The 30 Best Educational exhibits in California

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a world-renowned institution located at 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, California, United States. This unique institution combines an art gallery, museum, park, and tourist attraction all in one. The Huntington Library is one of the world's great research libraries, housing over 12 million items spanning centuries. The Library exhibition halls display a wide range of works, including British, European, American, and Asian art. The collection includes decorative arts, paintings, prints, drawings, photography, and sculpture, with over 45,000 world-renowned examples.

Studios on the Park is a nonprofit open studios art center located in the heart of historic downtown Paso Robles, California. With six studios housing 15 working artists, four galleries, and a fine craft and fine art gift store, this institution is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and tourists alike. Witness the creative process in action, enroll in a class or workshop, view quality themed exhibitions, or volunteer your time to help bring art to the community. Donations and volunteers are crucial for Studios on the Park to continue providing a space for artistic exploration and education. The institution also offers engaging and interactive activities for young people, making it a perfect destination for families and children. Visit Studios on the Park and make art a part of your life today!

Central Coast Aquarium is a captivating institution located at 50 San Juan Street in Avila Beach, California. As both an aquarium and museum, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diverse marine life and ecosystems found along the Central Coast of California. From colorful fish and mesmerizing jellyfish to interactive exhibits and educational programs, the Central Coast Aquarium provides a fun and informative experience for visitors of all ages. Come discover the wonders of the ocean at this must-visit destination in Avila Beach.

The Morro Bay Maritime Museum is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 1210 Embarcadero in Morro Bay, California, United States. This museum offers a unique experience for visitors to explore the rich maritime history of the area through engaging exhibits and events. The museum is open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 3 pm, with additional hours available by appointment on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Visitors can enjoy free audio tours and explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits that showcase the fascinating maritime heritage of Morro Bay.

The Skirball Cultural Center is a renowned museum and tourist attraction located at 2701 North Sepulveda Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. This institution is dedicated to exploring Jewish heritage and American democratic ideals through engaging exhibitions, cultural programs, and educational initiatives. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits that showcase art, history, and traditions, as well as participate in various events and activities that promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures. With its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, the Skirball Cultural Center offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is a serene oasis located at 3450 Dairy Creek Road in San Luis Obispo, California. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse collection of plants and flowers from around the world. With winding paths, peaceful ponds, and stunning views, the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature. Whether you're a botany enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this garden is sure to delight and inspire.

The Charles Paddock Zoo, located at 9100 Morro Road in Atascadero, California, is a delightful mix of amusement park, tourist attraction, and zoo all rolled into one. Home to over 100 different species of animals, including exotic and endangered species, the zoo offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of the world's most fascinating creatures. Perfect for a fun day out with the family, the Charles Paddock Zoo also features educational programs, special events, and interactive exhibits that are sure to entertain and educate visitors of all ages. Come explore the wonders of the animal kingdom at the Charles Paddock Zoo!

Lake Park/Charles Paddock Zoo is a charming institution located in Atascadero, California, United States. This park features a beautiful lake where visitors can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. The park is also home to the Charles Paddock Zoo, where guests can observe a variety of exotic animals up close. With lush greenery, picnic areas, and educational exhibits, Lake Park/Charles Paddock Zoo is the perfect destination for a fun and educational day out with family and friends.

Located at 867 Ramona Avenue in Grover Beach, California, the Exploration Discovery Center is a museum dedicated to children's education and play with an emphasis on sustainability. The institution is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization formed through a merger with the Children’s Discovery Center of the Central Coast and the former Exploration Station. After the original Exploration Station closed in 2016, the campus has been revamped with new exhibits and exciting activities for visitors of all ages. The center offers a variety of hands-on experiences and exhibitions to inspire creativity and educate the youth of the central coast.

The San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum is a popular tourist attraction located at 1940 Santa Barbara Avenue in San Luis Obispo, California, United States. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad industry in the region, showcasing a variety of exhibits and artifacts that highlight the impact of trains on the local community. Visitors can explore vintage train cars, learn about the evolution of rail transportation, and even take a ride on a historic locomotive. With its engaging displays and interactive activities, the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past for visitors of all ages.

The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum is a popular tourist attraction located at 705 South McClelland Street in Santa Maria, California. This interactive museum offers a hands-on learning experience for visitors of all ages, with exhibits and activities focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. From exploring the wonders of the natural world to conducting fun experiments, the museum provides a unique and educational experience for families and individuals alike. Come discover, learn, and play at the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum!

