The Rebirth of Our Home: Why Investing in the Future of Pacific Palisades is a Generational Opportunity

For anyone who lives or works on the Westside, the unique magic of Pacific Palisades requires no explanation. We already know it as one of the most remarkable coastal neighborhoods in the world.

Right now, however, the town finds itself in a highly unique, once-in-a-lifetime window. As the community continues to push forward and rebuild from the impacts of the Palisades Fire, a rare landscape has opened up for visionary local buyers and long-term investors. A significant number of prime parcels are ready for new life, offering an unprecedented chance to introduce next-generation legacy homes and innovative businesses back into this area. Investing in Palisades right now isn't just a sound financial play—it is an active investment in shaping the next chapter of the community we love.

The Market Case: Data-Backed Longevity

While other Southern California micro-markets experience seasonal volatility, the underlying fundamentals of Pacific Palisades remain remarkably resilient. Looking at the data from May and June 2026, the numbers show a highly favorable landscape for long-term capital:

• Strategic Entry Window: Active inventory across the Westside is up roughly 15% year-over-year, shifting the local landscape into a balanced discovery market. For land and development acquisitions, this provides buyers with rare negotiation leverage that simply didn't exist two years ago.

• Premium Value Retention: The median sales price for single-family homes in Palisades continues to hold strong above $4.4M, proving that demand for this specific zip code remains entirely insulated from broader macroeconomic shifts.

• The Turn-Key Premium: Newly constructed legacy homes in the area are fetching historic premiums, frequently trading between $1,800 to $2,500+ per square foot. Acquiring prime land now to build custom architectural estates offers a massive equity upside upon completion.

For the Community, By the Community: The Palisades Towne Hall

What truly sets Palisades apart isn't just the real estate metrics; it is the fierce, protective love the residents have for their town. A beautiful example of this civic devotion is a new, innovative project spearheaded by native Palisadian Brian Garrett.

Garrett, a venture capitalist who—like our own Colin Wellman—was born and raised in Palisades, channeled his personal heartbreak over local fire damage into a fast-moving, grassroots civic project: The Palisades Towne Hall. Intended as a mobile, modular outdoor marketplace at Via de la Paz, it will feature food kiosks, a mini-grocer, and spaces for neighbors to gather.

The community's response was immediate and overwhelming, shattering its initial $250,000 crowdfunding goal in just over a week, crossing the $300,000 mark by late June. Operating on a zero-profit model, it perfectly embodies the resilient spirit of the town.

“The idea is so much bigger than me," Garrett shared. "This is for the community and by the community... We need a place to convene, to come together and keep tackling the problems that we face.”

It’s this exact caliber of local devotion that guarantees the long-term value of the area. People don't just buy houses here; they invest in a collective vision.

Featured New Ocean View Listing: 15363 Via De Las Olas

For those looking to anchor their own legacy in this next chapter, opportunities do not get more elite than our new premier listing at 15363 Via De Las Olas.

Located on one of the most prestigious, commanding streets in all of Palisades, this exceptional lot sits perched directly overlooking the ocean. It represents the ultimate blank canvas—a pure, blue-chip piece of coastal real estate waiting for a visionary buyer to design a custom architectural masterpiece. To secure a lot of this caliber, with unobstructed ocean views on a street known for its historic estates, is a true "right place, right time" moment.

The Campbell Wellman Take

True luxury real estate relies on scarcity and community spirit, and Pacific Palisades has an abundance of both," says the team. We are seeing a unique moment where the scarcity of premium land has temporarily opened up, allowing buyers to step in and build something that will stand for the next fifty years. 

When you look at the immediate, overwhelming success of grassroots projects like Brian Garrett’s Towne Hall, it proves that the heartbeat of this town is stronger than ever. Palisades isn't just rebuilding; it’s evolving. For the forward-thinking investor, there is no safer or more inspiring place to put down roots.

The Penmar Pitch TODAY: World Cup Soccer Meets Sunset Sessions on the Fairway

If you need any more proof that The Penmar is the best community living room for the Venice and Mar Vista neighborhoods, this Friday, June 19th, is about to settle the score.

