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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to California

Cool museums

A museum that feels genuinely current rather than a dusty collection of exhibits that haven't changed in decades.

Based on 715 Opinions
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01
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Museum features dark, eerie basement filled with medieval torture devices and vivid, realistic displays. Atmosphere is creepy and immersive, enhanced by interactive exhibits and optional audio guides. Decor includes skulls, cobwebs, and art scrolls, creating a suffocating and unnerving vibe.

Exhibits offer a thought-provoking look at medieval torture with a well-preserved collection of artifacts. The museum features interactive displays and an audio guide that adds context and history to each exhibit.

Displays of medieval torture devices create a very cool and creepy atmosphere. The museum offers a super cool interactive experience with well-curated exhibits and a helpful staff.

People are saying

"This museum's detailed displays were fascinating and immersive."

"I found the museum's exhibits really cool and interactive."

Good to know

1

Admission is $29.99 per person for the Medieval Torture Museum.

2

The museum is wheelchair accessible, but the elevator is currently broken.

3

Expect to pay for parking near the museum, which can be congested.

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Museum offers interactive exhibits with mind-bending illusions like the rotating tunnel and Vortox. Atmosphere feels bubbly and fun, appealing to both kids and adults. Space encourages exploration and photo opportunities throughout.

Exhibits offer interactive illusions that encourage touching and experimenting. Friendly guides assist with explanations and photos, making it a playground for the mind with many photo opportunities.

Interactive illusions create a fun and trippy atmosphere. The exhibits offer a unique and entertaining experience that appeals to all ages.

People are saying

"I had so much fun at this museum!"

"The exhibits and experiences here are really cool and fun."

Good to know

1

Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children.

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The museum is located on the third Street promenade.

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Expect to spend about 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits.

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Intimate museum space showcases vibrant local art and community history with a welcoming atmosphere. Interactive features like a chalk wall invite visitor participation. The environment reflects authentic community pride and thoughtful curation.

Exhibits offer an immersive journey through local history, culture, and innovation with a strong focus on diversity and authentic community stories. The museum highlights achievements of notable individuals and everyday heroes, showcasing local art and history from black and brown communities.

A hidden gem showcasing local art and history creates a very cool vibe. Friendly staff add to the welcoming atmosphere making the experience stand out.

People are saying

"The museums here are powerful, informative, and emphasize our stories."

"I found the whole experience very cool."

Good to know

1

The museum offers free entry with a suggested donation.

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The next exhibition opens on September 14.

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The museum showcases local art and history, focusing on Compton's communities.

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Museum offers large, well-lit galleries with modern architecture and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Art displays include retro and nostalgic themes, featuring works by notable artists and a dedicated Disney area. Visitors find the space welcoming and thoughtfully curated, encouraging relaxed appreciation.

Free admission welcomes all visitors to explore an outstanding collection of California art. Exhibits feature watercolors and pastels with free parking available on site.

A cool collection of Southern California themed art fills the space with both a permanent collection and rotating exhibits. A radio display adds a unique touch to the experience.

People are saying

"I loved that visiting the museums was completely free."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

Reservations are required in advance to visit the museum.

3

The museum offers free parking nearby.

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Museum space showcases Cold War artifacts and 20th-century Russian books in a clean, modern building. Atmosphere feels quiet and intellectual, fitting the historical theme. Outdoor area includes a beautiful garden with Berlin Wall segments and a peaceful sculpture garden.

Exhibitions focus on Cold War history, featuring everyday artifacts and rare political memorabilia that tell powerful stories about life behind the Iron Curtain. The museum includes a spy technology exhibit and a beautiful garden for quiet reflection.

Engaging exhibits and cool relics fill the space. Corridors showcase artifacts and art that stand out, alongside a small library corridor with unique pieces.

People are saying

"The museum admission was completely free."

"I found the exhibits and relics really cool."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for everyone.

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Parking at The Wende Museum is also free.

3

The current special exhibit expands beyond the Cold War focus.

