On the northwest point of Avalon Bay (looking to your right from Green Pleasure Pier) is the majestic landmark Casino. This circular white structure is considered one of the finest examples of art deco architecture anywhere. Its Spanish-inspired floors and murals gleam with brilliant blue and green Catalina tiles. "Casino" is the Italian word for "gathering place" and in this case has nothing to do with gambling. Rather, Casino life revolves around the magnificent ballroom: the same big-band dances that made the Casino famous in the 1930s and '40s still take place on holiday weekends. The New Year's Eve dance (PHONE: 310/510-1520) is hugely popular and sells out well in advance. Santa Catalina Island Company leads tours of the Casino, lasting about 55 minutes, for $9. You can also visit the Catalina Island Museum, in the lower level of the Casino, which investigates 7,000 years of island history; or stop at the Casino Art Gallery to see works by local artists. First-run movies are screened on weekends at the Avalon Theatre, noteworthy for its classic 1929 theater pipe organ. COST: Museum $2.50, art gallery free.