Santa Monica is a lovely coastal city located just west of downtown Los Angeles, best known as the home of the delightful Santa Monica Pier and Beach, one of Southern California's most iconic landmarks. The free-admission pier is known for its Pacific Park amusement park, which showcases family-friendly rides and attractions such as the National Historic Landmark 1922 Looff Hippodrome Carousel and the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel. Visitors can explore the charming Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, the Muscle Beach outdoor gymnasium, and picturesque Palisades Park, which offers unparalleled Pacific Ocean views. Public works of art abound, along with cultural attractions like the Bergamot Station Arts Center. Other unique attractions include Chess Park, which lets visitors engage in competitive games of blitz chess.

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