3-Day Arts & Culture Itinerary

Catalina Island's story runs deeper than its beaches. Avalon's streets are lined with Art Deco landmarks, working artist studios, and a history that stretches from the island's original inhabitants through the glamour of the Wrigley era. This three-day itinerary threads together the island's museums, galleries, historic sites, and a few after-dark surprises, giving you a fuller picture of Catalina's creative and cultural side between hikes to the beach.

Day 1: Introduction to Avalon's History & Scenic Beauty

Morning

• Embark on a Scenic Avalon Tour or Avalon History Tour aboard Gary the Garibaldi, Avalon's bright orange electric trolley named after California's state fish, for a photogenic ride through the Island's captivating history, from its indigenous roots to its glamorous Hollywood era, past its renowned landmarks and iconic architectural gems.
• Shop for Catalina Tiles – Visit stores like Catalina Pottery & Tile Co. in the Shopping & Retail district to find authentic and reproduction Catalina tiles.

Afternoon

• Catalina Museum for Art & History – Explore exhibits on Catalina's history, including early inhabitants, Hollywood connections, and local artists. Special exhibitions rotate throughout the year, so there's always something new on view.
• Avalon Diving History Exhibit – Located in the Casino Building, this hidden gem showcases Catalina's role in the evolution of diving.

Evening

• Haunted Catalina Ghost Tour – Walk through Avalon's historic sites while hearing eerie tales of Catalina's past.

Day 2: Art, Nature & Iconic Landmarks

Morning

• Art Gallery Visit – Visit the Catalina Art Association Gallery, showcasing the work of local artists and island-themed works.
• Gallery & Boutique Stroll – Continue your art crawl through Avalon's independent galleries and jewelry shops: browse hand-crafted marine-inspired art, apparel and jewelry at Afishinados Gallery, sterling jewelry and ethnic art at Bay of the Seven Moons (named for the native islanders' original moniker for Avalon), and one-of-a-kind jewelry, art tile and blown glass at Two's Company.

Afternoon

• Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden – Walk through native plant gardens and visit the grand memorial honoring William Wrigley Jr.
• VIP Behind-the-Scenes Casino Tour – Gain exclusive access to the historic Catalina Casino, including the Avalon Theatre, ballroom, and secret areas.

Evening

• Haunting Tales & Mysterious Melodies – Step inside the Catalina Casino after dark for a guided tour that blends the building's haunted lore with live music, a fitting nightcap for an arts-and-culture day. (Weekend nights; check schedule.)

Day 3: Exploring Catalina's Interior & Hidden Gems

Morning

• Catalina Island Conservancy Eco Tour – Guided eco-tour showcasing Catalina's preserved landscapes.

Afternoon

• Catalina Food Tours – Enjoy bites, desserts and beverages as the guides provide insight into the food and local history.
• Leisurely Shopping & Final Exploration – Pick up more unique Catalina souvenirs, visit the pier, or relax on the beach.

Time It Right
If your dates allow, plan around one of the Catalina Art Association's signature events: the Catalina Spring Arts & Crafts Festival on Mother's Day weekend, or the Catalina Festival of Art each September. Both fill Crescent Avenue with booths from local and regional artists and pair naturally with this itinerary's gallery-hopping morning.