Trip Planner: USA / California / Santa Monica / Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura, Santa Monica

3.5

#6 of 7 in Museums in Santa Monica

Observatory · Hidden Gem · Science Museum

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Camera Obscura reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

11 reviews

Google

4.7

By Lenise B

I was so looking forward to visiting this. However, the doorways were full of homeless people, so I absolutely did not feel safe entering the building.

I was so looking forward to visiting this. However, the doorways were full of homeless people, so I absolutely did not feel safe entering the building. more »
By CleopatraBunny

The free camera obscura is located on the second floor of the senior center along Palisades Park in Santa Monica. Ask the person at reception where to go - she will give you a two-page handout on the.... more

The free camera obscura is located on the second floor of the senior center along Palisades Park in Santa Monica. Ask the person at reception where to go - she will give you a two-page handout on the.... more »
By ajdial

This periscope hidden in the middle of the hustle of Santa Monica is like a piece of another time. It’s fun to check out the surrounding beach and people watch.

This periscope hidden in the middle of the hustle of Santa Monica is like a piece of another time. It’s fun to check out the surrounding beach and people watch. more »

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Google

By Mor Ghermezi

First of all, it's free, so there's no reason not to check it out. But it's also really cool and you can turn the viewfinder and the table to get different views and play with the focus.

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By Daniel Larsh

It's a phenomenal piece of history. If you have young kids, or if you're a photo enthusiast, or if you're one of the homeless people in the nearby Palisades Park.. I think everyone can find appreciation in Camera Obscura, and the community arts center. Phenomenal piece of history. Don't be afraid to walk in! The camera obscura is upstairs!

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By Vincenzo Sclafani

It's a really cool place that gives you the idea of how a camera lense works. You need to close the door, steer the wheel and adjust the table top and it's so cool I actually thought It was some sort of magic trick but it reflects what happens on the outside, people and moving car or moving palms included. Free and a cool one to do

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By Diana Pascual

Super cool spot. Highly recommend. Expect to spend 10-15 minutes in the actually room.

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By Melanie Galuten

This place built in 1899 is so cool I can't even believe it! You don't need a very long time to see it. My 13-year-old and his friend just loved it. They couldn't believe what they were saying was in real time.

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