LA and Santa Monica: Self-Guided Aerospace Legacy Audio Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on SpaceQuest for an unparalleled exploration of Los Angeles' aerospace heritage, juxtaposed with its iconic landscapes. This tour goes beyond mere sightseeing, offering an educational odyssey through the realms of aviation history and space exploration. From the pioneering efforts at Santa Monica Airport Museum to the groundbreaking achievements of SpaceX, SpaceQuest weaves a narrative of human ambition and technological prowess. Immerse yourself in the tales of aerospace legends, marvel at technological feats, and experience the scenic beauty of L.A.'s most iconic spots. Join us on SpaceQuest, where history meets the future and every stop inspires awe and wonder, making it the ultimate journey for those who dream of the stars.
Available options
LA and Santa Monica: Self-Guided Aerospace Legacy Audio Tour
What's included
GPS-Enabled Navigation: Easy-to-follow route with GPS guidance.
Multilingual Support: Available in different languages (coming soon).
Pause and Resume Feature: Control the pace of your tour with easy pausing and resuming.
Flexible Start Points: Freedom to start the tour at multiple locations.
Professional Voice Narration: High-quality storytelling by professional voice actors.
Exclusive Insider Knowledge: Unique insights and stories about Hollywood
Offline Tour Download: Access & explore without internet.
Access to the Full 2-Hour Audio Tour: Comprehensive guided exploration of Modesto
Detailed itinerary
1
Embark on a journey through aviation history at the Santa Monica Airport Museum. Discover a treasure trove of aircraft and stories that trace the evolution of flight. Perfect for families and aviation buffs alike.
2
Relax in the serene ambiance of Clover Park, where the sky meets creativity. Ideal for picnics and plane spotting, it's a peaceful retreat amidst the buzz of Santa Monica.
3
Explore the intellectual legacy of RAND Corporation, where groundbreaking research meets national defense and space exploration. A thought-provoking stop for history and tech enthusiasts.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Experience the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where fun meets the ocean. Enjoy timeless entertainment, stunning views, and a slice of California's beach culture.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Dive into the vibrant spirit of Venice Beach. A haven for surfers, skaters, and artists, it's where L.A.'s bohemian heart beats the loudest.
6
Witness the evolution from aviation history to tech innovation at Playa Vista, once home to Howard Hughes' empire. A fascinating blend for tech and history lovers.
7
Step into history at the Spruce Goose Hangar, now a beacon of innovation with Google. Where aviation's past meets the future of tech.
8
Discover where technology shapes the future at USC Institute of Creative Technologies. A must-visit for enthusiasts of cutting-edge tech and virtual realities.
9
Unwind at Dockweiler Beach, with its unique backdrop of LAX's flight paths. Perfect for aviation enthusiasts and beachgoers seeking a serene escape.
10
Get up close with the future of space exploration at SpaceX Headquarters. Witness the Falcon 9 and feel the pulse of innovation propelling us to the stars.
What's not included
No transportation/pickup; it's a self-guided GPS tour.
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
After booking, you'll receive a confirmation email from Viator and a separate email from Wayfarer with tour instructions and redemption details. For any questions or assistance, contact us
Meeting point
Please note, this is a virtual starting point for your self-guided audio tour—no physical meet-up required. Simply download the tour and start whenever you're ready, right from your phone. Discover the sights and stories at your own pace.
Important notes
You will receive an order confirmation with a link to download or open the wayfarer (iOS & Android app from your mobile device. You will be prompted to create your FREE Wayfarer account. Once your account is created, you're purchase will be automatically available in the app. Already a Wayfarer? Just login or reset your password. When you’re ready to go, tap on Start Tour. The app will give you directions to the starting location. If you’re a long ways from the starting location, you recommend waiting to hit start until you’re a few miles away.
If you have any questions about the SpaceQuest tour or need help purchasing the tour, just email us at support@wayfarerjourney.com
About Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a vibrant beachfront city in Southern California, known for its iconic pier, stunning ocean views, and laid-back atmosphere. It offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a lively entertainment scene.
Top Attractions
Santa Monica Pier
The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, restaurants, and shops. It offers stunning ocean views and a variety of entertainment options.
Beach/Entertainment
2-4 hours
Free entry, paid attractions
Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, and beach sports. The wide, sandy beach offers plenty of space for relaxation and activities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Third Street Promenade
A pedestrian-only shopping and dining district featuring a variety of stores, restaurants, street performers, and entertainment. It's a great place to stroll and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Shopping/Dining
1-3 hours
Free to explore, varies by purchases
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
A vast natural area offering hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park features scenic trails, wildlife, and stunning views of the coastline.
Nature/Outdoor
Half day to full day
Free or small entrance fees for some areas
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish Tacos
Grilled or fried fish served in corn tortillas with fresh salsa, avocado, and lime. A popular beachside dish in Santa Monica.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various types of fish, gluten-free options available.
Ahi Poke
Fresh raw ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free options available, ensure freshness when ordering.
Popular Activities
Surfing
Hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains
Beach volleyball
Sunbathing at Santa Monica Beach
Yoga on the beach
Spa treatments
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending concerts and performances
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the summer peak. Ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
18-25°C
64-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time, PST)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santa Monica is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) • 13 km (8 miles)
By train
Santa Monica Station
By bus
Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Metro Local
Getting around
Public transport
The Big Blue Bus system is reliable, affordable, and covers most of the city. Fares are reasonable, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Santa Monica
Ocean Park
Montana Avenue
Day trips
Venice Beach
5 km (3 miles) • Half day
Venice Beach is known for its vibrant boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic shops. It offers a unique and colorful experience with a mix of beach activities and cultural attractions.
Malibu
25 km (15 miles) • Full day
Malibu is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, scenic drives, and celebrity homes. It offers a mix of relaxation, outdoor activities, and sightseeing.
Hollywood
20 km (12 miles) • Full day
Hollywood is a world-famous destination known for its iconic landmarks, entertainment industry, and celebrity culture. It offers a mix of sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment.
Festivals
Twilight Concert Series • Summer (June - August)
Santa Monica Pier's Annual Events • Various dates throughout the year
Pro tips
- Visit the Santa Monica Pier early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
- Use the Big Blue Bus or Expo Line for convenient and affordable public transportation within the city.
- Explore the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.
- Check the schedule for free concerts and events at the Santa Monica Pier and other local venues.
- Support local businesses and buy locally made products to experience the unique flavors and culture of Santa Monica.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