The venue is transforming its famous driving range into the "Penmar Pitch"—the Westside’s premier open-air watch party for the global soccer stage. They are kicking off the weekend early by merging high-stakes international tournament action with their beloved Friday Sunset Sessions.

We’re talking world-class soccer on the grass, crisp coastal air, cold drinks, and heavy-hitting live music to carry you straight into the weekend.

The Early Play: USA vs. Australia

Forget crowded, dark sports bars. The Penmar is taking the beautiful game outdoors, putting the match on every single screen with the sound fully turned on so you won't miss a single chant, whistle, or goal.

• 11:30 AM: The lawn officially opens. Get down there early to claim your patch of green, set up your low-profile chairs, and beat the lunch rush.

• 12:00 PM: Kickoff for the highly anticipated USA vs. Australia match.

• The Best Part? Entry to the watch party is completely FREE. It's the perfect excuse to take an extended Friday "lunch break" with colleagues or bring the family out for an afternoon on the grass.

The Halftime Shift: Sunset Sessions with Rob Leines

Once the final whistle blows on the pitch, the energy shifts seamlessly into Friday night festival mode. Don't even think about packing up your blankets, because the Sunset Sessions live music lineup starts rocking right at 4:00 PM.

Taking the main stage from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM is Rob Leines. If you aren't familiar with the name, Leines is a certified country-rock powerhouse who has spent years burning up the highway and sharing major festival stages with southern rock titans like Whiskey Myers. Expect a high-octane, soulful performance that pairs perfectly with a cold draft beer or a crisp glass of wine as the golden hour settles over the fairway.

Get Tickets…

Spicing Up Father’s Day: The Venice Beach Chili Cook-Off & Paddle Chug Challenge

If your Father’s Day blueprint usually involves a quiet backyard barbecue, the Venice Pier is offering a massive upgrade this year.

This Sunday, June 21st, starting at 10:00 AM, the Venice Pier Association and local beachfront favorite Nalu Vida are teaming up to present the ultimate beachside showdown: the Venice Beach Chili Cook-Off and Paddle & Chug Challenge. It is an all-day festival blending heat on the plate with high-stakes athletic competition on the sand.

Whether you are down to compete for cash prizes, taste-test secret family recipes, or just drink a cold beverage in the beachside beer garden while cheering from the sidelines, it is the perfect formula for an unforgettable, distinctly local Father's Day out.

The Main Event: The Paddle & Chug Challenge

For the boldest fathers and competitors on the Westside, the event’s crown jewel is the Paddle & Chug Challenge. It is a high-octane multi-sport sprint that captures the raw, gritty athletic spirit of the Southern California coast:

• The Paddle: Competitors launch straight into the surf, navigating their boards around the iconic structural pilings of the Venice Pier.

• The Run: After fighting the current back to shore, racers hit the sand for a grueling half-mile beachfront soft-sand sprint.

• The Chug: The race culminates in a final, 21-and-over beverage chug challenge at the finish line. The fastest combined time across all three segments takes home the trophy!

• Divisions for Everyone: The challenge features youth, adult, masters, and team relay divisions, ensuring a great mix of local athletes hit the water.

Spice and Sounds: The Beachside Festival

If navigating ocean breaks before downing a cold drink isn't your speed, the festival grounds around Washington Blvd and the pier offer plenty of laid-back entertainment:

• The Chili Cook-Off: Local businesses—including legendary spots like Hinano Cafe, The Whaler, and Fat Sal's—are putting their best culinary footprints forward. You can sample your way through a massive variety of recipes and cast your official vote to crown the best chili on the Westside.

• The Atmosphere: The entire block will be alive with live music sets from local bands like The Slurkeys, live DJs, a sprawling mechanical bull for the brave, and plenty of local artisan vendors to explore. 

• GET CONTESTANT INFO HERE: venicepierdistrict@gmail.com

The Venice Beach Takeover: Celebrate Father’s Day (and Go Skateboarding Day) with Skate Legend P-Rod

If you are looking for the absolute perfect, high-energy way to spend Father’s Day this weekend, look no further than the boardwalk.