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Spacious museum with interactive exhibits and a wet deck where children engage directly with ocean specimens. Quiet atmosphere reflects a seaside English vibe combined with spectacular harbor views from the top floor. Activities appeal to both children and adults, offering hands-on learning about maritime history.

Small but packed with local maritime history and interactive displays, this museum offers engaging exhibits for both kids and adults. It features art exhibitions and cool artifacts that tell interesting stories.

Small museum offers cool artifacts and interactive exhibits that engage kids. The vibe reflects California's cool spirit and American pride.

People are saying

"This maritime museum is full of local history and cool artifacts."

"I found the museum to be very cool and nice."

Good to know

1

Admission is $12 per adult, with discounts for military and first responders.

2

Free parking is available for 90 minutes at the museum.

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Interactive exhibits include a sportfishing game and a boat driving simulation.

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Museum showcases antique fire engines including steam-powered and horse-drawn models alongside Hollywood memorabilia from a famous TV show. Atmosphere blends serious fire history with interactive areas where children can engage with fire safety activities. Volunteers are knowledgeable former firefighters, enhancing the educational experience.

Retired firefighters provide personalized tours sharing the history of the fire department. The museum features props from the Emergency TV series and has a large collection of fire-related exhibits.

A cool collection of firefighter trucks, tools, and equipment fills the museum, including pieces used in films.

People are saying

"The retired firefighters giving tours at the museum are so knowledgeable."

"It's a really cool place with a collection of firefighter trucks."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $5 for adults, and kids enter for free.

2

Military personnel and first responders receive free admission.

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Parking is limited; the best options are behind the museum or across the street.

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Museum combines local history exhibits with an interactive children's play area upstairs. Atmosphere balances educational displays and hands-on activities for families. Donation-based entry encourages casual visits with a friendly, accessible vibe.

Free entry with a suggested donation welcomes visitors to explore local history exhibits and a moving black and white photography display. The museum offers kid-friendly touch sections, educational programs, and outdoor events, making it a lively spot for all ages.

A spinning globe in the park grabs attention right away. Inside, miniature town sets and a kids' experience center offer hands-on learning about local history.

People are saying

"I found the museum's exhibits interesting and learned about local history."

"It's cool that you can enter for free, with donations appreciated."

Good to know

1

The museum is free to enter with a suggested donation of $5.

2

Free cultural events are hosted once a month, featuring different themes.

3

Interactive exhibits are available, making it kid-friendly and engaging.

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Museum showcases martial arts history through unique exhibits and real artifacts with video references enhancing understanding. Layout supports smooth flow, creating an engaging and informative atmosphere. Space feels like a hidden gem packed with rich culture and connections to the movie industry.

Exhibits showcase the history of martial arts and include a notable anime history section. The museum offers a rich collection of artifacts and movies that explain how martial arts evolved globally.

Exhibits showcase interesting weapons and gear from martial arts history. The museum feels like a cool hidden gem suitable for all ages.

People are saying

"I learned so much about martial arts history and culture at the museum."

"I found the exhibits here to be pretty cool and interesting."

Good to know

1

The museum is located underground next to a bakery; enter on Wilson and go downstairs.

2

Parking is available nearby with free 90 minutes and $1 for every additional 30 minutes.

3

Admission is by donation, so bring cash for the donation jar.

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Submarine features compact interior and smart design with interactive exhibits like sonar and periscopes. Atmosphere reflects camaraderie and sacrifice of crew life beneath the waves. Tours reveal deep-diving history and naval research in a single compartment vessel.

Interactive exhibits include sonar displays and periscopes for hands-on learning. The USS Dolphin exhibit offers a close look at naval research and development inside a museum ship.

The exhibit features the USS Dolphin submarine, known for its cool history and striking appearance. It stands out as a unique and interesting display.

People are saying

"I stepped aboard the USS Dolphin submarine museum and learned about life beneath the waves."

