The famed Santa Monica Pier, one of southern California’s most recognizable landmarks, is set to turn 100 years old in just a few short months. Celebrate by revisiting one of America’s most treasured stretches of wood and water.

Opened to the public in 1909, Santa Monica Pier was originally constructed, ironically enough, to carry sewer pipes beyond the breakers and was more of a magnet for fishermen than families. Over the years, the land was purchased and developed by entrepreneurs and the Santa Monica Amusement Company, who helped transform a simple pier into one of California’s most enduring images and the bustling center of activity that stands today.

Though the pier has survived a few close calls through the last century, its immense popularity has led to the rapid expansion and development of Pacific Park, the massive amusement park the locals all know and the tourists will immediately recognize from the movies.

Step under the legendary sign and past the Ferris wheel because beyond the churro cart, the bike rental shop and the novelty stores, there are a few great sights you simply can’t miss (log onto www.santamonicapier.org for complete details).

The Carousel

For less than a dollar, take a ride on one of the pier’s oldest and most beloved landmarks, the famed carousel. Built in 1916 and faithfully restored nearly 80 years later, the merry-go-round is one of the few surviving wooden carousels in existence, placing it proudly in the National Directory of Historic Places. Take a ride or plan a get-together, but be sure to see this treasure.

Playland Arcade

Looking for a little more modern entertainment? From Pinball to Dance Dance Revolution, kids to adults, the Playland Arcade has something for everyone. With over 200 games, you can be playing skeeball or skiing in the Olympics in the span of five minutes.

The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Just below the carousel, the Aquarium offers visitors a glimpse of the incredible ocean life just beyond the pier. With interactive displays, up-close-and-personal touch tanks and a massive 2,200-gallon pier tank teeming with life, the Aquarium is rightly one of the pier’s most impressive and popular attractions.

Trapeze School

Yes, you read that correctly. Learn the death-defying art of trapeze swinging from the experts at the Trapeze School of New York. With everything from classes to corporate events, you won’t want to miss this circus.

After 100 years, the Santa Monica Pier is as beautiful and spectacular as ever. Whether you’re a local, a tourist, an angler or an actor, you’ll undoubtedly find something to love at one of California’s most unforgettable landmarks.