Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008
Pacific Park, Los Angeles
Carny rides have been a part of the landscape of the Santa Monica beach since 1916, when carousel manufacturer Charles Looff bought land next to the municipal pier, built his own pier and began erecting roller coasters and other thrill rides. Pacific Park fell into disrepair in the 1970s, but city residents banded together to rescue it and the amusement park was reopened in 1996.