"I found the exhibit very cool."

Good to know

1

Get there early to secure parking and avoid waiting to buy tickets.

2

The exhibit is not suitable for people who are claustrophobic.

3

You can take a tour inside the submarine for a fee.

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Museum, skate park, and shop combine into one space filled with skateboarding history and community spirit. Energy stays warm and welcoming, with older skaters supporting younger ones and lessons offered on site. Collection includes vintage and modern skateboards, plus memorabilia honoring diverse skaters.

A visual timeline showcases skate culture's evolution and global reach with a rich archive of skateboards and related art. The space also serves as an indoor skate park and shop, creating a safe spot to immerse in skateboarding history and culture.

A friendly owner creates a positive environment for all ages. The museum features cool historical exhibits and many skateboards from different eras.

People are saying

"This skateboarding museum's extensive collection and Todd's passion are incredible."

"I thought the skateboarding museum was really cool and awesome."

Good to know

1

The museum is free to enter, and donations are welcomed to support its operation.

2

Parking is free and easily accessible.

3

The museum offers skate lessons at an affordable price.

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Museum showcases meticulously restored classic cars and vintage musical instruments within a space defined by giant marble pillars and stunning architecture. Atmosphere feels pristine, peaceful, and nostalgic, evoking elegance and luxury from a bygone era. Visitors encounter a calm, inspiring environment that contrasts with the unassuming exterior.

The museum showcases a free collection of priceless antique cars in a separate building with free parking. It also features musical instruments that add a unique touch beyond the car exhibits.

Curtains opening in music rooms adds a unique touch. The collection of historic cars offers plenty of cool facts. Seeing the train exhibit also stands out.

People are saying

"This museum's collection of rigorously restored vintage cars is phenomenal."

"I found the collection of rare classic cars to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Admission is free on certain days.

2

The museum is open only on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

3

One building is open for self-guided tours, while the other requires an appointment.

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Open hangars display vintage warplanes and rare aircraft like the only Japanese Zero in the world. The space feels spacious and easy to explore, with many planes still flying regularly. Docents provide deep knowledge, enriching the experience for aviation and history enthusiasts.

Warbirds collection stands out with a variety of aircraft and exhibits that impress visitors. The museum feels larger inside and offers special planes along with live Mitsubishi Zero flights every December.

Flying old planes adds a unique thrill. Watching the crew work and planes take off creates a cool experience. The gift shop offers many cool items to explore.

People are saying

"This museum has an impressive collection of vintage planes."

"I found the collection here to be very cool."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts a monthly program featuring a flight demonstration of a historical plane.

2

Every first Saturday of the month, enjoy a public discussion and flight demonstration of a classic warbird.

3

Parking can get crowded during Saturday events, so arrive early to secure a spot.

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Walls display a vast collection of historic vehicles and drag racing memorabilia in a climate-controlled setting. The atmosphere stays quiet and comfortable, with a small bar offering a place to relax. Exhibits cover drag racing history from early days to modern times, attracting enthusiasts interested in motorsports evolution.

Dynamic exhibits showcase a well-curated collection of race cars, dragsters, and historic vehicles tracing the evolution of motorsports. The museum offers a wealth of information and memorabilia focused on drag racing and hot-rodding history.

History and landspeed cars stand out here. The museum offers a cool look at racing's past.

People are saying

"This museum is full of NHRA racing history and cool cars."

"I found the history and cool stuff here really interesting."

Good to know

1

Admission is $10 per person, which is considered great value.

2

Parking is often available, especially on Saturdays when the lot is empty.

3

The museum features a large collection of memorabilia and historic vehicles.

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Museum occupies an old ferry terminal with harbor views and an outside deck. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxed with interactive kids' areas including costumes and play spaces. Exhibits focus on maritime history with detailed displays and period artifacts.

Exhibits focus on maritime history, including port development and ship craftsmanship. Displays cover the US Navy with a detailed section on a nuclear attack submarine. The museum offers views of the port and naval vessels, connecting exhibits to real maritime activity.

