Third Street Promenade
Third Street Promenade
4.5
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
About
A moviegoer's haven, this colorful three-block stretch, open to pedestrians only, has some 20 movie theater screens, hundreds of stores, numerous restaurants, animal topiaries and street entertainment running the gamut from dancers to fortune tellers.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a coastal town that maintains a balance as a tourist destination and as an area with a thriving local culture. On the beach, bikers, roller-bladers, runners and walkers move along the famed bike path enjoying the beautiful Los Angeles weather. The solar-powered Ferris wheel at the Santa Monica pier spins high above the water, while park revelers scream with delight riding the roller coaster. Inland from the beach, Third Street Promenade bustles with shoppers and street performers, where every block seems to have a musical or acrobatic act drawing crowds giving Santa Monica both the feeling of a laid-back beach town and a major commercial hub.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
6 123 reviews
Excellent
3 025
Very good
2 320
Average
650
Poor
89
Terrible
39
dyhx
Singapore6 574 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
Early morning stroll before it gets crowded, similar to Beverly Hills it’s largely just shops on both sides of the street with a mini playground in the middle for young kids, helps add to the family-friendly factor here.
As I walked to the end of the street, I stumbled upon a weekend fresh food market. I assume it’s weekend only cause I haven’t read about it in any previous research.
Interesting display of fruits and vegetables, saw some odd veg I’ve not seen before but too shy to take pictures of. The strawberries looked really good too, but they sell only in punnets of 3 or 6, which is too much for me as a single traveler.
Done in 15 mins. Not worth the time if you ask me. Perhaps a good option for lunch or dinner after visiting Santa Monica Pier but otherwise, can skip it.
As I walked to the end of the street, I stumbled upon a weekend fresh food market. I assume it’s weekend only cause I haven’t read about it in any previous research.
Interesting display of fruits and vegetables, saw some odd veg I’ve not seen before but too shy to take pictures of. The strawberries looked really good too, but they sell only in punnets of 3 or 6, which is too much for me as a single traveler.
Done in 15 mins. Not worth the time if you ask me. Perhaps a good option for lunch or dinner after visiting Santa Monica Pier but otherwise, can skip it.
Written 22 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
stevekm
Arizona34 contributions
Sept 2021
For over 20 years, we've been recurring visitors of the 3rd Street Promenade. Since our kids were toddlers, now they're parents. Being from the hot deserts of Phoenix, this has always been such a refuge to get away from the heat, do some shopping, eat lunch outside etc.... This past weekend I went with my wife and could not have been more disappointed. Not all of this is Santa Monica or the mall's fault there. But yes, many bigger flagship stores had to close. (I hear not only due to the pandemic but they apparently had rioters there too). The nice Italian (semi-outdoor restaurant is gone and many more stores) Banana Rep, Old Navy, GAP, etc... all gone.
The biggest disappointment though is the upkeep. While the buildings all look fine even some empty, one cannot escape the constant smell of urine everywhere there. Lots of homeless people , but especially night, you do not see to many in the day time at the promenade, but it smelled horrible, Just about everywhere outside along the store fronts and it us unmasked. At least the city and the promenade management can wash and bleach that whole area down, regardless what stores are open! That smell is constant along the promenade and further sets the down mood of the desperation and depression of the pandemic. Keep those people out at night (must be when) and even provide some more facilities for these poor souls as well.
I am sure eventually, this place will be back to old form, but the there is no excuse to allow this to go on or not do anything about that sort of thing.
The biggest disappointment though is the upkeep. While the buildings all look fine even some empty, one cannot escape the constant smell of urine everywhere there. Lots of homeless people , but especially night, you do not see to many in the day time at the promenade, but it smelled horrible, Just about everywhere outside along the store fronts and it us unmasked. At least the city and the promenade management can wash and bleach that whole area down, regardless what stores are open! That smell is constant along the promenade and further sets the down mood of the desperation and depression of the pandemic. Keep those people out at night (must be when) and even provide some more facilities for these poor souls as well.
I am sure eventually, this place will be back to old form, but the there is no excuse to allow this to go on or not do anything about that sort of thing.
Written 8 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RJK3000
Boston, MA26 contributions
Oct 2019
Lots to see and experience here. After-dinner walking fun in the evening with outdoor entertainment and several performers playing live music. Especially liked the young couple on acoustic guitars playing the Van Morrison covers.
Written 4 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robert P
91 contributions
Dec 2022 • Solo
Santa Monica is a great introduction to Los Angeles with its proximity to downtown and the famous beaches such as Venice or “Muscle Beach”, Malibu and others. There is something for everyone. They even close the streets to cars in some spots allowing tourists and locals to just enjoy walking the streets and perusing the local offerings.
For those wanting to do some shopping, there is the “3rd Street Promenade” with high end shops and restaurants.
