TOP 30 Best Museum visits in California

Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site is a fascinating museum and tourist attraction located on Silver Canyon Road in Bishop, California, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad industry in the region and offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich heritage of the area. The museum features a collection of historic trains, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase the importance of railroads in shaping the development of the American West. Visitors can also take a ride on a vintage train and experience the thrill of traveling on the old railway lines. With its informative displays and interactive experiences, Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site is a must-visit destination for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

Welcome to Museum Quality Framing & Art Services, your premier destination for custom framing and art solutions in Camarillo, California. Located at 60 Palm Drive, our family-run business is dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality craftsmanship to artists, interior designers, and art enthusiasts alike. At Museum Quality, we specialize in custom picture framing, offering creative designs that not only protect your artwork but also enhance the decor of your home. With over 30 years of experience, our skilled team is committed to delivering beautifully designed and impeccably crafted frames that showcase and preserve your cherished memories. Our personal one-on-one assistance ensures that your style and vision are incorporated into every project, guaranteeing your satisfaction.

Welcome to the International Printing Museum, a hidden gem nestled in Carson, California, at 315 West Torrance Boulevard. As a premier museum and tourist attraction, we invite you to embark on a fascinating journey through the history of printing and its profound impact on the world. Our extensive collection showcases rare artifacts, vintage printing presses, and historical documents that tell the story of how printed media has shaped society and culture over centuries. At the International Printing Museum, visitors of all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits and engaging demonstrations led by our knowledgeable staff. Whether you're a history buff, a typography enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolution of communication, our museum offers a unique and educational experience that will captivate your imagination.

The Karuk Tribe People's Center Museum & Gift Shop is a cultural institution located in Happy Camp, California. The museum showcases the rich history and traditions of the Karuk Tribe, offering visitors a glimpse into their unique way of life. The gift shop features a variety of authentic Native American crafts, jewelry, and artwork for purchase. Visitors can explore exhibits, learn about the tribe's customs and traditions, and support the local community by purchasing handmade goods. The museum is a must-visit destination for those interested in Native American culture and history.

The Kelley House Museum is a historic home and research center located in Mendocino, California, overlooking the ocean and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Built in 1861, the museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore life in a 19th century logging town. Join one of the docent-led walking tours to learn about Mendocino's history, from the Pomo tribe to European and Chinese immigrants. The museum also offers self-guided tours and special events, such as screenings and exhibitions. Visit the book store to explore local history books or conduct research with the expert staff in the climate-controlled storage facility. Celebrate the exceptional women of Mendocino with the Kelley House Museum, a non-profit educational corporation dedicated to preserving the area's rich history.

The Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, located at 2301 Hardies Lane in Santa Rosa, California, is a must-visit for fans of the iconic Peanuts comic strip. This museum is not just a tourist attraction, but also a research center dedicated to preserving the legacy of Charles Schulz. In addition to exploring the museum's vast collection of artifacts, visitors can shop for exclusive Peanuts gifts that can't be found anywhere else. Members of the museum enjoy special benefits and collectibles, both in-person and online.

The California Indian Museum & Cultural Center, located at 5250 Aero Drive in Santa Rosa, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for those looking to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of California's indigenous peoples. This museum offers a unique and immersive experience, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that highlight the diverse traditions, languages, and art forms of the state's Native American communities. Visitors can learn about the history of California's indigenous peoples, their resilience, and their ongoing contributions to the cultural fabric of the region. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the Native American heritage of California, the California Indian Museum & Cultural Center is a fascinating destination that offers insight and appreciation for the indigenous peoples of the state.

The Bay Area Discovery Museum is a vibrant and interactive museum located in Sausalito, California. Situated at 557 McReynolds Road, this family-friendly attraction offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities for children of all ages to explore and discover. From art and science exhibits to outdoor play areas, the museum provides a fun and educational experience for visitors. With its stunning waterfront location and engaging programs, the Bay Area Discovery Museum is a must-visit destination for families and tourists alike.

The Travis Air Force Base Aviation Museum is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 461 Burgan Boulevard in Fairfield, California, United States. This museum showcases the rich history and achievements of the Travis Air Force Base, one of the largest air force bases in the country. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, including historic aircraft, artifacts, and memorabilia that highlight the base's important role in military aviation. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the world of aviation and is a great destination for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the chance to learn more about the incredible legacy of the Travis Air Force Base at this captivating museum.

The Children's Natural History Museum in Fremont, California, is a unique and educational institution dedicated to inspiring young minds to explore the wonders of the natural world. Located at 4074 Eggers Drive, this museum offers interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and engaging programs designed specifically for children. Visitors can learn about dinosaurs, fossils, wildlife, and more through a variety of fun and educational experiences. With a mission to foster a love of nature and science in young learners, the Children's Natural History Museum is a must-visit destination for families and school groups alike.

The Alameda Museum, located at 2324 Alameda Avenue in Alameda, California, is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of the city. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the diverse heritage of Alameda, from its early settlers to its thriving arts and culture scene. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the past through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, the Alameda Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about this charming city.

The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a fascinating institution located at 1305 East Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California. This museum is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the natural history and biodiversity of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits on local flora and fauna, geology, and conservation efforts. The museum also offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages. With its stunning location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and curious minds alike.

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.

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.

The Santa Barbara Carriage and Western Art Museum is a unique institution located at 129 Castillo Street in Santa Barbara, California. This museum showcases a fascinating collection of carriages and western art, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the American West. From beautifully restored carriages to stunning artwork depicting the beauty and spirit of the west, this museum is a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike. Come explore the exhibits and take a step back in time at this popular tourist attraction in Santa Barbara.

