Top 100 best museums in California

San Diego Zoo Safari Park, previously known as San Diego Wild Animal Park until 2010, is a sprawling 730-hectare zoo located in the San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California, in close proximity to Escondido. This vast expanse of land is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a popular destination for tourists and animal enthusiasts alike.

The Aquarium of the Pacific, previously known as the Pacific Aquarium of Long Beach, is a public aquarium that spans 5 acres in Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach, California. This location is a significant attraction in the United States, offering a wide range of marine life exhibits and educational programs.

The Getty Center, situated in Brentwood, a district in the west of Los Angeles, serves as the headquarters of the J. Paul Getty Trust. Since 1997, it has been home to the majority of the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection. This makes it a significant location for those interested in exploring a vast array of art pieces.

Alcatraz Island, a significant landmark in the United States, is situated in the San Francisco Bay. This location offers a unique perspective of the city's skyline and the surrounding bay area. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

The USS Midway Museum is a significant historical naval aircraft carrier museum situated in downtown San Diego, California at Navy Pier. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of naval history in the heart of a bustling city.

The San Diego Zoo, nestled in Balboa Park, San Diego, California, is home to a diverse range of wildlife. It boasts a collection of 4,000 animals from 800 different species, all residing in a 40-hectare wooded area. This vast space allows for a unique and immersive experience for visitors, offering a glimpse into the natural habitats of these animals.

Filoli is a historic villa from the early 20th century that is protected as a monument. It boasts an extraordinary garden and park area that spans approximately 2.6 km². The villa is nestled in the mountains between San José and San Francisco, in Woodside, California. This location offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The M.H. de Young Museum is one of two museums in San Francisco that are part of the overarching Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. The other museum is the California Palace of the Legion of Honor located in Lincoln Park. These two museums together offer a comprehensive experience of fine arts in the city.

The Hollywood Museum is situated in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on North Highland Avenue. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the Hollywood history, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Grammy Museum is a unique destination that offers an interactive and educational experience dedicated to the history and winners of the Grammy Awards. It provides a deep dive into the world of music, from the creative process to the technology of recording, and the history of the prestigious Grammy Awards. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including behind-the-scenes live performances, seminars, classes, and musician meet-and-greets.

The La Brea Tar Pits is an area in the American city of Los Angeles where asphalt seeps from the ground to the surface. This unique geological phenomenon has led to the area being designated as a park. The tar pits are a fascinating sight to behold, with the asphalt appearing to bubble up from the ground.

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, also known as SFMOMA, is a significant modern art museum and a landmark in the city of San Francisco. It was established in 1935, making it the first museum on the West Coast dedicated solely to 20th-century art. This historical significance adds to the museum's appeal for tourists interested in modern art and the cultural history of San Francisco.

The Getty Villa, located in Pacific Palisades, is one of the two sites of the J. Paul Getty Museum. This site is dedicated to the museum's antiquities collection, offering visitors a chance to explore a vast array of ancient artifacts. The villa itself is a recreation of the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, providing a unique backdrop for the museum's collection.

The San Francisco Zoo, nestled in the southwest corner of San Francisco, California, is a sprawling 100-acre park that is home to over 260 different species of animals. The zoo is conveniently located between Lake Merced and the Pacific Ocean, making it a scenic destination for visitors. It is easily accessible via the Great Highway, which runs along the western side of the zoo.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, located in Los Angeles, California, is the largest natural history museum in the western United States. Its extensive collections include nearly 35 million specimens and artifacts that span 4.5 billion years of history. This vast collection provides a comprehensive view of the natural world and human history, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in natural history and culture.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is a renowned wax museum situated on the famous Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. This location is the ninth installment of the Tussauds franchise, which was established by the talented sculptor Marie Tussaud. The museum is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique opportunity to see lifelike wax figures of famous celebrities.

Aquarium of the Bay is a public aquarium situated on The Embarcadero in San Francisco, California. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore the aquatic life that inhabits the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters.

The Broad is a contemporary art museum situated in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Named after its primary financiers, Eli and Edythe Broad, the museum is a significant cultural landmark in the city. It showcases a diverse range of contemporary art, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.

Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, a Catholic parish, is situated in the picturesque city of Carmel-by-the-Sea in Monterey County, California. This historic mission was the second one established by Friar Junípero Serra in the territory of Alta California back in 1771. It stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium (MBA) in Monterey, California, is recognized as one of the largest public aquariums globally. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse range of marine life in a single location. The aquarium's size and variety of exhibits make it a significant attraction for tourists visiting Monterey.

The California Science Center, located in Los Angeles, California, is the largest science museum in the western United States. It is situated in Exposition Park, adjacent to the campus of the University of Southern California. Established in 1951, the museum was originally known as the California Museum of Science and Industry before it was renamed in 1998.

The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a maritime museum situated at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro, Los Angeles, California. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore a significant piece of naval history in a vibrant and bustling port setting.

The Exploratorium is a museum of science, technology, and arts in San Francisco, United States. It is characterized as a 'mad scientist's playground, a scientific funhouse, and an experimental laboratory, all in one.' The participatory nature of its exhibits and its self-identification as a center for informal learning has led it to be cited as the prototype for participatory museums worldwide.

The Hollywood Wax Museum is a unique attraction located on Hollywood Boulevard in the tourist district of Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. It features wax replicas of various celebrities, offering visitors a chance to see lifelike representations of their favorite stars. The museum also has other locations in Myrtle Beach, Branson, and Pigeon Forge, making it accessible to a wider audience.

The Legion of Honor, originally known as the California Palace of the Legion of Honor, is an American art museum that was inaugurated in 1924. It is situated in the city of San Francisco, California. This museum is a part of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and is a significant cultural landmark in the city.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego, founded in 1948, is home to one of the largest collections of historic sea vessels in the United States. This collection provides a unique insight into the maritime history of the country and offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of historic ships.

The Aquarium of the Pacific, previously known as the Pacific Long Beach Aquarium, is a substantial aquarium spanning 5 acres. It is situated in the scenic Rainbow Harbor in Long Beach, California. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a wide variety of marine life in a spacious and well-maintained environment.

The Conservatory of Flowers is a greenhouse and botanical garden situated in the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, California. It is a unique attraction that houses a collection of rare and exotic plants. The greenhouse is entirely made of wood and glass, with a total of 16,800 panes. It is one of the oldest municipal greenhouses in the United States, built in 1879 by the city of San Francisco.

The California Academy of Sciences, located in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California, is a unique blend of a science academy and a natural history museum. It features a planetarium, an artificial rainforest, and a large aquatic area. This combination of features offers visitors a diverse and comprehensive experience, allowing them to explore various aspects of natural history and science in one place.

Hearst Castle is a grand palace that was commissioned by the press magnate William Randolph Hearst. The architect behind this magnificent structure was Julia Morgan. The castle is located near San Simeon, in San Luis Obispo County, California, United States. It offers a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean and is a significant landmark in the region.

The Giant Forest Museum is a natural history museum situated in Tulare County, California. It is nestled within the Giant Forest of Sequoia National Park and is operated by the National Park Service. This museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the natural history of the area and the diverse wildlife that inhabits it.

The San Diego Air & Space Museum, also known as the San Diego Aerospace Museum, is a prominent aerospace museum situated in the city of San Diego, United States. It is located in Balboa Park, specifically in the historic Ford building. This museum is a significant destination for those interested in aeronautics and space exploration.

Boudin Bakery, located in San Francisco, California, is renowned for its sourdough bread, which is trademarked as "The Original San Francisco Sourdough". This bakery has a rich history and is recognized as the oldest continually operating business in the city. The sourdough bread is a unique product of Boudin Bakery, making it a notable spot for tourists interested in local cuisine.

The Museum of Death, located on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, Los Angeles, and New Orleans, was established in June 1995 by J. D. Healy and Catherine Shultz. The founders' stated goal for the museum is "to make people happy to be alive." This unique museum offers a different perspective on life and death, aiming to provide visitors with a deeper appreciation of their own lives.

The California State Capitol Museum is situated in the heart of Sacramento, California. This historic site encompasses the California State Capitol building and its surrounding grounds. As a visitor, you will have the opportunity to explore the rich history and architectural beauty of the Capitol building, as well as the lush gardens and memorials in the surrounding park.

The USS Pampanito (SS-383) is a historic submarine that played a significant role in the Pacific War during World War II. It is now a museum ship located at Fisherman’s Wharf in the port of San Francisco. Visitors can explore this Balao class submarine and learn about its history and the role it played during the war.

