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Cultural : Catalina Express

Cultural

The outside of the famous Casino

Discover the history of Catalina Island that has inspired artists and musicians for many years. From the art-deco architecture, the colorful tile murals and many galleries, art and culture is truly around every corner

The inside of the Bistro at the Atwater.
The Avalon Theatre inside of the famous Casino.
Food plate from Buffalo Nickel.

Morning

Begin your Catalina Island experience with morning breakfast from the Bistro at the Atwater. Walk down Avalon’s waterfront with your cup of coffee and pastry while spotting unique Catalina tilework. 

Afternoon

Visit the iconic Catalina Casino for a tour of the Avalon Theatre, an art deco masterpiece. The Avalon Theater is one of the first movie houses to be built for “talkies”. Admire the murals that were hand-painted and designed by John Gabriel Beckman while learning about the history from a knowledgeable tour guide.

Craving a traditional, tasty meal? Take a taxi to Buffalo Nickel for a selection of different cuisines. This local spot puts a modern twist to their classic American menu. From buffalo burgers to fresh seafood, there’s a meal for everyone.

History exhibit at the Catalina Museum for Art & History.
Food plate from Maggie's Blue Rose.

Evening

Explore art and history exhibitions at the Catalina Museum for Art & History. Observe the ways in which the Island has inspired so many people in different forms of creativity. The history will bring you back in time to learn all about Catalina Island.

For dinner, feast on high quality Mexican food at Maggie’s Blue Rose with a view of Avalon bay. Start off with their Street Corn on the Cob, then end with Maggie’s Chile Relleno. You can’t forget to try the Blue Rose margarita, their signature cocktail.

Stay

Formally known as the home of the Wrigley family, Mt. Ada will make you feel cozy with its comforting ambiance. Mt. Ada has a magnificent view of Avalon bay from their large outdoor terrace where you can sit and relax or enjoy a meal. Stay overnight on the hillside of Avalon at the historically modernized Zane Grey Hotel. Originally built in 1926 by Zane Grey, renowned novelist, as his vacation home then newly remodeled in 2019.

Travel Tips

If you decide to make it an overnight trip, look into one of our many Boat and Hotel Packages. Many include cultural activities such as tickets to the Catalina Island Museum or continental breakfast. 

The inside of the Bistro at the Atwater.

1

Bistro at the Atwater

119 Sumner Ave.

310.510.7414

VisitCatalinaIsland.com

The inside of the Avalon Theatre

2

Avalon Theatre

1 Casino Way 

877.778.8322

VisitCatalinaIsland.comTheAvalonTheatre.com 

Food plate from Buffalo Nickel.

3

Buffalo Nickel

57 Pebbly Beach Rd.

310.510.1323

BuffaloNickelRestaurants.com

The front entrance of the Catalina Museum for Art & History.

4

Catalina Museum for Art & History 

217 Metropole Ave. 

310.510.2414

CatalinaMuseum.org

Food plate from Maggie's Blue Rose.

5

Maggie’s Blue Rose

417 Crescent Ave.

310.510.3300

MaggiesBlueRose.com

The patio view at Mt. Ada Hotel

6

Mt. Ada 

398 Wrigley Terrace Rd. 

877.778.8415

VisitCatalinaIsland.com 

A room at Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel

7

Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel 

199 Chimes Tower Rd. 

310.510.0996

ZaneGreyHotel.com

A map of the culture itinerary

For a printable PDF of the Culture Seeker itinerary, please click here

Daily Boat Trips To Catalina Island

Discover paradise on Catalina Island with daily ferry trips to and from the island. More than one million travelers choose Catalina Island as their getaway each year and Catalina Express' large fleet of boats make the trip in about an hour, operating every day, year round from three mainland ports - Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point.

Escape To Catalina Island

Leave the hustle and bustle of the "mainland" behind. Catalina Island is the perfect place to take a break from the demands of daily life. With so many activities to choose from, your visit to Catalina Island can be adventure-packed or filled with rest and relaxation. With its year round Mediterranean climate, it's the ideal place to enjoy ocean air and sunshine.