Santa Monica History Museum — Attraction in Santa Monica

For anyone looking to learn more about Santa Monica's rich history, the Santa Monica History Museum is a real hidden gem. Housed in a beautiful historic building, this small but engaging museum brings the city's past to life. During my visit, I was able to explore different aspects of Santa Monica history through a series of exhibits and displays. There were intricate model train sets showcasing the importance of railroads in the city's early development. Vintage surfboards and panels on local surf culture highlighted Santa Monica's iconic beaches. Historic photographs and artifacts provided insight into the city's architectural and cultural evolution. One standout was the impressive collection of vintage Santa Monica postcards. It was fascinating to see the town's landmarks and day-to-day scenes from decades past. The knowledgeable docents added context and stories that made the exhibits even more meaningful. Beyond the exhibits, the museum building itself is a piece of history. Known as the 1875 First Free Methodist Church, the restored 19th century structure is a beautiful example of Santa Monica's earliest architecture. Make sure to admire the intricate original woodwork inside. With free admission and a small, cozy layout, the Santa Monica History Museum is a quick and enriching stop. Visitors of all ages and interests will enjoy discovering the local stories and memories captured here. For me, it was a perfect way to gain insight into the place I...

I've wanted to visit this Museum for month's now, but was always busy with other things that always came up. The day's that the Museum is open are very strange, so this Thursday I decided to finally come.

Thursday is the first day of the week that this Museum is open. I got here as early as it was possible. Because the Metro takes over an hour to take me here. After arriving a little after 3 in the afternoon and experiencing some technical difficulties using walking directions provided by Google Map's inside the library by the back entrance because the main entrance on 6th and Santa Monica was locked.

I was able to finally locate the entrance to this Museum. And to my great disappointment, dissatisfaction, annoyance and surprise as well as confusion as to why it is closed. I came to understand and realise that the Museum is closed without notice or any type of notification on Google Map's or any explanation from anyone at the Santa Monica library as to why it's closed but should be open this Thursday.

I'd like to notify anyone that is interested in visiting this Museum that they close without notice and it be a great waste of time to travel all this way. Just like visit all of the tiny beach City of Santa Monica.

I mean what's the point if they don't open the door's to their...

I spent about two hours at Santa Monica History Museum and left with a much better understanding of our city. It was especially interesting to learn about the Tongva tribe who lived in Santa Monica Bay as far back as 9,000 B.C. and creatively used tar from the nearby La Brea Tar Pit to waterproof their canoes. I also learned that movie star, Shirley Temple was born and raised in Santa Monica!

The exhibits are freshly curated for a modern audience and I highly recommend taking a quick tour with one of the museum manager, David. They have a cute gift shop that sells items from local artists and authors like greeting cards, postcards and books.

Pro Tips: Ask their historian to conduct a free hour of research about a specific question if you leave wanting to know...