The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, founded in 1966, is a 133-acre park located in the city of Los Angeles, Southern California. The city of Los Angeles owns the entire zoo, its land, facilities, and animals. It offers a unique combination of a zoo and botanical gardens, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore a diverse range of animal species and plant life in one location.

The Cable Car Museum is located in the Nob Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, California. This museum is free to enter, making it an accessible option for tourists of all budgets. It offers a unique insight into the history and workings of the city's iconic cable car system.

The NASA Ames Visitor Center, located at the entrance of NASA's Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, California, serves as the gateway to the world of space exploration. It provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about NASA's research and development activities, and the role they play in advancing our understanding of the universe.

The Point Reyes Lighthouse, also known as Point Reyes Light or the Point Reyes Light Station, is a significant landmark located in the Gulf of the Farallones on Point Reyes in Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California, United States. This lighthouse is a key feature of the area and offers visitors a unique insight into the region's maritime history.

Come here to learn about anything that broke a record at some point. Anything largest, smallest, best or worst - you'll learn all about it here in the middle of Hollywood. You can buy your tickets online and avoid queues and the best souvenir to get here is definitely the Guinness World Records book

Visit the large San Diego community of 200 artists and their studios. See, touch and feel the arts or participate in the intriguing workshops.

The Walt Disney Family Museum, also known as WDFM, is an American museum dedicated to showcasing the life and legacy of Walt Disney. It is situated in The Presidio of San Francisco, which is a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This location not only offers a rich historical context but also provides a scenic backdrop for visitors.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, often abbreviated as LACMA, is a prominent museum located on Wilshire Boulevard in the Hancock Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other notable landmarks, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The Norton Simon Museum is an art museum situated on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California. It was initially opened as the Pasadena Art Institute in 1922, focusing on 19th-century American and European art. The museum has undergone several transformations and name changes over the years, with a significant focus on modern and contemporary art.

The Winchester Mystery House, located in San Jose, California, near Santa Clara, is a renowned site in American folklore. It is known for its reputation as a haunted house, which adds a layer of intrigue and mystery to its history. This reputation has made it a popular destination for tourists who are interested in the supernatural or simply want to explore a unique piece of American history.

The Eames House, also known as Case Study House No. 8, is a significant architectural monument located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles. The house is situated at 203 North Chautauqua Boulevard, in close proximity to the Pacific coast. This location offers visitors a unique blend of architectural history and scenic beauty.

The San Diego Natural History Museum, originally known as the San Diego Natural History Society, was established in 1874. This makes it one of the oldest scientific institutions in Southern California and the third oldest west of the Mississippi. The museum's rich history and longstanding commitment to scientific culture in the region make it a significant landmark for visitors interested in natural history.

Madame Tussauds San Francisco is a renowned wax museum situated in the vibrant area of Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, California. This location is known for its bustling atmosphere and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The museum offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to come face-to-face with lifelike wax figures of famous personalities.

The Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, also known as SVMA, is an art museum situated in the beautiful city of Sonoma, California. The museum was established in 1998 and since then, it has been a significant cultural hub in the region, showcasing works by regional, national, and international modern and contemporary artists.

The Holocaust Museum Los Angeles, also known as Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust (LAMH or LAMOTH), is situated in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the city's cultural landscape.

The Lummis House, also known as El Alisal, is a unique example of Rustic American Craftsman architecture. It was built by Charles Fletcher Lummis, a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The stone house stands as a testament to Lummis's craftsmanship and his love for the rustic aesthetic. It's a fascinating place to visit for those interested in architecture, history, or the life and work of Charles Fletcher Lummis.

Today, the Casa de la Guerra is owned and operated by the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation. The trust has transformed the historic house into a museum, allowing visitors to explore the rich history of the Guerra family and the city of Santa Barbara.

Chester Place, one of the first gated communities in Los Angeles, California, is known for its historical significance and its close proximity to the University of Southern California. It was home to prestigious residents, including Edward L. Doheny, a prominent figure in the American oil industry. The community's location and its historical residents make it an interesting destination for tourists interested in the history of Los Angeles.

