Pacific Park

About

Pacific Park stands as Santa Monica's beloved oceanfront amusement park, perched dramatically on the famous Santa Monica Pier. This vibrant destination combines classic carnival charm with modern attractions, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The park features the iconic Pacific Wheel, a solar-powered Ferris wheel that lights up the coastline each evening with its colorful LED display.

Visitors can experience a variety of rides ranging from the gentle Pacific Plunge roller coaster to family-friendly carousel rides and thrilling spinning attractions. The midway games offer classic carnival entertainment where guests can try their luck at ring toss, basketball shooting, and prize wheels. The park's location directly on the beach means you'll enjoy ocean breezes and panoramic coastal views from many of the rides.

Beyond the rides, Pacific Park serves as a gateway to Santa Monica's broader attractions. The adjacent Santa Monica Pier features additional dining options, street performers, and the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. The beach itself stretches for miles in both directions, perfect for post-ride relaxation or beachcombing.

The park operates year-round, though hours vary by season. Summer brings extended evening hours when the pier truly comes alive with twinkling lights and bustling crowds. During quieter months, visitors can enjoy a more relaxed experience with shorter wait times and easier parking. The location is easily accessible by public transit, including the Metro Expo Line that terminates just blocks away, making it a convenient destination for visitors throughout the Los Angeles area.

Accessibility

Pacific Park demonstrates a strong commitment to accessibility with several accommodating features for visitors with disabilities. The venue includes wheelchair-accessible pathways and a convenient auxiliary entrance specifically designed for visitors with mobility impairments. Many rides and attractions can accommodate wheelchair users, and service animals are welcome throughout the park and permitted on select rides.

The surrounding Santa Monica Pier area features ADA-compliant restrooms and designated accessible parking spaces. Beach access paths in the immediate vicinity were designed with wheelchair users in mind, providing easier access to the oceanfront. The park's location on level pier surfaces generally provides good mobility for wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Staff members receive training to assist guests with disabilities, and the park welcomes service animals as working partners for their handlers. However, specific details about individual ride accessibility, sensory accommodations, and current assistive services may vary. Contact Pacific Park directly for the most current information about accessibility features for specific rides, any temporary accessibility modifications, and to discuss particular accommodation needs before your visit.

More accessible places in California

• Griffith Observatory (Los Angeles)
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) (Los Angeles)
• San Diego Zoo (San Diego)
• Yosemite National Park (Yosemite)
• Exploratorium (San Francisco)
• Aquarium of the Pacific (Long Beach)