Plan a Visit
Since 1975, the Santa Monica History Museum has been dedicated to sharing the rich and diverse history of the Santa Monica Bay Area. Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the museum serves as a dynamic space to connect with the city’s unique cultural heritage.
With a commitment to community engagement, the museum offers access to compelling exhibitions, innovative programming, events, hands-on workshops, research services, and an expansive image archive.
Tours are available for schools and small groups.
Discover more by visiting our Research Library or taking a Virtual Tour.
FREE Admissions on first Sunday of the month!
Hours & Admissions
“Recommend a drop by the Santa Monica History Museum for every Santa Monica resident! It’s right next to the Santa Monica Main Library and a great spot to learn about the background and history of everyday places around us.“
“I spent about two hours at Santa Monica History Museum and left with a much better understanding of our city.“
“Cute little museum with very friendly and helpful employees!  Learned a couple of new things about the history of Santa Monica.“
Museum Hours
Thursday 2pm-5pm
Friday Saturday Sunday 11am-5pm
Admissions
General – $5.00
Museum Members – Free
Children (under 17) – Free
Seniors (65+) & Students – Free
Military (active duty, Veterans) – Free
SNAP/EBT cardholders – Free
Museum Holiday Hours
We are closed in observance of the following holidays: New Years Day, President’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and day after, Christmas
Free Admission Day
The first SUNDAY of every month, we invite you to visit us for free
All are welcome! Bring family and friends and enjoy a day of appreciating local history and culture.
Bill Beebe Collection (36.2.245)
Map & Directions
The museum is located adjacent to the Santa Monica Public Library and and across from Santa Monica Fire Station 1.
Freeway
From the 10 Freeway (Santa Monica Fwy) exit Lincoln Boulevard. Turn right onto Lincoln Blvd. Continue to Santa Monica Boulevard and turn left. At 7th Street, turn right. The museum is on your left across from Santa Monica Fire Station 1.Â
Metro
Take Metro Expo line to the last stop – Downtown Santa Monica. Walk up (North) 4th Street. Turn right onto Santa Monica Boulevard. At 7th Street, turn left. We are across from the Fire Station, down the stairs.
Parking
A public parking garage and surface lot are available on 7th Street next to the museum as well as ample metered street parking.
Address
1350 7th Street,Â
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Accessibility
Drop-off
The most convenient location to drop off a guest who may have limited mobility is on 7th Street, directly in front of our museum. There is ramp access leading directly to our front door.
Parking
Accessible parking is available in the underground parking. Entrance is on the West side of 7th Street. There are several spots available on each level. Take the elevator to ground level and head East to 7th street, where the ramp is available to our front door.
Public Transportation
Please visit Big Blue Bus or Santa Monica Expo Line for more information.
Restrooms
All our restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
Service Animals
Service animals are welcome!