The Asian Art Museum, located in San Francisco, was inaugurated in 1966. This was made possible due to a generous donation from Avery Brundage, a patron who continued to contribute to the museum even after its establishment. This historical context adds to the rich heritage of the museum, making it a significant cultural landmark in the city.

The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is typically docked at Pier 45 in the Port of San Francisco, California, where it is open for public viewing. It holds the distinction of being one of the few remaining ships that participated in Operation Overlord on D-Day during World War II. This makes it a unique and tangible piece of history that visitors can explore and learn from.

Good Vibrations is a corporation based in San Francisco that specializes in the sale of sex toys and other erotic products. The company was established in 1977 by Joani Blank, a sex therapist and educator. It was the first sex-positive and women-friendly store in the United States, aiming to provide a sex-positive and woman-centered alternative to the adult bookstores of the time.

The Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA) is a contemporary arts center located in San Francisco, California. It is a multi-disciplinary institution that celebrates local, national, and international artists. The center features visual art, performance, and film/video, providing a platform for diverse communities in the Bay Area.

The Huntington Library, situated in San Marino, California, is more than just a library. Founded by Henry E. Huntington, it serves as an educational and research institute. Apart from its extensive library, it also boasts an art collection that includes English figures and 18th-century French furniture. Additionally, it is home to beautiful botanical gardens, making it a diverse destination for tourists.

Joshua Tree National Park is situated in the southern part of California, United States. It is positioned to the east of the region between Los Angeles and San Diego, and north of Palm Springs. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting these popular cities.

Heal the Bay Aquarium, which was previously known as the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, is a unique private-public aquarium. It is situated beneath the Santa Monica Pier, right next to the Pacific Ocean. This location not only provides a stunning backdrop for the aquarium but also allows for a direct connection to the marine life it houses.

The San Diego Botanic Garden, previously known as Quail Botanical Gardens, is a botanical garden situated in Encinitas, California. Spanning 37 acres, this garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, explore diverse plant species, and learn about different ecosystems.

The RMS Queen Mary was a trans-Atlantic passenger ship that was part of the Cunard Line. It sailed from 1936 to 1967, making voyages between Southampton, Cherbourg, and New York. This historical ship offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur and elegance of trans-Atlantic travel during its time.

The San Diego Automotive Museum is situated in the heart of Balboa Park in San Diego, California. This location is not only home to the museum but also a hub of cultural and recreational activities. The museum's location makes it easily accessible for tourists, providing a convenient stop during a day of exploring the park's many attractions.

The Presidio of San Francisco, often simply referred to as The Presidio, is a park situated at the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while also being in close proximity to the bustling city of San Francisco, California.

The San Diego Museum of Man, an anthropology museum, is situated in the historic buildings of the California Quadrangle, in Balboa Park, San Diego, California. This location offers a unique blend of history and culture, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Point Fermin Light is a historic lighthouse located on Point Fermin in San Pedro, California. It was constructed in 1874 using lumber from California redwoods, a type of tree known for its longevity and resilience. This lighthouse stands as a testament to the maritime history of the region and the architectural prowess of the time.

The Children's Creativity Museum, located in Yerba Buena Gardens in San Francisco, California, is an interactive museum designed for children aged 2–12 years. It provides a unique and engaging environment where children can explore and express their creativity through various interactive exhibits and workshops.

The Relief (WLV-605) is a former lightship of the United States Coast Guard that now serves as a museum ship in Oakland, California. This historical vessel was built in 1950 and is one of the few surviving lightships, making it a unique attraction for those interested in maritime history. It was specifically built for the United States Coast Guard, adding to its historical significance.

The Contemporary Jewish Museum (CJM) is situated in the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood of San Francisco, California. This non-collecting museum is located at 736 Mission Street at Yerba Buena Lane. It is a unique institution that does not maintain a permanent collection, but instead curates and hosts a broad array of exhibitions each year in collaboration with other institutions.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, located in Santa Barbara, California, is a hub for nature enthusiasts. Each year, it reconnects more than 150,000 people to nature, both indoors and outdoors. The museum is a great place for tourists who are interested in natural history and want to learn more about the natural world.