Exhibits include a Los Angeles class submarine section and tons of model ships. A kids exhibit adds interactive fun alongside educational displays.

People are saying

"You'll find detailed exhibits on local history and maritime life at this museum."

"I found the museum's cool exhibits to be full of model ships."

Good to know

1

Admission is $5 for adults, and kids enter for free.

2

Parking is free nearby, but limited on-site during events.

3

The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 12-5pm.

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Museum features large dinosaur skeletons and fossil trackways arranged attractively in a circular, two-floor layout. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and comfortable during regular visits to chaotic and loud during special events. Interactive areas include a dig pit and story room designed especially for children.

Displays include life-sized dinosaur fossils and many other fossils found locally. Hands-on exhibits let kids touch and dig for fossils, with story time activities for all ages. The museum sits in a natural foothill setting and offers a clear tour through Earth's evolution.

The museum offers a really cool experience with its unique paleontology exhibits. It stands out as a super cool gem despite some strict rules and an incident involving harassment.

People are saying

"The museum's fossils, like dinosaur skeletons and footprints, are amazing."

"I found the museum to be a really cool experience."

Good to know

1

Parking requires a quick driver's license scan by security at the school campus.

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Visitors must bring a driver's license or ID for entry.

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Admission is $12, but free entry is available with EBT.

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Remodeled historical gas station with classic cars and reproductions of original pumps creates a strong nostalgic atmosphere. Small museum and gift shop offer Route 66 history and memorabilia. Volunteers maintain the site and share its significance as the last historic gas station on the route.

The museum features a Route 66 vintage Filling Station and tells part of the history of Route 66. Knowledgeable docents share stories about the station, making the visit engaging despite the limited exhibits.

Remodeled historical gas station shines with nighttime charm and offers unique souvenirs that stand out. The whole spot feels genuinely cool and memorable.

People are saying

"I found the remodeled historical gas station really cool."

"The museum docents were so friendly and knowledgeable about Route 66."

Good to know

1

Cucamonga Service Station is free to visit.

2

The service station is a passport stop for Route 66 travelers.

3

Volunteers provide historical information about the site.

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Small museum with vintage locomotives and a classic depot building offers a quaint, educational atmosphere. Visitors explore inside train cars and enjoy a well-stocked library in the caboose. Open grassy areas invite picnics and play, creating a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.

Small and quaint, the museum features a steam locomotive and two cabooses that are well maintained. A small library with train books and knowledgeable staff add to the educational experience for families and kids.

Exhibits focus on railway systems, technology, and early rail life. Kids find the trains and displays especially cool.

People are saying

"I found the railroad museum to be small and very nice."

"It's a cool place to see trains and learn about railway technology."

Good to know

1

Admission is free, making it accessible for everyone.

2

Parking is available right out front and is stress-free.

3

No tickets are required to enter the museum.

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Rhythmic beats and bold artwork create an immersive space celebrating hip-hop's resilience and creativity. Portrait photography and curated artifacts highlight key contributors, while a 360-degree projection hall offers an exhilarating history of hip-hop culture. The venue blends visual storytelling with historical depth, focusing heavily on West Coast artists and their influence.

The museum features a comprehensive Hip Hop exhibit that traces its origins to today. It includes photographs, memorabilia, fashion, graffiti, lyrics, and music highlighting key contributors and cultural layers.

Immersive movies and the Hip Hop Til Infinity exhibit create a cool vibe here. Artwork, artifacts, and events add to the unique experience.

People are saying

"This museum's Hip Hop exhibit is amazing and well-presented."

"The artwork and artifacts here are really cool."

Good to know

1

The immersive documentary lasts around 20-25 minutes, perfect for a quick visit.

2

The exhibit features a strong focus on West Coast hip hop artists.

3

VIP experience includes a free lanyard and t-shirt.

