Celebrating 115 Years of the Santa Monica Pier: A Historical Journey
The Santa Monica Pier turns 115 this year and it's as vibrant and popular as ever. A landmark of Los Angeles, it's a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Let's delve into the rich history of this iconic pier and its significance. Happy 115th Birthday, Santa Monica Pier: Nearby Hotels to the Santa Monica Pier
A Look back at the Rich History of Santa Monica Pier
Having withstood the test of time, the Santa Monica Pier is a testament to its enduring charm and appeal. Opened in 1909, it has since become an integral part of Los Angeles' culture and history.
- It was originally designed as a municipal pier, serving the practical purpose of carrying sewage out to sea.
- The Looff Hippodrome, a classic carousel and a National Historic Landmark, was added in 1916.
- In 1922, the La Monica Ballroom opened, which was once the largest ballroom in the world.
- During the Great Depression, the pier became a popular spot for fishing and it still is to this day.
- The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium opened its doors in 2003, adding to the pier's many attractions.
- The Santa Monica Pier celebrates its 115th birthday this Friday (smdp.com)
Stages of the Pier's Rebirth
The story of the Pier began long before the opening of Pacific Ocean Park (POP). Throughout the 20th century, the Pier went through multiple transformations, largely due to fires that devastated its structure.
The Pier originally opened in 1911 as the Million Dollar Pier, but a fire destroyed it just fifteen months later. It was rebuilt and reopened in 1913, eventually renamed Pickering Pier in 1919 after Ernest Pickering purchased and expanded the space by 400,000 square feet. His efforts added five new rides, bringing a resurgence of local business. In 1920, the Pier welcomed 85,000 visitors on its reopening weekend, but another fire reduced the park to ruins just three years later.
In 1925, Charles Lick bought and reconstructed the Pier, rebranding it as Ocean Park Pier. It thrived for years, undergoing several upgrades. However, by World War II, the Pier had become outdated and attendance plummeted. It wasn't until 1956 that the Pier began its transformation into Pacific Ocean Park (POP).
The Making of Pacific Ocean Park
In 1956, CBS and the Los Angeles Turf Club purchased the Ocean Park Pier lease and launched an ambitious two-year renovation to create Pacific Ocean Park. Their $10 million plan aimed to compete with Disneyland, bringing together talented amusement park designers and Hollywood special effects artists. Over 80 professionals worked for more than a year to craft unique, sea-themed attractions.
To offset the high costs of competing with Disney, POP's owners adopted a similar approach, securing corporate sponsorships and refurbishing existing attractions like the merry-go-round, fun house, and roller coaster.
POP's grand design featured sea-green and white art, fountains, sculptures, and a starfish-shaped ticket booth adorned with bubbles and seahorses.
A Grand Opening
On Saturday, July 28, 1958, POP opened its gates to nearly 20,000 visitors, including Hollywood celebrities. The following day saw attendance soar to 37,262, causing significant traffic jams in the area. Impressively, in its opening week, POP attracted more visitors than Disneyland.
Attractions and Events at Today's Santa Monica Pier
Today, the Santa Monica Pier is more than just a pier. It's a vibrant and bustling attraction, offering a plethora of activities and events for all ages.
- Pacific Park, an amusement park, is a top attraction featuring a solar-powered Ferris Wheel visible from the Shore Hotel accross the street. Take a look Santa Monica Hotel Photos | Shore Hotel
- The pier is home to an array of eateries and shops, offering everything from gourmet seafood to beachwear.
- The pier hosts various events throughout the year, including live concerts, outdoor movie nights, and fitness classes.
- It offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica coastline, perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
- Book a room at the Shore Hotel Today and celebrate this Majestic Birthday Santa Monica Hotel Photos | Shore Hotel
- The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is a must-visit, especially for families with children.
Stay Close to the Action: Hotels Near Santa Monica Pier
Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing and a view of the stunning Santa Monica Pier. There are numerous hotels near Santa Monica Pier that offer this dreamy experience but none better that the Shore Hotel just across the street.Hotel Deals Santa Monica CA | Shore Hotel
One such option is the Shore Hotel. Strategically located, this eco-conscious boutique hotel provides easy access to the pier and other local attractions. It offers modern and comfortable rooms with breathtaking ocean views. It's the perfect base for your Santa Monica adventure.
The Shore Hotel also provides a variety of services to enhance your stay. They offer complimentary bicycle rentals for guests to explore the city. Their pool and fitness center ensure you can stay fit even while on vacation. Their on-site restaurant, Blue Plate Taco, serves up delicious Mexican cuisine with an oceanfront view.
Happy Birthday to the Santa Monica Pier - 115 and looking good as new! Here's to many more years of fun, laughter, and memories at this beloved landmark.