Last updated: 2025-04-22
Santa Monica’s indoor scene offers a vibrant escape from typical beach-day activities. From art galleries to performance spaces, these hidden gems provide creative respites that capture the city’s eclectic cultural spirit.
Whether seeking artistic inspiration or a cozy afternoon retreat, Santa Monica’s indoor destinations deliver unique experiences that blend local creativity with unexpected entertainment options for visitors and residents alike.
Discover Santa Monica’s coolest indoor adventures now!
Featured Indoor Activities in Santa Monica
- Aero Theatre
- Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts (Beverly Hills)
- Bergamot Station Arts Center
- Santa Monica Public Library
- The Broad Stage
- Santa Monica Playhouse
- Color Me Mine
- Camera Obscura
Aero Theatre
What to Expect
Historic Streamline Moderne-styled theatre from 1940
Description
Historic Santa Monica cinema offering diverse film programming through the American Cinematheque. Features advanced screenings, filmmaker discussions, retrospectives, and revival films across multiple formats including 35mm, 70mm, and digital projection. Max Palevsky Theatre provides a 425-seat venue with enhanced sound and projection technology.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Aero Theatre
Bergamot Station Arts Center
What to Expect
Largest art gallery complex on the West Coast
Description
Bergamot Station Arts Center is a comprehensive art complex housing multiple galleries, exhibition spaces, and creative studios. This expansive cultural venue showcases contemporary art from diverse artists, offering visitors an immersive visual experience across various artistic mediums and styles.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Bergamot Station Arts Center
Camera Obscura
What to Expect
Historic optical camera obscura mechanism in public park setting
Description
The Camera Obscura Art Lab serves as Santa Monica's community arts practice space, offering a unique visual experience through its historic optical device. Located in Palisades Park, the venue hosts artist residencies and provides a specialized environment for creative exploration and visual arts education.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Camera Obscura
Color Me Mine
What to Expect
Custom ceramic painting and glazing workshop
Description
Interactive pottery painting studio offering creative experiences for all ages. Guests can select ceramic pieces, paint their own designs, and have items professionally glazed and fired. Provides a hands-on artistic activity perfect for individuals, families, and group events.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Color Me Mine
Santa Monica Playhouse
What to Expect
Multi-generational theater education and performance center
Description
Santa Monica Playhouse offers comprehensive theater experiences with dynamic live performances, educational workshops for children and adults, and specialized theater programs. The venue provides interactive theater education, youth workshops, and a variety of performance opportunities across multiple performance spaces.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Santa Monica Playhouse
Santa Monica Public Library
What to Expect
Community-centered learning hub with diverse resource offerings
Description
The Santa Monica Public Library offers comprehensive resources for community learning and exploration. Provides free access to extensive book collections, digital materials, research databases, and public computer stations. Hosts educational programs, workshops, and community events for all ages.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: Santa Monica Public Library
The Broad Stage
What to Expect
Multi-disciplinary performing arts center with community-focused programming
Description
The Broad Stage is a contemporary performing arts venue in Santa Monica offering diverse live performances across music, theater, and cultural experiences. The venue provides intimate performance spaces including a main stage and blackbox theater, featuring local and international artists with a focus on community engagement and artistic development.
Where: Santa Monica | More Info: The Broad Stage
Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts (Beverly Hills)
What to Expect
Multidisciplinary performing arts venue with innovative programming
Description
Premier performing arts center in Beverly Hills offering a diverse range of live performances including theater, music, dance, and family-friendly shows. Features world-class productions spanning classical concerts, contemporary dance, musical theater workshops, and special cultural events that showcase both established and emerging artists.
Where: Beverly Hills | More Info: Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
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