If you are exploring Santa Monica, visit Edgemar at 2415–2449 Main Street to experience a unique blend of coastal history, commerce, and striking architecture. Designed by celebrated architect Frank Gehry and envisioned by developer Abby Sher, this 50,000-square-foot mixed-use complex channels the feel of a Tuscan hill town piazza. Gehry thoughtfully transformed an early 20th-century ice warehouse and a 1940s Art Deco office building using signature industrial materials like galvanized metal, chain link, concrete, and stucco.
As you wander through the complex, you will discover a lively central courtyard outfitted with the Edgemar Fountain, distinctive umbrellas, and a dynamic wind sculpture. You can grab coffee or ice cream, browse retail shops, or catch a performance at the Edgemar Center for the Arts. When parking underground, be sure to listen closely for "LISTEN EDGEMAR," a permanent ceiling-speaker sound installation that blends localized audio and musical improvisations synchronized with the Santa Monica tides.
Depending on the season, you might also enjoy courtyard concerts during Summer Soulstice or admire the iconic, hand-built shopping cart holiday tree erected every late November. It is a wonderfully eclectic stop along Main Street.
What to see at Edgemar
- Frank Gehry architecture combining historic warehouses with Art Deco design
- Central courtyard featuring the Edgemar Fountain, umbrellas, and a wind sculpture
- LISTEN EDGEMAR, an tide-synchronized audio installation in the subterranean parking garage
- Culture and retail options including the Edgemar Center for the Arts
- Annual holiday festival display featuring a hand-assembled shopping cart tree
Visiting tips
Listen closely when using the subterranean parking garage to hear LISTEN EDGEMAR, a permanent musical sound installation tuned to the ocean tides.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Late morning or early afternoon
How to get there & what’s nearby
Edgemar is easy to reach on Santa Monica’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Santa Monica travel guide.
See the full Santa Monica travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.