3rd Street Promenade

You are now on Third Street Promenade, one of the best-known streets in Santa Monica and one of the few historic pedestrian districts still active in Southern California. About three blocks long, this shopping avenue has existed since the late 19th century, but it has changed significantly over time. In the 60s, faced with growing competition from suburban shopping centers, the city decided to close the street to cars and turn it into a space entirely dedicated to pedestrians. The project, known at the time as Santa Monica Mall, initially enjoyed success before gradually declining. In the late 80s, the city chose to rethink everything: the street was renovated, modernized and reopened in 1989 under the name Third Street Promenade, with trees, fountains, artworks and spaces designed for strolling. The success was immediate, and for several decades, the area became one of the liveliest places in the region, attracting millions of visitors each year, with cinemas, restaurants, shops and many street performers contributing to its unique atmosphere.