The Santa Maria Museum of Flight is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 3015 Airpark Drive in Santa Maria, California, United States. This fascinating museum showcases a rich collection of aircrafts, aviation artifacts, and interactive exhibits that highlight the history and evolution of flight. Visitors can explore exhibits on different eras of aviation, learn about famous pilots and their groundbreaking achievements, and even climb aboard some of the historic planes on display. Whether you're a seasoned aviation enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience, the Santa Maria Museum of Flight offers something for everyone to enjoy.

The Lompoc Museum, located at 200 South H Street in Lompoc, California, is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. With a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays, visitors can learn about the area's Native American heritage, early settlers, agriculture, and military history. The museum also hosts special events, educational programs, and guided tours for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to explore something new, the Lompoc Museum is a must-visit destination in the heart of California's Central Coast.

The New Children’s Museum, located at 200 West Island Avenue in San Diego, California, is a popular tourist attraction and museum that offers interactive art installations and hands-on art programming for children and families. Open every day from 9am to 4pm (closed on Tuesdays), the museum features constantly changing exhibits created by artists to provide new and exciting experiences for visitors. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online, and masks are recommended for visitors ages 2 and up. As a nonprofit institution, the museum relies on admissions, memberships, and community support to fund its daily operations. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum's website for up-to-date operating hours, events, and programming. Please note that some exhibit spaces may be closed due to weather conditions for safety reasons. Join us in supporting the museum and helping more children think, play, and create!

The California Nature Art Museum, located at 1511-B Mission Drive in Solvang, California, offers a unique perspective on the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Featuring artwork by renowned artists such as Larry Iwerks, the museum serves as a hub for artistic, educational, and field experiences related to nature. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the beauty of the Santa Ynez Buttes and other natural landscapes, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the environment. In addition to its exhibits, the California Nature Art Museum also functions as a store and tourist attraction, attracting visitors of all ages. The museum is open from Monday to Sunday, with varying hours of operation, allowing guests to explore at their convenience. The institution relies on contributions from supporters to provide quality programs and exhibitions that benefit the community.

The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum and Parks-Janeway Carriage House is a must-visit attraction located at 3596 Sagunto Street in Santa Ynez, California. This museum showcases the rich history of the Santa Ynez Valley through its diverse collections and exhibits. One of the main highlights of the museum is the Parks-Janeway Carriage House, which houses the largest horse-drawn vehicle collection west of the Mississippi. Visitors can browse through the various collections, explore the latest exhibits, and learn about the fascinating history of the region. The museum also offers opportunities for locals to volunteer as docents, sharing their knowledge and passion for western history and culture with visitors.

Rancho La Patera & Stow House c.1873 is a historic museum located at 304 North Los Carneros Road in Goleta, California, United States. The institution showcases the rich history and culture of the region, with a particular focus on the original 19th-century ranching lifestyle. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved Stow House, which was built in 1873, and learn about the families who lived there. The museum offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events to provide a unique and immersive experience for all ages.

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration Innovation is a dynamic museum located at 125 State Street in Santa Barbara, California. Our mission is to ignite learning through interactive experiences in science and creativity. The museum offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Adults (13 ) can enjoy the exhibits for $20, while children (3-12) can explore for $15. Children 2 and under are admitted for free. The museum is open to all, and visitors can immerse themselves in hands-on exhibits designed in partnership with award-winning organizations. Get ready to discover, play, and engage in a new way at MOXI.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a popular tourist attraction located at 2559 Puesta Del Sol in Santa Barbara, California. This museum offers a fascinating look into the natural history of the region, featuring exhibits on local flora and fauna, geology, and anthropology. Visitors can explore interactive displays, dioramas, and hands-on activities that showcase the rich biodiversity of Santa Barbara and its surrounding areas. The museum also offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events for visitors of all ages. With its beautiful location and engaging exhibits, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and curious minds alike.

Mission Historical Park, located on East Los Olivos Street in Santa Barbara, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for history and nature enthusiasts alike. This park is home to various ruins from Mission Santa Barbara's past, including the old reservoir, aqueduct, tannery vats, filter house, grist mill, and pottery. However, the highlight of the park is the A. C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden, also known as the "Mission Rose Garden." With over 1,500 rose bushes and expansive grassy areas, this garden is a popular spot for picnics and special events. Visitors can also participate in the annual Rose Pruning Day held in January, where volunteers come together to prepare the garden for new spring growth. Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, Mission Historical Park offers a unique and educational experience for all.

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, located at 113 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction and museum. Offering the best views in Santa Barbara, this institution is free to visit seven days a week. Explore two floors of historical and maritime art exhibits, take guided virtual museum tours with the Executive Director, and download a printable map of the museum in PDF format. The Maritime Museum is available for private and corporate events, and visitors can join the Navigators Circle to support the museum. Celebrate the deep sea pioneers of Santa Barbara and their contributions to commercial diving by donating or becoming a member of the museum. The institution is known as the birthplace of deepwater commercial diving and offers education, information, and lectures on the Santa Barbara Channel, Channel Islands National Park, and human interaction with the sea over 13,000 years.

The Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction located at 5669 Carpinteria Avenue in Carpinteria, California, United States. This sanctuary is dedicated to protecting and preserving the local seal population, offering visitors the opportunity to observe these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat. With educational exhibits, guided tours, and a commitment to conservation, the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary provides a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. Don't miss the chance to visit this special institution and learn more about these incredible creatures.

The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park, located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, California, is a popular tourist attraction and travel agency. The center features a bookstore, displays of marine aquatic life, and exhibits showcasing the unique characteristics of each park island. Visitors can also enjoy the 25-minute park movie, “A Treasure in the Sea,” shown throughout the day in the auditorium (closed-caption film available upon request). The fully accessible visitor center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm, with closures on Thanksgiving and December 25th. On weekends and holidays, rangers offer free public programs at 11 am and 3 pm, providing insights into the resources of the park. The center also hosts various events and programs, which can be found on their website.

The Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center is a versatile venue located at 10 West Harbor Boulevard in Ventura, California. This expansive facility hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including the annual Ventura County Fair, concerts, trade shows, festivals, and more. With multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, the fairgrounds can accommodate events of all sizes and types. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities such as on-site parking, food vendors, and restrooms. Whether you're looking to attend a family-friendly fair or host a corporate event, the Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center is the perfect destination for all your entertainment and event needs.

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum, located at 3900 Bluefin Circle in Oxnard, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for maritime enthusiasts. This museum showcases the rich maritime history of the Channel Islands and surrounding areas through a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the region's seafaring past, including the exploration of the Channel Islands, maritime trade, and naval history. The museum also offers educational programs, events, and workshops for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the sea, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum is a fascinating destination to explore.

The US Navy Seabee Museum, located at 3201 North Ventura Road in Port Hueneme, California, is a must-visit destination for history buffs, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the rich heritage of the United States Navy's construction battalions. As both a museum and a store, the institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the heroic achievements of the Seabees throughout history. From World War II to present-day operations, the museum provides an in-depth look at the invaluable contributions of these skilled builders and fighters. With its engaging displays, informative tours, and unique merchandise, the US Navy Seabee Museum is a top tourist attraction that honors the legacy of the Seabees and educates the public on their important role in defending our nation.

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is a museum and tourist attraction located at 501 North Main Street in Los Angeles, California. This institution celebrates Latinx culture through exhibitions, music, dance, culinary arts, and storytelling experiences. The campus includes historic buildings, public gardens, and a culinary teaching kitchen. Visitors can explore the history and contributions of Mexican and Mexican Americans in Southern California through guided tours and workshops. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is a nonprofit organization and an official project of Los Angeles County, affiliated with the Smithsonian. Come and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Latinx people in Los Angeles at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes. Ages 18 can enjoy poetry readings, cooking classes, and special events celebrating the vibrant history of the city.

The Oxnard Historic Farm Park is a charming museum and tourist attraction located at 1251 Gottfried Place in Oxnard, California, United States. This unique institution offers visitors a glimpse into the rich agricultural history of the region, showcasing vintage farming equipment, historic buildings, and beautifully preserved gardens. Guests can take a leisurely stroll through the park, learn about the area's farming heritage, and enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, the Oxnard Historic Farm Park is a must-visit destination in Southern California.

Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1805 West 9th Street in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, United States. This institution is part of the LA County Parks partnership with 560 schools to provide park access to over 450,000 students across Los Angeles County. The park offers educational services and experience programs for SCUBA divers, freedivers, and dive leaders through the County of Los Angeles Underwater Unit. The Department of Parks and Recreation has a rich history dating back to the merger of the Parks Division and the Department of Recreation, Camps, and Playgrounds in 1944. Today, the Department owns 182 parks including natural areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural venues like the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre and the Hollywood Bowl. With a commitment to providing social, cultural, and recreational opportunities for all, the Department relies on partnerships with various organizations and agencies, as well as a dedicated team of employees and volunteers. The park offers creative and innovative recreational programming for the whole family, as well as special events throughout the year. Visit Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center to enjoy the beauty of nature and the benefits of outdoor recreation.

Robertson Art Zone, also known as RAZ Land, is a premier Art Center located in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Our mission is to help children and adults unlock their creativity and express themselves through various art mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and animation. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for our students, with gated facilities, security cameras, and a strict sign-in/out procedure. At RAZ Land, we celebrate diversity and unity through our Cultural World Tour, where participants from around the globe come together to share stories through art. Our talented staff and educators hail from various countries, bringing a rich and multicultural experience to our art programs.