Attraction · California
Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail)
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Steve’s take
The western terminus of Route 66 — the 'End of the Trail' sign at the Pier entrance is the photo every R66 traveler takes. The 1909 pier itself has Pacific Park's small Ferris wheel and roller coaster, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., the historic carousel from 1922. Free to walk on, paid to ride attractions. Sunset is the moment; LA traffic getting here is the challenge. Off I-10 in Santa Monica.
🌤️ Weather right now
Santa Monica, CA
Updated just now
This Afternoon
73°F
Sunny
Destination Details
- ✓free
- ✓outdoor
- ✓scenic
- ✓food
- ✓gift shop
- ✓wheelchair
- ✓parking
- ✓restrooms
Featured in these trip plans
Pre-made road-trip itineraries that pass through Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail).
American Oddity Tour
Ten days. Eight states. One Truckster. Every roadside oddity that earned a permanent spot in American road trip lore — Cadillac Ranch to Salvation Mountain, with Wall Drug and Carhenge in between.
Retro Roadside Icons
Nine days. Chicago to Santa Monica. Every neon sign, mid-century motor court, glass-bottle soda fountain, and roadside service station that made Route 66 a religion. The Truckster runs on premium and nostalgia.
Familiar names nearby
Common questions about Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail)
Where is Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail)?
Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail) is at 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, California.
What are the hours at Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail)?
Typical hours: Pier open 24/7; rides + shops 11am–9pm. Hours can shift seasonally and on holidays — always confirm on the official site before you plan your visit.
What's Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail) like to visit on a family road trip?
The western terminus of Route 66 — the 'End of the Trail' sign at the Pier entrance is the photo every R66 traveler takes. The 1909 pier itself has Pacific Park's small Ferris wheel and roller coaster, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., the historic carousel from 1922. Free to walk on, paid to ride attractions. Sunset is the moment; LA traffic getting here is the challenge. Off I-10 in Santa Monica.
Is Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail) family-friendly?
Yes — Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail) earns a 5/5 family-friendly rating in our database. Older kids tend to enjoy it; little ones may get restless.
How long should families plan to stay at Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail)?
Most families spend an hour or two at Santa Monica Pier (End of the Trail), depending on kid stamina and weather.
Data sources: Pixie Vacations / Travel with Griz. Full attribution.