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Victorian mansion showcases intricate woodwork, stained glass art, and pocket doors that separate rooms. Atmosphere blends mystical and haunting vibes with rich historical detail. Tours reveal social history woven into the home's musical and architectural heritage.

Intricate architecture and elaborate interior fill the museum with charm and history. Exhibits blend local stories with art, including a thoughtful fiber art show and a Victorian to Vanguard collection.

The spot feels cool and creepy with a vibe that mixes beautiful history and a groovy atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the actors in period costumes reciting Poe's works at the museum."

"It's a cool experience with groovy vibes and beautiful history."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to visit the museum.

2

The museum accepts only cash payments.

3

Check the website for upcoming events like Poe-Fest.

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Tight quarters hold hand-built ship models and authentic naval artifacts arranged by historical era. The atmosphere feels quaint and detailed, with a passionate focus on early US naval history. Visitors often engage with knowledgeable hosts and find the space welcoming to all ages and dogs.

Displays include genuine naval artifacts and stunning ship models covering different historical eras. The founder is present daily, sharing deep knowledge and personal insights about the exhibits.

The exhibit offers a cool tribute to US Navy ship history. Talking to Joe adds a friendly touch to the visit.

People are saying

"The museum owner's passion for his naval fleet exhibits is infectious."

"The ship models here are incredibly detailed and cool."

Good to know

1

The museum is free to enter, with optional donations.

2

Dogs are welcome at the museum.

3

The museum has easy access with nearby food courts and bathrooms.

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Converted hangar next to an active runway offers intimate exhibits of WWII aircraft and vintage vehicles. Quiet atmosphere with interactive zones where kids can explore cockpits and military jeeps. Visitors hear planes taking off nearby, adding a unique front-row aviation experience.

Immaculate restorations of WWII aircraft like B-17, B-25, and DC-3 stand in excellent condition, some still flyable. Visitors watch planes take off next to an active runway and explore interactive exhibits including cockpit and vehicle seating.

Planes up close fill the museum, with a tiny movie theater showing a short film about the exhibit. You can hear planes taking off from the nearby airport, adding to the interactive pilot experience.

People are saying

"You'll love this museum's collection of aircraft and cars."

"It's cool seeing the planes up close and talking to the pilots."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $14 for adults and $7 for children over 4 years old.

2

The museum is located next to an active runway, allowing visitors to watch planes take off and land.

3

There are usually special exhibits that visitors should check out.

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Historic adobe house with thick walls and rustic charm offers a glimpse into early 19th-century life. Courtyard provides a peaceful oasis amid a bustling street filled with shops and crafts. The museum preserves authentic period furnishings and maintains a serene, well-kept atmosphere.

Authentic period furnishings and exhibits provide insights into the daily lives of the Avila family and Latinos in ancient America. Admission is free, and the museum showcases classical beauty with an informative and engaging atmosphere.

Walls feel cool to the touch even on hot days. Streets nearby offer beautiful views and stands selling Mexican crafts.

People are saying

"This museum really takes you back in time."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Avila Adobe is free.

2

The Avila Adobe is accessible for people with reduced mobility.

3

The area surrounding the Avila Adobe has shops and restaurants.

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Huge restored trains and a working wig wag create a hands-on environment where visitors can enter trains, ring bells, and honk horns. The setting offers free admission and parking, attracting families and train enthusiasts alike. Well-kept steam engines, diesel engines, and cabooses provide a varied collection that appeals to all ages.

Visitors can climb into the cabs of locomotives to see and touch history directly. The museum features a variety of steam engines, several large train cars, and a cool outdoor train display with free admission and parking.

A standout feature is the cool train display outside. Several cool trains are spread around the area, creating a fun and interesting atmosphere.

People are saying

"The museums here are free to enter and park."

"It's cool that the museum, parking, and entrance were all free."

Good to know

1

Admission is free, and donations are welcome.

2

Parking is free and located at the same lot used for the model railroad.

3

The entrance is through Gate 17; turn right to access the museum.

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