This Sunday, June 21, at 12:00 PM, Council District 11 is teaming up with street skating royalty for the CD11 x PRod Go Skate Day 2026: Venice Beach Takeover. Strategically falling on the summer solstice—the longest day of the year—Go Skateboarding Day is a global celebration of freedom and self-expression on four wheels.

There is no place more synonymous with the history of skate culture than Venice Beach, and this Sunday, the community is coming together to activate the area with that energy. Whether you're a lifelong skater or looking for an incredibly fun family day out on the beach, it’s an awesome plan.

Meet the Legend: Paul Rodriguez (P-Rod)

Paul "P-Rod" Rodriguez is a legendary professional skateboarder—and a foundational icon of modern street skating. As a multi-time X Games gold medalist and one of the most naturally gifted, influential street skaters of the 21st century, P-Rod has spent decades pushing the boundaries of what is possible on a board.

Known for his flawless style, technical precision, and deep roots in Southern California, having him host a hometown event in Venice is a massive deal for local skate enthusiasts and families alike. In fact, the city is officially recognizing the date as "Paul Rodriguez Day" to celebrate his enduring impact on local youth and street culture.

What to Expect at the Takeover

The Venice Beach Takeover is an entirely free community event designed to bring skate fans, families, and local businesses together. The afternoon lineup packs a heavy punch of street culture:

• The Action: Open skate sessions at the legendary Venice Skatepark, a massive skate jam, and a highly anticipated $5,000 Best Trick Contest where local talent will square off for serious bragging rights.

• The Festival Vibe: Beyond the ramps, the boardwalk will be alive with live music, local food vendors, pop-up shopping, and massive product giveaways.

• The Ultimate Father’s Day Out: Bring the dads, the kids, and the cameras. Even if you have never stepped foot on a board, the energy, athleticism, and local camaraderie make it an incredibly entertaining spectacle to watch while soaking up the summer sun.

The Campbell Wellman Take

Venice Beach has always been the epicenter of creative street culture, and events like this are the lifeblood of our coastal neighborhoods. What we love most about this takeover is how it bridges generations. Skateboarding is a definitive part of the Westside’s DNA, and seeing parents who grew up watching P-Rod now bringing their own kids down to the boardwalk to watch him live is exactly what community is all about. If you're trying to figure out how to mix up the standard Father's Day routine this year, grab some lunch, head down to the sand, and witness some incredible local athleticism. It’s exactly the kind of casual, high-vibe afternoon that makes living in Westside LA so special. (RSVP to lock in your spot)

The Artist’s Canvas: David Hockney Turned Humble L.A. Real Estate Into a Masterpiece

The art world is pausing this week to remember the legendary British painter David Hockney, who has passed away peacefully in London at the age of 88. While he was born a world away in Yorkshire, England, Hockney’s creative soul belonged undeniably to Southern California.

Arriving in Los Angeles for the first time in 1963, Hockney fell instantly in love with the bright, sun-drenched coastal lifestyle. His iconic pop-art depictions of brilliant blue skies, mid-century architecture, and shimmering swimming pools didn't just document the city—they actively helped define the visual identity of modern Los Angeles.

But his deepest connection to the city wasn't just captured on canvas; it was built directly into the real estate he left behind.

From a $181K "Drab" Ranch to a Living Masterpiece

Over the decades, Hockney owned two notable pieces of Southern California property: a classic Malibu beach house on the Pacific Coast Highway (which he sold in 1999) and a modest, brown ranch-style home tucked away in the Hollywood Hills.

Purchased in 1981 for just $181,500, that humble hillside bungalow became the ultimate canvas for his personal life. Room by room, Hockney completely eradicated its drab exterior and interior, transforming it into a vibrant, colorful sanctuary that defied the neutral trends of the era:

• The Palette: Inspired by theatrical opera sets, he painted the wrap-around balcony railings a deep, electric blue and framed the windows in bright, sunny yellow.

