Permanent Collection
Step into the story of Santa Monica through thoughtfully curated galleries showcasing highlights from our permanent collection. Each gallery reveals a unique chapter in the city’s diverse and dynamic past.
Designed to engage curious minds of all ages —these exhibits bring history to life through compelling artifacts, immersive environments, interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and striking visual panels.
The Old Santa Monica Room
Indigenous Roots of the Region
Visitors begin their exploration of Santa Monica’s past with an orienting exhibition that establishes the city’s earliest context. Through artifacts, archival photographs, interpretive texts, and thoughtfully designed visuals, it traces the region’s story from the Tongva homelands through the city’s founding and early decades into the 1930s. Both introductory and foundational, this installation highlights the pivotal events and formative influences that shaped Santa Monica’s identity, offering essential perspective for the narratives explored throughout the museum.
A Town at Play
The Celebrated Beach
Discover the timeless Appeal of Santa Monica Beach.
For over a century, Santa Monica Beach has captivated visitors from all walks of life, drawing them to its sun-soaked shores, iconic amusement piers, invigorating saltwater baths, and scenic boardwalks. A true destination for generations of fun-seekers, the beach has been a place of joy, recreation, and discovery.
Step back in time and explore a collection of unique artifacts, from the majestic sea horse that once greeted visitors at the entrance to Pacific Ocean Park, to the barbell wielded by the legendary wrestler Baron Michele Leone, famously known as “The Baron.” These treasures offer a glimpse into the rich history that has made Santa Monica Beach an enduring symbol of leisure and entertainment
A Town in the Arts
Santa Monica’s Creativity
Explore Santa Monica’s profound impact on American cultural heritage.
Santa Monica has long been a cornerstone of artistic innovation, beginning with early photographers who immortalized the city’s stunning landscapes. Over time, this creative spirit blossomed, shaping the city into a dynamic cultural hub.
Our “Then & Now” exhibit offers a compelling visual journey, allowing visitors to easily compare historical and contemporary views of Santa Monica’s evolving landscape. Through these striking images, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the city’s identity has been shaped by both nature and artistic vision.
A Town at Work
A City Grows & Thrives
Experience Santa Monica’s independent spirit and discover the trailblazers whose bold ideas and innovative visions helped shape the cultural and entrepreneurial fabric of Santa Monica. From iconic businesses that have stood the test of time to groundbreaking subcultures that continue to influence the world today, the city’s independent spirit is alive and thriving.
Santa Monica’s beaches and streets were the proving grounds for a rebellious group of surfers-turned-skateboarders who revolutionized the sport, making the city the epicenter of skateboarding culture.
