

Parking costs about $3.00 per hour, located half a block away.

3

The magic show lasts about 90 minutes and features multiple acts.

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Small dining room with only five tables offers an intimate atmosphere and close-up view of the open kitchen. Bright lighting contrasts with the sleek, modern design and vinyl records playing softly in the background. Staff create a relaxing, comfortable vibe that complements the upscale yet cozy setting.

Small space includes solid silver duck press for jus and a turntable playing classics like Stevie Wonder. A hidden door adds a playful touch.

Impeccable food meets thoughtful presentation and a unique ambiance. Ingredients come from exclusive California farms, creating a fun and distinct experience.

People are saying

"It's a unique, intimate dining experience with only a few tables."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

The cost is on the higher side of tasting experiences at $399 per person.

3

Expect a unique performance using an 18th-century press during the meal.

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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.

Mini golf holes feature wicked designs with fun and unique themes on every level. The course offers a creative and packed experience despite limited space.

People are saying

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

"The mini golf holes here have such unique and wicked 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.

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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.

Energetic vibe comes from up-tempo music and artwork with unique flair. Gym features state-of-the-art German workout machines that stand out from competitors.

People are saying

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

"This place feels so unique with all the natural light and gorgeous 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.

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Spanish tapas bar offers a cozy art deco interior with soft warm lighting and a down-to-earth yet elegant vibe. The atmosphere ranges from loud and lively to more intimate upstairs seating, attracting those seeking authentic Spanish flavors paired with an extensive vermouth and cocktail selection.

Tapas format encourages trying many foods, making tasting fun for kids and adults. Eating at the bar adds a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Pulling open gooseneck barnacles offers a unique, interactive experience.

Galecian empanada and anchovy on buttered brioche toast offer unique flavors with salty, savory, buttery, and slightly crusty notes. The bartender creates a custom wine flight tailored to personal taste, enhancing the sensorial experience.

People are saying

"The lamb skewers were the best I have ever tasted."

"Trying the gooseneck barnacles is a fun activity."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.

2

Happy hour is available on weekdays with a limited menu.

3

The restaurant adds a 4% employee benefits fee to the bill.

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Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chefs performing theatrical grilling shows at each table. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere suited for date nights and family outings. A second-level bar adds to the venue's entertaining vibe and interactive energy.

Staff like Pablo, Joey, Tyler, and Ivan make the experience very fun and personable. Celebrations such as birthdays feel extra enjoyable with their lively service.

A truly unique dining experience unfolds with interactive cooking right at the table. The atmosphere blends fun and engagement with great food.

People are saying

"The chefs here make the dining experience truly fun."

"The chef's theatrical grilling show was a unique performance."

Good to know

1

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

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The staff celebrates birthdays with a special song and treat.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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