• The Living Canvas: His creative expression spilled directly into the backyard, where he hand-painted the bottom of his swimming pool with his signature "wiggly lines" to capture the constant movement of water.

• The Spirit: Despite the bold design choices, Hockney famously noted that the colors were merely a backdrop. "It is the spirit you fill it with that is important," he shared. "That spirit is in the house, but of course color helps the spirit."

The Luxury of Los Angeles Privacy

For Hockney, his Hollywood Hills estate was far more than an eccentric design project—it was a crucial professional sanctuary. In an interview with Architectural Digest, he noted that while he loved visitors, the frantic paces of London or New York made it impossible to get any real work done.

Los Angeles offered him a unique geographical shield. Hidden away in the hills, he was able to completely tune out the noise of the outside world, focus entirely on his studio practice, and find solace during times of personal grief. The vibrant interiors of the home even served as the direct subject matter for several of his later masterpieces.

The Campbell Wellman Take

Hockney’s relationship with Los Angeles real estate perfectly mirrors what we tell our clients every day: a home isn’t just an asset; it’s an extension of your identity. He took a completely standard, unassuming 1980s ranch home and turned it into an international landmark of personal expression.  Furthermore, his appreciation for LA’s privacy reminds us why our hillside and coastal areas remain so universally desirable. Whether you are a world-renowned artist or a busy modern professional, the ability to close your gates, escape the noise, and create your own private environment is the ultimate luxury.

The Pre-Listing Glow-Up: Value-Adding Fixes for a High-End Summer Sale

With summer officially here, the Westside and South Bay real estate markets are seeing their signature seasonal surge in moving trucks. When the sun is out, buyers are highly active—but they are also incredibly discerning.

When preparing to sell your home, it is natural to feel a rush to the finish line. You want to capture the seasonal momentum, or perhaps you've already eyed your next dream property. However, rushing to market without addressing key aesthetic and structural details can be an expensive mistake. In a market where turn-key properties command a massive premium, cutting corners on your presentation tells buyers they can cut corners on their offers.

To maximize your return on investment (ROI) and secure a swift sale, the Campbell Wellman team has outlined the most impactful, high-value pre-listing glow-ups you should make before the first open house.

1. Frame the Experience: High-Impact Landscaping

First impressions are established the moment a buyer pulls up to the curb. Homes are frequently judged by their covers, and strategic landscaping can substantially elevate a property’s perceived market value.

• The Quick Fix: Replace your welcome mat with a fresh, minimalist option, clean up the entryway hardware, and apply a flawless coat of paint or stain to the front door.

• The Investment: Hire a professional landscaper to edge the lawns, trim back overgrown foliage to let more natural light hit the windows, and plant fresh, native coastal flora like agaves or white sage. Ensure your outdoor furniture on the porch or patio looks staged, fresh, and inviting.

2. Elevate the Flooring: Retire the Carpeting

One of the fastest ways to stall a luxury listing is dirty or dated carpeting. Today's buyers don't just see old carpet as an aesthetic mismatch—they view it as an immediate expense and a construction headache. Rather than letting buyers mentally deduct the cost of new floors from your asking price, handle the upgrade upfront. Investing in pristine hardwood flooring completely shifts the emotional tone of a home, making spaces feel larger, cleaner, and immediately move-in ready.

3. The Structural Check: Real-World Windows and Doors

Do not assume buyers will mistake sticky windows, creaking doors, or loose sliders for "coastal charm." During private showings, buyers and their inspectors will actively test these touchpoints. When a door doesn’t track properly or a window requires force to open, it triggers a psychological red flag. Buyers instantly begin to wonder what else hasn't been properly maintained behind the walls. Spend a weekend ensuring all hardware operates smoothly.

4. Wash and Neutralize: The Power of Clean Walls

Over years of living in a beautiful home, it is easy to become blind to daily wear and tear. Subtle scuffs, fingerprints around light switches, and minor drywall dings stand out immediately to a fresh set of eyes.

