Explore 5 UCPlaces digital self-guided tours in Santa Monica

Welcome to Route 66! Today, we're beginning at the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica and heading east toward San Bernardino, following the Mother Road through Los Angeles and the communities along the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Now, if you're already east of Los Angeles, you can begin your Route 66 journey with our next tour starting in San Bernardino. But if you're anywhere near Santa Monica, we highly recommend starting right here. There's a reason. For travelers historically heading west, this was the final stretch of Route 66 — the last chapter of an incredible journey across America before reaching the Pacific. And that means there's a lot of Route 66 history packed into the road we're about to travel. We'll begin at the famous western terminus in Santa Monica, travel through Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, follow historic sections of the Mother Road through Pasadena and along Foothill Boulevard, and discover some wonderful pieces of roadside Americana along the way. We'll see historic motels and service stations, unusual roadside architecture, monuments that actually predate Route 66, and even the place where one of the world's most famous fast-food stories began. And as we travel east, you'll notice the character of the road beginning to change. The dense streets of Los Angeles gradually give way to the classic Route 66 corridor that will eventually carry us toward the wide-open landscapes of the American Southwest. This tour ends in San Bernardino, but our Route 66 journey certainly doesn't. From there, simply start the next UCPlaces Route 66 tour and we'll continue heading east together. So get comfortable, follow the navigation, and let's turn our backs on the Pacific and begin one of the world's great road trips. Chicago may be a long way from here — but Route 66 starts for us right now.

Bienvenidos a su recorrido en coche de UCPlaces por Los Ángeles, donde el sol luce radiante, las palmeras se mecen y cada parada tiene una historia que contar. Arrancamos en las relajadas y coloridas orillas de Venice Beach, donde artistas callejeros, skaters y botes de cisne marcan el ambiente para esta aventura tan angelina. Desde allí, recorreremos barrios legendarios, exploraremos monumentos mundialmente famosos y nos empaparemos de la mezcla única de la ciudad: glamour, cultura y ese estilo californiano tan chulo. Por el camino, haremos paradas en lugares de moda como Rodeo Drive, el Paseo de la Fama de Hollywood y el deslumbrante Sunset Strip, con un montón de sorpresas y datos curiosos salpicados por aquí y por allá. Tanto si eres un visitante primerizo como un local buscando una nueva perspectiva, este tour es tu pase VIP a algunas de las mejores vistas —e historias— que Los Ángeles tiene para ofrecer. Nuestro viaje terminará en lo alto de la ciudad, en el impresionante Observatorio Griffith, donde podrás disfrutar de vistas panorámicas de L.A. y de las estrellas. Así que, abróchense los cinturones, bajen las ventanillas y ¡a la carretera! ¡Los Ángeles nos espera!

Welcome to the ultimate self-guided driving tour of Santa Monica, designed for both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts! Get ready for a seamless journey through the city's most beloved landmarks and hidden gems. This meticulously planned itinerary ensures you experience the best of Santa Monica without the hassle of backtracking, allowing you to soak in the sun-drenched beauty and vibrant culture at your own pace. Your adventure begins at the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, an iconic symbol of Southern California with its historic carousel and Pacific Park. From there, you'll discover the serene beauty of Tongva Park, offering stunning ocean vistas, before cruising along the scenic bluffs of Palisades Park, home to the historic Camera Obscura. Dive into the bustling energy of the Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian paradise for shopping and street performers, then explore the upscale offerings of Santa Monica Place. The tour then takes you to the architectural grandeur of Santa Monica City Hall, a testament to the city's rich history, followed by a drive down the charming Main Street, known for its unique boutiques and eateries. Reconnect with the beach vibe at the historic Original Muscle Beach, a nod to the area's fitness legacy. Continue your coastal exploration to the elegant Annenberg Community Beach House, a public oasis with a storied past. Finally, ascend to the chic Montana Avenue Shopping District, where high-end boutiques and cafes offer a taste of local luxury. This tour is packed with Instagrammable spots and must-see attractions, promising a memorable and engaging exploration of Santa Monica's diverse charm.

Welcome to the final day of your legendary Route 66 journey! Today’s drive takes you from San Bernardino to the sparkling shores of Santa Monica, California — where the iconic Mother Road officially comes to an end. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned Route 66 enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime on this ultimate Route 66 road trip. This trip focuses on the Mother Road and will guide you through 17 points of interest, including the Wigwam Motel, Original McDonald's Museum, Arroyo Seco Historic Parkway, Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills and the Santa Monica Pier.

Welcome to your UCPlaces driving tour of Los Angeles, where the sun shines bright, the palm trees sway, and every stop has a story to tell! We’re starting things off at the laid-back, colorful shores of Venice Beach, where street performers, skaters, and swan boats set the tone for this uniquely L.A. adventure. From there, we’ll cruise through legendary neighborhoods, explore world-famous landmarks, and soak up the city's one-of-a-kind blend of glamor, culture, and California cool. Along the way, we’ll stop by hotspots like Rodeo Drive, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the dazzling Sunset Strip, with plenty of surprises and fun facts sprinkled in. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local looking for a fresh perspective, this tour is your VIP pass to some of the best sights—and stories—that Los Angeles has to offer. Our journey will end high above the city at the stunning Griffith Observatory, where you can take in sweeping views of L.A. and the stars above. So buckle up, roll down the windows, and let’s hit the road—Los Angeles is waiting!