Located right on the Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park was the brainchild of Charles Looff, the man who built the first carousel on Coney Island. He saw the potential of having an amusement park on the opposite coast of New York so he moved his operation to California. In 1916, The Looff Pleasue Pier as it was originally named, opened to the public with rave reviews in 1916.

For over 8 decades, the park and the pier have become national monuments and continue to charm locals and visitors alike. Adult rides like the Pacific Wheel, the only solar powered ferris wheel, the West Coaster roller coaster zips around the park at over 35 miles an hour and The Sea Dragon that’s a swinging ship that keeps riders on their toes are some of the reasons the park is so famous. There’s even a kiddie version of the Sea Dragon, called Ship Ahoy. Other kiddie rides include Crazy Submarine, Pier Patrol and the Frog Hopper. There are over a dozen arcade games for all to enjoy, as well. Food options are burgers, pizza, Dippin Dots, popcorn, cotton candy, hot dogs, etc.

Pacific Park is great place to visit in the summer months. Numerous movies, commercials and TV shows have been filmed here and continue to be the backdrop for many more.

Some things to know before heading out to the park: Parking can be expensive, so avoid parking under or on the pier. Look for lots a block or two away. Always bring a sweater. It tends to be chilly, no matter what time of year.