ONLINE – Santa Monica History Museum
Step Back in Time: Santa Monica’s Broadway Comes Alive with Augmented Reality! Imagine strolling down a bustling street, not as it is today, but as it was decades ago. The air hums with the chatter of a vibrant community, storefronts beckon with forgotten wares, and laughter spills from open windows. This isn’t a scene from a history book, it’s your reality thanks to the Santa Monica History Museum’s groundbreaking Broadway Augmented Reality Walking Tour!
A Journey Through a Lost Community
Santa Monica’s Broadway neighborhood, once a thriving hub for African American, Mexican American, and immigrant communities, was tragically fractured by the construction of the 10 Freeway in the 1960s. Now, the Santa Monica History Museum, in partnership with Snapchat, is using cutting-edge AR technology to bring this lost community back to life.
Unveiling the Past, One Digital Layer at a Time
As you embark on this immersive tour, your smartphone becomes a portal to the past. Point your camera at specific locations along Broadway between 20th and 17th streets, and watch as historical data, photos, and even audio recordings come to life right before your eyes. Witness the bustling shops, hear the music spilling from jukeboxes, and feel the warmth of a community that defied segregation and discrimination.
More Than Just a Tour, an Experience
This AR tour isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing history firsthand. You’ll step into the shoes of the residents, feel their struggles and triumphs, and gain a deeper understanding of the complex history of Santa Monica. It’s a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
Ready to Take the Plunge? Here’s How
- Download the Snapchat app.
- Head to the Santa Monica History Museum website (https://santamonicahistory.org/exhibitions/broadway-to-freeway-ar-tour/) and scan the QR code.
- Grab your smartphone and hit the streets! Follow the map and point your camera at designated locations to unlock the AR experience.
So lace up your walking shoes, charge your phone, and get ready for a journey unlike any other. The Santa Monica History Museum’s Broadway Augmented Reality Walking Tour awaits, promising to transport you to a time when community thrived and history unfolded on every corner.
For additional information, visit the website @
santamonicahistory.org/exhibitions
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