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 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 Aviation Museum of Santa Paula is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 800 East Santa Maria Street in Santa Paula, California, United States. This fascinating museum showcases the rich history of aviation in the region, featuring a wide range of aircrafts, artifacts, and exhibits that highlight the evolution of flight. Visitors can explore interactive displays, learn about famous aviators, and even take a guided tour to gain a deeper insight into the world of aviation. Whether you're a history buff, aviation enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, the Aviation Museum of Santa Paula is sure to delight and inspire.

The Wende Museum, located in Culver City, California, is a unique museum and tourist attraction that offers a fascinating look into the history of the Cold War era. One of the museum's notable pieces is a silkscreen print featuring three portraits of communist leader Vladimir Lenin, each wearing a worker's cap. Created by artist Tibor Zala using the Ben-Day dot process, the portraits showcase Lenin in different colors, departing from traditional realism. Influenced by pop art icons like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, Zala's work reflects the cultural exchange that occurred despite the Iron Curtain divide. Visit The Wende Museum to explore this intriguing intersection of art and history.

The Western Museum of Flight is a must-visit museum and tourist attraction located at 3315 Airport Drive in Torrance, California, United States. This fascinating institution showcases a variety of historic aircraft and aviation artifacts, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the rich aviation history of the Western United States. From iconic planes to interactive exhibits, the museum provides an educational and engaging experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages. Come explore the Western Museum of Flight and discover the wonders of flight in Southern California.

The Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum is a unique institution located at 610 Lairport Street in El Segundo, California, United States. This one-of-a-kind establishment is a combination of a museum, store, and tourist attraction all rolled into one. Visitors can explore a stunning collection of vintage automobiles while enjoying delicious food options and browsing through a variety of automotive-related items in the store. Whether you're a car enthusiast or just looking for a fun and interesting outing, the Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Flight Path Museum & Learning Center is a captivating museum and tourist attraction located in Los Angeles, California. Situated at 6661 Imperial Highway, this institution offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of aviation and aerospace in Southern California. With interactive exhibits, historic aircraft displays, and educational programs, visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the world of flight. Whether you're a seasoned aviation enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience, Flight Path Museum & Learning Center is a must-visit destination in Los Angeles.

The Bowers Museum, located at 2002 North Main Street in Santa Ana, California, is a renowned cultural institution and popular tourist attraction. With a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and exhibits from around the world, visitors can explore the rich history and heritage of different cultures. From ancient civilizations to contemporary art, the museum offers a unique and educational experience for all ages. In addition to its permanent collection, the Bowers Museum also hosts special exhibitions, events, and programs that showcase the beauty and diversity of global cultures. Whether you are a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and enlightening day out, the Bowers Museum is a must-visit destination in Southern California.

The Lyon Air Museum, located in Santa Ana, California, is a fascinating institution dedicated to showcasing historic aircraft and vehicles from World War II. Visitors can explore a collection of meticulously restored airplanes, automobiles, and motorcycles that played a significant role in the war effort. The museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of aviation and military technology, as well as the brave men and women who served during this pivotal period in history. With its impressive displays and interactive exhibits, the Lyon Air Museum is a must-visit destination for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts alike.

The Hilbert Museum of California Art is a must-visit institution located in Orange, California. This museum showcases a stunning collection of California art, featuring works by renowned artists that capture the beauty and spirit of the state. From landscapes to portraits, visitors can explore a diverse range of artistic styles and subjects that highlight the rich cultural heritage of California. The museum is a popular tourist attraction, drawing art enthusiasts and history buffs alike to its location at 167 North Atchison Street. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, the Hilbert Museum of California Art offers a unique and immersive experience that celebrates the creativity and talent of California artists.

The Norton Air Force Base Museum, located at 1601 East 3rd Street in San Bernardino, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction. This museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of the Norton Air Force Base, which was operational from 1942 to 1994. Throughout its existence, Norton AFB served as a logistics depot and heavy-lift transport facility for various military aircraft, equipment, and supplies. Recently, the museum has added a new coffee cup featuring Aircraft 177, also known as the Hanoi Taxi, to its collection. These cups are available for purchase at $12 each, with a $5 shipping cost. Additionally, the museum has enhanced its exterior with eye-catching banners showcasing iconic aircraft like the C-141 Starlifter and the B2 Stealth Bomber.

The Oceanside Museum of Art, located at 704 Pier View Way in Oceanside, California, is a cultural hub showcasing a diverse range of contemporary art. The museum features thought-provoking exhibitions, educational programs, and community events that celebrate the creativity of local and international artists. In addition to its galleries, the museum also houses a store where visitors can purchase unique art pieces and gifts. With its prime location near the beach, the Oceanside Museum of Art is a must-visit tourist attraction for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

The San Diego Model Railroad Museum, located in the heart of Balboa Park in San Diego, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for train enthusiasts of all ages. Spanning 27,000 square feet, this museum showcases the rich history of railroading in Southern California through its impressive collection of trains, tracks, and trestles. As a nonprofit organization, the museum relies on generous donations to continue providing educational programs, family celebrations, and groundbreaking exhibits for visitors. To make it accessible for families, children 12 and under now get in for free.

The California Agriculture Museum, located at 1958 Hays Lane in Woodland, California, is a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the rich history of agriculture in the state. With the nation's most extensive collection of tractors and artifacts, the museum offers interactive exhibits and special events that trace the evolution of farming practices from the Gold Rush era to the present day. Visitors can explore galleries filled with harvesters, tractors, combines, trucks, and more, while learning about the innovative techniques that California food producers have employed throughout history. The museum also features rotating exhibits that highlight different aspects of the state's agricultural heritage.