Thinking back to our time in Santa Monica in 2012, Jamie and I often reminisce about our casual strolls along the bustling 3rd Street Promenade. Located in the heart of Santa Monica, this vibrant downtown area has always been a go-to spot for us, with its fantastic eateries, quirky shops, and lively street performers. Returning to 3rd Street Promenade with kids recently, our visit was all about laid-back enjoyment.
This was part of our Winter Break roadtrip. See our visit from the day before to Universal Studios Hollywood…
Why 3rd Street Promenade with Kids is Great!
Ideal Location:
Situated right next to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier and close to the beach, the Third Street Promenade offers easy access to iconic attractions and stunning coastal views.
Dining Options:
Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely meal, the promenade boasts a variety of dining options catering to all tastes, making it convenient for families with kids.
Shopping and Souvenirs: From everyday essentials to unique souvenirs, the promenade’s diverse array of shops makes it a one-stop destination for any shopping needs.
Entertainment: Kids will be delighted by the lively street performances and talented artists showcasing their talents along the promenade, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
Family-Friendly Walk: The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly layout make it easy for kids to explore the promenade on foot, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for families to stroll and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Vibrant Vibes and Scenery: With its bustling ambiance and picturesque surroundings, the promenade exudes a lively vibe and offers stunning views of the surrounding area, creating a memorable experience for kids and parents alike.
Proximity to Tongva Park: Adjacent to Tongva Park, a fantastic park and playground for kids, the promenade provides additional opportunities for outdoor fun and recreation, making it an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a day out in Santa Monica.
What is 3rd Street Promenade?
The 3rd Street Promenade is a renowned pedestrian-only street located in the heart of downtown Santa Monica, California. Originally established in the late 1960s, the promenade underwent significant redevelopment in the late 1980s to transform it into the bustling retail, dining, and entertainment hub it is today. Lined with a diverse array of shops, restaurants, cafes, and theaters, the promenade offers a vibrant atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists alike. Its lively ambiance is further enhanced by talented street performers, musicians, and artists who entertain visitors as they stroll along the bustling thoroughfare. The Third Street Promenade has become an iconic destination in Southern California, offering a unique blend of culture, commerce, and community in the picturesque coastal city of Santa Monica.
For more on 3rd Street Promenade, check out their website.
Location:
3rd Street Promenade falls on 3rd St. between Wilshire Blvd and Colorado Ave ending at Santa Monica Place.
Parking
There are plenty of parking options for 3rd Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place but we opted for some great parking on 2nd Street. This was new to us since a decade ago we could just walk here from our apartment.
Going up north next? See our visit to State Street in Santa Barbara here…
Santa Monica Place – A Premier Outdoor Mall
Santa Monica Place is a great place to start or end your Third Street Promenade journey. Located at the south end of 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica Place is a premier shopping and dining destination. Renowned for its coastal charm, the open-air center features high-end boutiques, diverse dining options, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re browsing shops, enjoying a meal, or entertaining the kids, Santa Monica Place offers something for everyone in a vibrant, Southern California setting.
Strolling down 3rd Street Promenade with kids
The kids were immediately drawn to the playful dinosaur-themed water features dotted around the promenade. These quirky installations added a touch of whimsy to our outing, providing some extra entertainment as we explored the area.
As for shopping, well, let’s just say it was a hit-or-miss affair with the kids. While some stores briefly piqued their interest, most of our time was spent meandering around and taking in the eclectic sights and sounds of the Promenade.
But that’s the beauty of 3rd Street Promenade – it’s not about ticking off a checklist of must-do activities; it’s simply about enjoying the moment. Whether we were watching a street performer captivate the crowd or grabbing a quick bite to eat at one of the casual spots, the atmosphere was always relaxed and welcoming.
Our visit was short and sweet, just a few hours of leisurely exploration. We skipped dining at any of the fancy restaurants this time around, opting instead for a more low-key experience.
As we wrapped up our visit and headed back towards Santa Monica Place, we couldn’t help but appreciate the laid-back vibe of the Promenade. Whether you’re a local looking for a chill afternoon out or a visitor seeking a taste of Santa Monica’s relaxed charm, a trip to 3rd Street Promenade with kids is sure to be a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
