Bergamot Station Arts Center is a campus of contemporary art galleries and studios at 2525 Michigan Ave in Santa Monica. Its industrial buildings, once part of a railway site, now hold changing exhibitions across painting, sculpture, photography and mixed media. Admission and parking are free, so you can browse at your own pace and dip into the galleries that interest you. Download the site map before exploring; there is also a café on the grounds for a break between visits.
A railway site turned arts complex
Bergamot Station’s buildings have served several purposes. From 1875 to 1953, the site was a station for the Los Angeles and Independence Railroad and later the Santa Monica Airline. After trolley service ended, the buildings were used for celery packing, ice production and water-heater manufacturing.
The City of Santa Monica transformed the property into an arts venue in 1994. The former industrial setting remains part of the experience: galleries and exhibition spaces occupy a group of warehouse-style buildings, bringing contemporary art into a place shaped by transport and manufacturing.
What to see inside
The complex brings together galleries, studios and exhibition spaces. Displays change, and the range of work can include paintings, sculpture, photography and mixed media. Individual galleries have their own programs, so the selection you find depends on what is showing during your visit.
Allow time to wander between spaces rather than treating the center as a single exhibition. The galleries are independently arranged, and you can choose which ones to enter. Some spaces may require an appointment, so check with a gallery if you have a particular exhibition in mind. The center’s website is also the place to check for current exhibitions, events and programs.
Planning your visit
The center is at 2525 Michigan Ave in Santa Monica. It sits beside the train station, and free parking is available on site as well as on the street. Admission to the galleries is free.
The number of open galleries can differ from one visit to another. Use the on-site barcode to download a map and check the current gallery schedule before you go. An early start gives you more time to explore several spaces; a café on the grounds provides a place to pause. The center is wheelchair accessible, including its entrance, restrooms and parking.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Bergamot Station Arts Center free to visit?
Yes. Admission to the galleries is free, and parking is also free.
How long should I spend at Bergamot Station Arts Center?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to browse several galleries at a relaxed pace.
How do I find the galleries?
Download the map by scanning the barcode on site. The complex includes multiple galleries and exhibition spaces.
Can I get there by train?
Yes. The galleries are adjacent to the train station.