• If your budget allows, painting your interior walls in a soft, light-reflective neutral tone is always the gold standard. It maximizes the bright, airy coastal aesthetic Westside buyers crave.

• If a full paint job isn't in the cards, a deep, professional washing of the walls, baseboards, and interior doors goes an incredibly long way.

5. Clear the Storage: Edit and Organize the Cabinetry

Serious buyers are natural investigators—they will open your kitchen cabinets, pantry, and primary closets. They aren't trying to be nosy; they are evaluating storage capacity. If your cabinets are overflowing with clutter, buyers perceive the home as lacking functional storage. Take the time to purge, organize, and check for any loose drawers, hinges, or uneven shelving.

6. Modernize the Ambiance: Architectural Lighting

Lighting fixtures function exactly like fashion; they quickly give away a home's age. Dated, heavy, or poorly placed fixtures can make an architecturally stunning space feel tired. Swapping out old sconces or faded chandeliers for clean, contemporary, and minimalist light fixtures is a relatively low-cost investment that yields massive visual returns. Pair these new fixtures with matching, warm-white LED bulbs throughout the home to keep the lighting consistent and bright.

The Spiegel Wellman Perspective

“In the luxury architectural space, the details are the design,” notes the Spiegel Wellman team. “When we advise clients on structural prep or renovations, we look closely at how materials interact with the coastal environment. Beyond the cosmetic updates, ensure your building envelope is pristine. Addressing minor stucco cracks, ensuring your HVAC system is serviced with fresh filters, and verifying that your architectural glass is flawlessly clean are non-negotiable step-ones."

"When a home functions seamlessly and looks immaculate, it removes friction from the escrow process. It signals to high-net-worth buyers that the home has been curated and cared for with the highest standards.”

Good Vibes on the Greens: Jam in the Van Joins The Penmar Sunset Sessions

We are currently cruising through Season 6 of the legendary Sunset Sessions at The Penmar, and this week, the ultimate outdoor neighborhood ritual is leveling up. This Friday, the world-famous mobile recording studio and music discovery channel Jam in the Van is rolling onto the lush greens of the Venice/Mar Vista border for an absolute blockbuster of an evening.

If you've been waiting for the perfect excuse to round up your neighbors, throw down a picnic blanket, and watch the sun dip behind the Santa Monica Mountains, this is your sign.

The Itinerary: Live Recording Sessions Meet the Main Stage

This isn't your average backyard live music gig. Jam in the Van is turning the golf course into an active, open-air studio, blending intimate live tracking with a massive festival energy. Here is how the afternoon and evening map out:

• The Van Sessions (Starting at 4:00 PM): Get to the fairway early to watch the magic happen. Jam in the Van will be hosting exclusive, live-recorded sessions featuring five unique artists inside the van throughout the afternoon.

• The Main Stage Lineup: Once the golden hour hits, the focus shifts to the big stage on the lawn:

• 6:00 PM: The soulful Americana and raw storytelling of Will Worden (@godspeedwarrior).

• 7:30 PM: The high-energy, rock-infused grooves of Johnny Marfa & The Lights (@johnnymarfaandthelights).

An Elevated Touch: The Hampton Water Suite

For those looking to experience the evening with a premium upgrade, the event is featuring the Hampton Water Sunset Sessions Suite Entrance.

Access to this exclusive, dedicated space on the fairway is open to all Sunset Sessions Season Pass holders, or anyone who purchases a bottle of Hampton Water Rosé either online in advance or right at the suite door. It's the perfect crisp, seasonal pour to pair with a classic Westside sunset.

The Campbell Wellman Take

What makes The Penmar so special—and why it has become the true heartbeat of our local community—is its effortless ability to bring people together. It has completely reimagined how a public space can serve a neighborhood. Transitioning from a casual local golf course by day into a vibrant, family-friendly cultural hub by night is pure Westside magic.

