Uncover the Hidden Gems of Santa Monica: 10 Uncommon Fun Facts to Discover
Introduction
Do you ever feel like you know everything about your hometown, but there are still some mysteries left to uncover? Santa Monica, a coastal city in California, has a lot of hidden gems that are not well-known to many people. If you’re planning to visit Santa Monica or you’re a local who wants to know more about your city, read on! In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 uncommon fun facts about Santa Monica to discover.
The Original Name of Santa Monica
Santa Monica’s original name was Keche-Waish, which is believed to be the name of the Tongva people who lived in the area. In 1769, the Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portola arrived in the region and named an area after Saint Monica. Later, the city was named Santa Monica, and it has kept the name ever since.
The Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier was built in 1909 and was originally used for transporting sewage into the ocean. Later, an amusement park was built on the pier, but it was shut down during World War II. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction with rides, games, and restaurants.
The Tongva People
The Tongva people were the original inhabitants of the Santa Monica area. They had a language and culture unlike any other, and their history goes back thousands of years. Today, there are still some members of the Tongva tribe living in the area.
The Santa Monica Stairs
If you want to get some exercise while enjoying the scenery, the Santa Monica Stairs are the perfect place. There are two staircases that have over 170 steps each, and they offer a great view of the city and the ocean.
The Santa Monica Beach
The Santa Monica Beach is one of the most famous beaches in California, and for good reason! It has over 3 miles of pristine white sand and clear blue water. It’s a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
The Santa Monica Mountains
The Santa Monica Mountains are a beautiful range that covers over 150,000 acres. They are home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the city and the ocean. Some of the popular trails include the Backbone Trail and the Los Liones Trail.
The Santa Monica Bay
The Santa Monica Bay is a large body of water that borders the city. It’s a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. There are several piers along the beach where you can rent boats or book a fishing trip.
The Third Street Promenade
The Third Street Promenade is an outdoor shopping mall that has been around since 1965. It’s home to many popular stores, restaurants, and street performers. It’s a great place to spend the day with family and friends.
The Bergamot Station Arts Center
The Bergamot Station Arts Center is a former trolley station that has been converted into an art gallery complex. It’s home to several galleries where you can see local and international art exhibits.
FAQs
1. What is there to do at the Santa Monica Pier?
The Santa Monica Pier has many things to do, including rides, games, and restaurants. There’s something for everyone, and it’s a great place to spend the day with family and friends.
2. Are there any hiking trails in Santa Monica?
Yes, there are several hiking trails in Santa Monica, including the Backbone Trail and the Los Liones Trail. They offer stunning views of the city and the ocean.
3. What is the Third Street Promenade?
The Third Street Promenade is an outdoor shopping mall that has been around since 1965. It has many popular stores, restaurants, and street performers.
4. How do I get to the Santa Monica Beach?
The Santa Monica Beach is accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. There are several parking lots along the beach, and the Metro Expo Line has a stop at the Santa Monica Pier.
5. What is the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area?
The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is a beautiful range that covers over 150,000 acres. It’s home to several hiking trails and offers stunning views of the city and the ocean.
6. What is the Bergamot Station Arts Center?
The Bergamot Station Arts Center is a former trolley station that has been converted into an art gallery complex. It’s home to several galleries where you can see local and international art exhibits.
7. What is the history behind Santa Monica’s original name?
Santa Monica’s original name was Keche-Waish, which is believed to be the name of the Tongva people who lived in the area. Later, the city was named Santa Monica after Saint Monica.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to visit Santa Monica or you’re a local who wants to know more about your city, we hope this post has given you some fun and interesting facts to discover. From the Santa Monica Pier to the Bergamot Station Arts Center, there are many hidden gems to uncover in this beautiful city. Don’t forget to visit the Santa Monica Beach, hike the Santa Monica Mountains, and explore the Third Street Promenade while you’re here. Happy exploring!