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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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Updated May 2026
01
Medieval Torture Museum image 1
Medieval Torture Museum image 2
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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."

"It's a fascinating and unsettlingly moody place."

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.

02
Museum of Illusions - San Diego image 1

Small building packed with interactive exhibits and photo opportunities creates a lively, trippy atmosphere. Visitors engage with mind games and puzzles that blend fun with physics. The space feels clean and artsy, energized by a positive, joyful vibe.

Exhibits focus on optical illusions with clear explanations that engage all ages. The setup offers many photo opportunities and creates an entertaining, interactive experience.

Many rooms feature interactive illusions that engage both adults and kids. The exhibits offer a fun and amazing experience with a variety of cool visual tricks.

People are saying

"The staff here takes amazing photos and makes it fun."

"It's a super cool museum with lots of fun things to see."

"The museum staff took amazing photos for us."

Good to know

1

The museum requires a minimum of two people to visit.

2

Expect the museum to get crowded quickly due to its small size.

3

The museum features interactive exhibits that are great for photos.

03
Museum of Illusions image 1

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

"It's a fun place to play with your mind and see unique objects."

"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.

2

The museum is located on the third Street promenade.

3

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

04
Pacific Pinball Museum image 1

Museum showcases over 100 pinball machines arranged by decade across several themed rooms. Atmosphere blends nostalgic and friendly vibes with pleasant machine sounds and cool energy despite crowds. Visitors of all ages engage with both vintage and modern games, enjoying interactive displays that reveal pinball mechanics and history.

The museum showcases the entire timeline and scope of pinball history from old woodrails to modern games. It offers a very interactive experience where visitors can learn about the art, play, and science of pinball while playing many machines for the price of admission.

Historic and modern pinball machines stand out as well preserved and unique attractions. The space also features nostalgic art that appeals to adults.

People are saying

"I loved playing all the unique and historic pinball machines here."

"You can play hundreds of working pinball machines from different decades here."

"It's cool seeing all the historic pinball machines with info placards."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays offer a special rate of 2 for $22, allowing all-day play.

2

Admission is $15 for all-day access to historical and modern pinball machines.

3

The admission fee allows unlimited play on most machines.

05
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum image 1

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

"You'll learn so much about local maritime history here."

"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.

3

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

06
Compton Art and History Museum image 1

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."

"The Galleries here feel so welcoming and full of love."

"I found the whole experience very cool."

Good to know

1

The museum offers free entry with a suggested donation.

2

The next exhibition opens on September 14.

3

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

07
Valley Relics Museum image 1

Museum showcases neon signs, vintage arcade games, and pop culture artifacts in a nostalgic, slightly quirky atmosphere. Visitors play free pinball and video games while exploring exhibits full of local history and memorabilia. Energy feels relaxed with a focus on preserving memories from the past.

This museum preserves San Fernando Valley history with a wide range of pop culture artifacts like classic cars, neon signs, and Hollywood memorabilia. It features collections from familiar local places and brands, capturing memories from past decades.

A collection of cool neon signs and classic movie memorabilia creates a nostalgic vibe. The museum feels like a hidden gem packed with old, interesting items.

People are saying

"You'll see cool neon signs and old memorabilia here."

"This museum preserves amazing San Fernando Valley history."

"It was cool seeing all the old signs lit up."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $15 for adults.

2

The museum is only open on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm and Sundays from 10am to 3pm.

3

Free parking is available at the museum.

08
Battleship IOWA Museum image 1
Maritime museum

Massive warship with tight corridors and original furnishings creates an immersive experience of naval life. Atmosphere blends 1940s and 1980s elements, offering a unique historical perspective. Visitors encounter interactive exhibits and scenic views that bring the ship's story to life.

Exhibits focus on military history with informative and interactive displays. Guided tours offer a detailed look at the ship and its role in the US Navy.

Walking the decks offers a hands-on history experience with original Sea Wiz defense guns still in place. Exploring the ship reveals what life was like on board and how battleships helped win the war.

People are saying

"You can feel the history and learn a lot at this historical site."

"This museum offers a fascinating step back in history."

"I found the battleship really cool and fun to explore."

Good to know

1

Wear non-slip, low-heeled walking shoes due to the ship's high steps.

2

Parking costs $2 per hour and accepts credit card payments.

3

Entry is free for Iowa residents with valid ID.

09
Motte Historical Car Museum image 1

Barn building houses immaculate vintage cars with detailed historical information. Quiet atmosphere allows for easy exploration of well-preserved autos and local history exhibits. Small garden and gift shop add to the relaxed, owner-operated setting with free admission.

The museum showcases a variety of beautifully restored vintage cars from different decades, including an Auburn Boattail from 1935, Corvettes, and a T-Bird. It features informative displays for each car and is housed in an amazing barn building that is easy to walk around.

Events here are cool and unique. The museum inside a barn shows old cars that stand out.

People are saying

"These historical sites have amazing cars and local history pieces."

"I found the car museum to be great with many classic cars."

"You've gotta see the cool old cars, especially the Auburn Boattail."

Good to know

1

Admission is free, making it accessible for everyone.

2

The museum hosts special events throughout the year.

3

On Father's Day, they offer free coffee and cake.

10
Western Museum of Flight image 1

Small aviation museum showcases rare aircraft like the YF-23 and YF-17 prototypes. Visitors can sit in an F-5 cockpit and explore well-preserved jets in a compact, knowledgeable atmosphere. The museum blends historic aviation exhibits with passionate, expert docents sharing local aerospace history.

Compact space holds a unique aircraft collection and detailed exhibits. Staff provide friendly, informative tours with deep aviation history insights.

Small size holds a lot of unique artefacts and pictures. Exhibits feel fantastic and stand out as cool.