Bringing a globally recognized brand like Jam in the Van onto our homegrown turf is a brilliant intersection of the creative culture Venice is known for. Grab a low-profile U-shaped chair, secure your tickets, and we'll see you on the green. (Tickets)

Welcome Home: The Will Rogers July 4th Run Returns to Palisades

There is no place like Pacific Palisades on the Fourth of July, and this year, one of our favorite town traditions is officially coming home.

After being temporarily relocated to Venice Beach last year due to fire-related damage, the Palisades Will Rogers 5K/10K Run is returning to its historic, traditional course for its 48th year. This year's event holds an extra layer of meaning: not only does it coincide with the nation’s landmark 250th anniversary, but a portion of the proceeds will directly fund the ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts right here in our backyard.

Whether you are looking to set a personal record or just walk off some 4th of July barbecue, this is an awesome way to kick off Independence Day with your Palisades friends.

The Details: Four Ways to Move

Established in 1978, this beloved run serves as both a symbol of the neighborhood’s incredible resilience and the official morning starter for the town's holiday festivities. The event features four distinct races to accommodate runners (and walkers) of all ages and paces:

• The Traditional 10K: The iconic course winds its way through the breathtaking, shaded trails of Will Rogers State Park before heading toward the historic hometown finish line.

• The 5K Run & Walk: Perfect for families, casual joggers, and anyone wanting to catch up with neighbors while soaking in the morning coastal air.

• The Dick Lemon Run: A dedicated, competitive division specifically for local high school athletes.

• The Kids Fun Run: A half-mile dash designed to let the little ones get their energy out before the afternoon parades begin.

Racing for a Reason: Continuing the Rebuild

The impact of this race stretches far beyond the finish line. The organizing foundation has already contributed over $200,000 toward the reconstruction of the Palisades Recreation Park, which sustained heavy damage in the Palisades Fire.

With construction on the park slated to officially begin this summer, your race registration acts as a direct investment in the community. Proceeds and direct donations from this year’s event will continue to support local charities and the non-profit's ongoing recovery initiatives to ensure our public green spaces come back better than ever.

The Campbell Wellman Take

This event perfectly captures the tight-knit, deeply supportive culture that makes Pacific Palisades such an extraordinary place to live. When the fire impacted our neighborhood, everyone immediately asked how they could help. Seeing the race return to its historic home at Will Rogers State Park—while actively funding the park's summer rebuild—is a very cool nod to the strength of the Westside community.

If you're looking for a fun, feel-good way to celebrate the 4th of July, lace up and join us on the starting line. It’s a reminder that the best part of coastal living isn't just the scenery—it’s the neighbors who stand by it.

REGISTER HERE >>>

The Balanced Playbook: How Buyers and Sellers Succeed in LA’s New Discovery Market

If you listen to the national headlines, you’ll hear talk of a dramatic shift in real estate power dynamics. But on the ground in the Westside and South Bay, the reality as we enter June 2026 is far more nuanced. We aren’t experiencing a crash or a total buyer’s takeover; instead, we have officially entered a Balanced Discovery Market.

With regional active inventory up approximately 15% year-over-year and average days on market stretching toward 45 days, the frantic, reactionary pace of the last few years has dissipated. Buyers finally have the luxury of time and leverage, while well-positioned coastal homes continue to command strong, resilient values.

In a market where neither side has an outright monopoly on leverage, success comes down to strategy. Here is how both buyers and sellers can navigate this balanced landscape for a successful transaction.

The Buyer’s Playbook: Focus on "Yield Math" and Structural Opportunities

For the past few years, buyers had to act first and think later. Today, patience and financial creativity are your greatest assets.

• Marry the House, Date the Rate (Creatively): While mortgage rates have found a relative floor in the 6.3% to 6.5% range, smart buyers are bypassing traditional 30-year fixed negotiations. Requesting seller concessions to fund a 2-1 or 3-1 rate buy-down allows you to secure a significantly lower payment for the first few years of ownership.

• Look for the "Aspirational Anchor": Keep a close eye on listings that have crossed the 30-to-40-day mark. Many of these are great homes where the sellers initially anchored their expectations to peak 2022 pricing. As days on market climb, these sellers are increasingly open to terms they wouldn't have considered a year ago—including inspection contingencies and repair credits.

