Santa Monica Museums and Theaters
BERGAMOT STATION ARTS CENTER
A train station turned creative complex, Bergamot Station houses more than 40 galleries and cultural institutions. The multi-use space is also home to regular artistic events. Bergamot Station: 2525 Michigan Ave; 310-453-7535
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THE GETTY CENTER
Architect Richard Meier’s iconic concrete and steel circular building holds a world-renowned collection of artworks, ranging from contemporary sculptures to illuminated manuscripts and photographs. Visitors will also enjoy the sweeping gardens and views of Los Angeles. The Getty Center: 1200 Getty Center Drive; 310-440-7300
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THE GETTY VILLA
Unlike Meier’s ultra-modern Getty Center, the Getty Villa is designed to look like a first-century Roman country house. Fittingly, the collections include ancient Greek and Roman art and antiquities dating back nearly 7,000 years. The Getty Villa: 17985 Pacific Coast Highway; 310-440-7300
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SANTA MONICA HISTORY MUSEUM
Dig into Santa Monica’s unique heritage with an interactive timeline, collections of archival photographs and artifacts (the city’s first newspaper, for example), and a rotating mix of exhibits. Tributes to the Santa Monica native, Shirley Temple, are frequent. Call in advance to schedule an informative group tour. Santa Monica History Museum: 1350 7th Street; (310) 395-2290
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THE BROAD STAGE
Catch a show at this 500-seat-theater, which has hosted performers ranging from Lil Buck to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Whether you’re interested in opera, poetry, lectures, or hip-hop, you can probably find something to suit your interests live at The Broad. The Broad Stage: 1310 11th St; 310-434-3200
18TH STREET ARTS CENTER
Public talks, block parties and art workshops are just a few of the ways visitors can enjoy their time at the 18th Street Arts Center. When there isn’t a special event on the calendar, visitors can peruse the center’s public galleries. 18th Street Arts Center: 1639 18th Street; 310-453-4347
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WESTSIDE COMEDY THEATER
Improv, stand-up, and variety shows are always on tap at Westside Comedy. Well-known performers and up-and-comers keep audiences packed in. Westside Comedy Theater: 1323-A 3rd St, 310-451-0850.
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