The museum currently hosts three unique exhibits on the history of computing. "Mastering the Game" provides a history of computer chess, "Innovations in the Valley" offers a look at the companies and people of Silicon Valley, and a Difference Engine exhibit showcases a machine designed by Charles Babbage in the 1840s and built by the London Science Museum. These exhibits offer a deep dive into the history and evolution of computing.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, previously known as the Living Desert Museum, is a non-profit organization that operates a zoo and a desert botanical garden. It is located in Palm Desert, Riverside County, California, United States. This unique combination of a zoo and botanical garden is dedicated to the deserts of the world, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about desert ecosystems and their inhabitants.

Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30 is a historic fire station and engine company located in the South Los Angeles area of Los Angeles, California. This site holds significant historical value as it was one of the first all-black segregated fire stations in Los Angeles. It was segregated in 1924 and remained so until 1956 when the Los Angeles Fire Department was integrated.

The Japanese American National Museum is situated in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Specifically, it is nestled in the vibrant Little Tokyo area, which is conveniently located near downtown. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city.

The Ames Research Center plays a crucial role in space exploration, being involved in virtually all space probe projects either as a designer or a subcontractor for equipment or tests. The center also contributes to the space program for the search for life in the universe, the development of survival systems for future missions, and studying the effects of space on humans. This wide range of activities offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the ongoing efforts and advancements in space exploration.

The USS Midway has a rich history of service, having participated in the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. From 1973 to 1991, it was stationed in Yokosuka, Japan, serving as an advanced aircraft carrier. This period of service is well-documented in the museum, providing visitors with a deep understanding of the ship's role in these significant historical events.

The Cabrillo National Monument is a historic district and National Monument situated in San Diego, California. It is a significant site that commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the West Coast of the United States. The monument offers visitors a glimpse into the history of exploration and discovery in the United States.

SeaWorld San Diego is a renowned American amusement park situated in California. It is owned and operated by the SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment group. The park was established in 1964 by four graduates from the University of California. Initially, the idea was to construct an underwater restaurant, but due to technical difficulties, the concept evolved into a public aquarium and zoo.

The Clarke Historical Museum, located in Eureka, California, is home to the area's leading collection of California North Coast regional and cultural history. This collection provides a comprehensive insight into the rich history and culture of the region, making it a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the area's past.

The Museum of Tolerance-Beit HaShoah, located in Los Angeles, California, is a multimedia museum that aims to explore racism and prejudice globally, with a particular emphasis on the history of the Holocaust. This museum provides an opportunity for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of these significant historical events and their impact on the world.

The Reagan Library is conveniently located in Simi Valley, California, just 14 miles north of the city of Los Angeles. Visitors can easily reach the library by driving on the 118 State Highway of California, which is also known as the Ronald Reagan Freeway. This location makes it an accessible destination for tourists visiting the Los Angeles area.

The Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum is situated in the charming town of Solvang, California. This location is easily accessible for tourists visiting the United States, particularly those in or around California. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore a vast collection of vintage motorcycles in a beautiful setting.

The Birch Aquarium is a public aquarium located in San Diego, California. It is home to more than 3000 animals, representing 380 different species. This diverse collection of marine life provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the biodiversity of our oceans.

The Petersen Automotive Museum is situated on Wilshire Boulevard, along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile neighborhood of Los Angeles. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other cultural attractions, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

Point Reyes National Seashore is a vast nature reserve spanning 287.44 km², located on the Point Reyes peninsula in the western part of Marin County, California. The area was designated as a National Seashore in 1962, which placed it under the protection of the National Park Service. This designation allows for traditional ranch farming and oyster farming, which would not be permitted if it were classified as a National Park.

The USS Hornet Museum is a unique museum ship situated on the southernmost pier of the former Naval Air Station Alameda in Alameda, California. This location offers visitors a chance to explore a significant piece of naval history while enjoying the scenic surroundings of the Alameda waterfront.

The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, located in San Francisco, California, is a comprehensive destination for maritime history enthusiasts. The park features a collection of historic vessels, a visitor center, a maritime museum, and a library/research facility. These facilities provide a deep dive into the maritime history of the region and offer a unique experience for visitors.

Educational lectures, cultural events and public workshops are organized in this environmental educational center. Very enjoyable!

The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco is home to one of the world's most comprehensive collections of Asian art. It boasts over 18,000 works of art in its permanent collection, some of which date back as far as 6,000 years. This extensive collection provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and diverse cultures of Asia through its art.