• The "Value-Add" Pivot: Don't just look at turn-key properties. Because construction timelines and permitting costs scare off casual buyers, homes with cosmetic upside are sitting longer. This is where a partnership with a design-and-build minded team allows you to see the hidden equity potential others miss.

The Seller’s Playbook: Precision Pricing and Flawless Presentation

Sellers are still getting excellent prices for their homes, but the market is no longer forgiving of a "let's see what happens" approach. Buyers are highly selective and data-informed.

• Avoid the "Aspirational Premium": Pricing your home slightly above the actual market data to "leave room for negotiation" will backfire. In a 45-day market, an overpriced home quickly becomes stagnant water. Price your home right at the data-backed sweet spot to spark immediate, competitive interest while your listing is fresh.

• The Turn-Key Imperative: Modern luxury buyers on the Westside are willing to pay an immense premium to skip the headache of renovations. Investing in strategic pre-market updates, professional staging, and resolving minor structural issues before hitting the MLS is the difference between a seamless escrow and a stale listing.

• Address the Hidden Deal-Killers Early: In 2026, home insurance and HOA structural reserves have become major hurdles in California escrows. Smart sellers are getting ahead of the curve by securing preliminary insurance quotes for their properties and having clear, transparent HOA health reports ready for prospective buyers on day one.

The Campbell Wellman Take

A balanced market is actually our favorite kind of market to work in. When the frenzy stops, real estate becomes about pure strategy, deep local data, and creative problem-solving. Sellers who present a flawless product are still winning big, and buyers who look past the public listing sheets are finding incredible long-term value. It’s all about knowing how to play the board.

Coast-to-Coast: The Santa Monica Pier’s Historic Route 66 "Pier to Pier" Celebration

If you're looking for a great excuse to catch some morning ocean air this weekend, the Santa Monica Pier is hosting a pretty cool, coast-to-coast event this Saturday that you won’t want to miss.

To honor the upcoming Centennial anniversary of America's most legendary highway, the Santa Monica Pier is teaming up with Chicago’s Navy Pier for a historic Route 66 "Pier to Pier" celebration. And because the calendar happens to line up perfectly as June 6, 2026 (6/6/26), they are leaning all the way into the numbers.

The Main Event: 66 Minutes of Free Ferris Wheel Rides

The big draw? Both iconic landmarks are offering free rides for exactly 66 minutes on their world-famous Ferris wheels.

From 10:00 AM to 11:06 AM local time this Saturday, you can score a complimentary ride on Pacific Park’s famous solar-powered Pacific Wheel. It’s a nod to the historic connection between Chicago (which was recently dedicated as the new symbolic eastern starting point of Historic Route 66) and Santa Monica, our home to the legendary western terminus and "End of the Trail" sign.

🎟️ How to score the free ride: You just need to RSVP ahead of time at pacpark.com/route-66-day. Quantities are limited and available first-come, first-served, so definitely lock it in before Saturday morning if you want to hop on. If you ride during that 66-minute window, you can also grab a souvenir ride photo for just $6.

Vintage Roller Coasters & Photo Ops

If you haven't strolled the pier in a while, Saturday is the perfect time to play tourist in your own backyard.

• The Route 66 West Coaster: Pacific Park (which just celebrated its 30th anniversary last week!) has a roller coaster decked out with vintage gas pumps and license plates in the loading zone, with ride cars inspired by classic American touring cars.

• The Terminus: You can swing by the nostalgic “End of the Trail” sign or hit the two dedicated Route 66 photo spots to grab a quick shot before the afternoon crowds roll in.

The Campbell Wellman Take

We always love when our local landmarks celebrate their place in history. The Santa Monica Pier is such a massive part of the Westside identity, and connecting it coast-to-coast with Chicago's Navy Pier is a really unique way to kick off the summer season. If you're out strolling Santa Monica, checking out real estate, or grabbing a beachy lunch this Saturday, it's worth swinging by the boardwalk to catch the energy.