Getting around is also very easy with the Metro. I’m new to this area and did NOT aren’t a car on purpose to I forced myself to enjoy public transit like the locals. Bus service is also very good since the busses are mostly brand new. I would encourage those visiting Santa Monica and LA to take advantage of the public transit. Day passes are $5.00 amd it gives you unlimited rides on the Metro (light rail) as well as the Bus.
Beverly Hills and the rest of the Hollywood Hills are accessible via public transit as well. Go explore.
For those wanting to do some shopping, there is the “3rd Street Promenade” with high end shops and restaurants.
Getting around is also very easy with the Metro. I’m new to this area and did NOT aren’t a car on purpose to I forced myself to enjoy public transit like the locals. Bus service is also very good since the busses are mostly brand new. I would encourage those visiting Santa Monica and LA to take advantage of the public transit. Day passes are $5.00 amd it gives you unlimited rides on the Metro (light rail) as well as the Bus.
Beverly Hills and the rest of the Hollywood Hills are accessible via public transit as well. Go explore.
Written 30 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ellie
Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia531 contributions
Nov 2019
Just about everything that shopping/walking/entertaining district should have. There are hundreds of stores, malls, restaurants and coffee places. It is a vibrant, colorful, pedestrian area, safe for hours of strolling and offering quality time. At nights it is even more lively with the street entertainers.
Written 17 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Northern_Traveler00
California77 961 contributions
Jan 2023
Been about ten years since we’ve walked the Promenade. Found a meter a block over for $2,50/hour, paid for 90 minutes which was more than enough.
So many empty storefronts, very little “action” on a cool Sunday afternoon. Lots of musicians, some actually half decent, performing at the ends of various blocks.
Not what it once was. I hope it returns to glory some day,
So many empty storefronts, very little “action” on a cool Sunday afternoon. Lots of musicians, some actually half decent, performing at the ends of various blocks.
Not what it once was. I hope it returns to glory some day,
Written 29 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
WeBvacations
269 contributions
Jun 2021 • Friends
Such a fun and ever-changing experience. The stores remain but the street entertainment changes daily. Everything from watching/listening to musicians to participating in dance/exercise class to open air market. So much fun and lots to see and do. No traffic worries as the promenade is pedestrians only. Plenary of restaurants, shopping and movie theater as well.
Written 27 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AJR
Pasadena, CA3 contributions
May 2022 • Solo
I am a resident of Pasadena and a former resident of Santa Monica. I was horrified today when on the Westside of town I thought to stop at my beloved outdoor shopping mall. Vacant storefronts, few people and security guards at those shops that were open. I hope the city of Santa Monica can finally address its ongoing problem with the homeless as it appears the city will suffer greatly this summer when tourists don’t show up. Think about your destination and your dollars. I am very very upset to write this but believe people should know what’s happening
Written 24 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Madrewith3kids
Minneapolis, MN125 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
Went there on 6/9/22 around 4:00 pm. I did notice a handful of stores were out of business or left but there were a good amount of stores there that were open so it wasn’t dead. There was still a good hopping vibe. There was a guy doing stand up comedy on the outdoor stage and another guy playing an electric piano. Overall fun place to spend an afternoon. There were some homeless people there but they didn’t bother anyone. They seem to keep to themselves.
Written 10 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maria T
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Family
Disappointed. The price has gone up and they now limit your time for a $20 ticket to just one hour. If you have kids that are trying to learn, or want to take a break for a hot chocolate, an hour is not enough time and it’s a rip off for $20 a person (including kids). Not going back under this owner.
Written 12 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What time will Salsa dancing take place on the Promenade today?
Written 10 September 2023
It's a corridor that is sectioned off from cars. You can only walk down the streets. If you go on the weekends and evenings, you'll find buskers. The stores are just regular stores that you would find in any regular mall. They have string lights above the street so it's fun.
Written 13 January 2020
How long is the average visit? 1 hour? 2 hours?
Written 8 January 2019
My visit was for about 1,5 hours. Just walked up on on side and down the other. Only window shopping and listening/looking at performing artists.
Written 9 January 2019
Hi, where exactly did you park? Is it super easy to figure out? I want to put it into my gps so I can just roll right in and park, thanks!
Written 29 April 2018
Parking garages clearly marked and all around.
Written 8 January 2019
There is an on-site parking garage.
Written 4 November 2017
Are the stores open later at night? I am assuming the restaurants are open but we may not get to the promenade until after dinner hours. Thanks
Written 14 June 2017
I saw water bowls outside and lots of small dogs so on the walk/street I'd say yes. However in the stores it's probably a store by store decision.
Written 29 March 2017
Does the Promenade have any sort of NYE activities?
Written 26 December 2016
I'm not sure about the promenade itself but you probably can fine in the nearby clubs or pubs, i know about the Britannia Pub at California State route 2, one block from 3rd street, they had a great Burlesque show but it is one night a week.. sadly i forgot which night was it but you could always ask them.. cheers and have fun
Written 29 December 2016
Perdona-me, no me recuerdo de esta tienda.
Written 27 December 2016
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