One Of The West Coast's Largest Art Galleries Is Like A Unique Shopping Mall For Craft Lovers

Though it might boast one of the most famous beaches in the world, Santa Monica is so much more than just sun and sand. From the always bustling Third Street Promenade to eclectic boutiques on Montana Avenue, the city is also a great place to get your shopping on. Add in the culinary hotspots, trippy psychedelic experiences, and loads of cute coffee shops, and you have a covetable destination doused in creativity and culture. Whether you're craving art, an amazing meal, or just a really good workout, Santa Monica has it all covered.

Tucked just a 10-minute drive from the shoreline lies Bergamot Station, a creative oasis in an otherwise bustling part of town. What was once a historic railway station is now a sprawling art complex and one of the West Coast's largest destinations to experience art and culture. With nearly 30 galleries and creative spaces, this one-of-a-kind hub gives off the vibes of a unique marketplace (or mall, even), offering a diverse mix of contemporary art, cool shopping, and cultural experiences. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon soaking up new sources of inspiration.

As a key player in the arts and culture scene of the city, Bergamot Station strives to democratize access to the arts with free exhibitions and performances. It's also responsible for creating some top-notch public educational programs, events, and artist residencies designed to serve the community. As a cultural hub, you'll find a little bit of everything: fine art paintings, mixed media sculptures, theater performances, poetry readings, and more. It's pretty much a one-stop shop for all things creative.

When figuring out how to conquer this sprawling space, the best approach is to just wander. Two standout spots in the area are the Richard Heller Gallery and Lois Lambert Gallery, where visitors can explore awe-inspiring contemporary works. For an action-packed evening, City Garage Theater and The Crow offer live performances and comedy shows. There's also a gallery store where you can purchase some pretty rad artisan goods. And if you're looking for something a little more structured, Bergamot Station hosts gallery tours some Saturday afternoons, which feature artist talks, food, and entertainment. Whether you're looking to discover new hidden gems or make a memorable stop on your scenic Highway 1 road trip, Bergamot Station is a creative haven you definitely don't want to miss.