DAY TRIP TO SANTA MONICA

Today I went with a friend to Santa Monica.  I have not been there in years and I'm really happy we went.  It was such a fun day. 

You may be asking yourself - "What is there to do or see in Santa Monica?"  Well, come along with me and I'll show you.

Our first stop was to the 3rd Street Promenade.  We wanted to walk around a bit then eat lunch.  There are so many great restaurants to pick from. 

I love that most places have tables outside right by the sidewalks.  That way, you can enjoy your meal and still have a great time people watching.

For those of you who have never been to the 3rd Street Promenade, it is a street that is block off to traffic for several blocks. 

There is a lot of wonderful shops, food places, movies, street carts and entertainment. 

We came across several people who were singing and trying to sell their CD's.  Some were really good...some, not so much.

You will find all sorts of things to make you smile.

Like bushes that look like big dinosaurs.

Movie theaters with old fashion charm.

Unique art work.

Great candy shops.

Shoe shine stands that used to be on every corner, many years ago.

The list of super things there goes on and on.

We then went for a walk and ended up going over the beach side of the road.

I found the combo of these two trees to be odd.  Palm trees and Yucca trees just don't go together.  It's Tropical and Dessert.  Strange.

Santa Monica has a lot of new buildings.  However, they still have a lot of the old time charm that makes you feel like you are walking around in the past.

I fell in love with this old Hotel.   I want to stay here someday.

Why is there a big cannon here?  I have no idea.  There weren't any signs around and no one seemed to know. 

Yup, you can get your "Kicks on Route 66" right here in Santa Monica.

After walking several blocks, we came to the famous Pier. 

The Pier is a very popular spot for locals and tourist.  It was pretty crowded when we were there.

The beach wasn't as near crowded as most Summer days. 

Yes, I know most of the Country is burning up.  Yet, here in Santa Monica it was kind of overcast and not hot at all.  I think it only got up to 72 there in the late afternoon.

Yet people were still going in the water. 

In 1975, the Santa Monica Pier became a Historical Landmark.

You could spend the day on the Pier.  It's not like most Piers.  This one has lots of rides, many places to eat, shops and so much to see and do.

You can even take classes to become a trapeze artist.  Soon, you could be flying through the air with the greatest of ease.

You can see artists at work and even buy what they make.

If you walk to the very end of the Pier you will find the Harbor Office and take classes in Ocean safety.

It was fun playing tourist in my own back yard.  OK, so it's not actually my backyard, it's about an hour from where I live.  But, it still made for a wonderful day.