People are saying

"The museum guides are knowledgeable and make the visit memorable."

"I found the exhibits really interesting and packed with unique stuff."

"The staff here are so friendly and happy to answer questions."

Good to know

1

The museum is open only from Friday through Monday, 10am to 3pm.

2

Admission is $10 for adults, and free for children 12 and under.

3

Parking at the museum is free.

11
Santa Monica Art Museum image 1

Small, well-appointed space offers engaging exhibitions with high-quality memorabilia and interactive photo opportunities. Atmosphere stays welcoming and fresh, with a clean, nicely laid out environment. Exhibits often include photography and themed collections, attracting diverse visitors.

Exhibitions feature high quality memorabilia and engaging displays like Star Wars and National Geographic. The museum offers a clean, spacious setting with well organized exhibits suitable for all interests.

Exhibits feature awesome displays and include themes like Star Wars and the Accidentally Wes Anderson Exhibition that add a fun, cool vibe.

People are saying

"The exhibitions here are really engaging and awesome."

"The exhibits in the Galleries were interesting and well put together."

"I found the displays really cool and awesome."

Good to know

1

Admission is reasonably priced, with a BOGO deal available on Wednesdays.

2

Parking is available at meters or in a public lot a block away.

3

The museum features a Star Wars collectibles exhibit currently.

12
Lions Automobilia Foundation & Museum image 1

Museum showcases pristine classic cars and historic drag racers arranged in themed sections like American Muscle and Hollywood cars. Walls feature brilliant murals and detailed dioramas that enrich the automotive history experience. Volunteers provide knowledgeable insights, creating an engaging atmosphere for enthusiasts.

The museum showcases a staggering collection of classic muscle cars and drag racers, including Clint Eastwood's Grand Torino and a 1967 Mustang. Knowledgeable volunteers share stories about the exhibits and the founder, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Lots of classic cars and drag racers fill the museum. The collection feels well done and really stands out.

People are saying

"You'll find awesome restored cars and racing history here."

"The staff here are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"I found this car museum to be awesome and a must-see."

Good to know

1

The museum is only open a few days a week; plan visits accordingly.

2

Parking is easy and free for all visitors.

3

Admission prices are discounted for kids and seniors aged 62 and above.

13
Nautical History Gallery & Museum image 1

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

"This historical site features Joe's incredibly detailed ship models."

"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.

14
Nethercutt Museum image 1
History museum

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 was amazed by the collection of vintage automobiles, they were restored to original condition."

"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.

15
US Navy Seabee Museum image 1
History museum

History museum offers a calm, quiet atmosphere with informative exhibits on military and Seabee history. A kids' STEM play area provides hands-on building activities, making it family-friendly. The well-designed space includes named bricks honoring Seabees, adding a meaningful tribute element.

Free admission invites long visits through well-maintained exhibits that cover the Seabees' role from World War II to today. Knowledgeable staff support a quiet, clean space filled with artifacts and clear explanations of their impact on humanitarian and military missions.

Displays showcase a cool slice of history with lots of interesting artifacts. The museum offers a unique look into naval construction and engineering.

People are saying

"I learned so much about the Seabees' military and humanitarian missions."

"This museum offers a fascinating look at Seabee history and their vital role."

"I found a lot of cool stuff here."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

The museum is family-friendly with exhibits suitable for all ages.

3

Visitors can expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring the museum.

16
Marconi Automotive Museum image 1

Museum resembles a private garage with an open, spacious layout that highlights a diverse collection of rare and movie cars. Atmosphere stays relaxed and fun, welcoming a mix of families and car enthusiasts. Restoration work is visible, adding a unique behind-the-scenes element.

The museum showcases a collection of unique racing cars and bikes dedicated to Luca Marconi. Admission is free for kids under 13, making it an affordable and inspiring spot for families.

Collection features new models, vintage cars, show or movie cars, and a supercar. It offers a little bit of everything in cool cars.

People are saying

"You'll see cool exotic cars and race cars at this museum."

"It's a perfect, inspiring outing for kids."

"You'll see so many cool cars, like the Batmobile and KITT."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for kids under 13 years old.

2

Free parking is available on site for visitors.

3

The museum features unique cars like the Batmobile and a Pagani Zonda.

17
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum image 1

Spacious galleries showcase powerful Chicano art with modern, unique pieces and a two-story holographic display that commands attention. The atmosphere stays quiet and comfortable, inviting slow, thoughtful exploration without feeling crowded. Architectural details like a brick wall backdrop and a cool, well-designed interior enhance the experience.

The museum features a terrific collection of Chicano artists with galleries that are beautiful and well laid out. Every piece tells a story, creating an immersive experience filled with incredible art.

Cool art collections fill the bottom floor and the museum features a unique stairwell and mezzanine design between floors. The interior feels fresh and modern, creating a cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The galleries here are powerful, showing amazing and boundary-pushing Chicano art."

"I loved the museum's amazing collection of Chicano and Latino art."

"I found the Chicano art collection really cool and impressive."

Good to know

1

Entry is free on the first Thursday of the month from 6 to 9 pm.

2

The museum hosts live art shows and cultural performances regularly.

3

The top floor features rotating exhibits, so check what's on display.

18
Los Angeles County Fire Museum image 1

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."

"The historical sites' staff are so knowledgeable and welcoming."

"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.

3

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

19
NHRA Motorsports Museum image 1

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

"I found the NHRA Motorsports Museum to be full of drag racing history."

"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.

20
The Wende Museum image 1

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."

"This museum offers a fascinating, intimate look at Cold War history."

"I found the exhibits and relics really cool."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for everyone.

2

Parking at The Wende Museum is also free.

3

The current special exhibit expands beyond the Cold War focus.

21
Planes of Fame Air Museum image 1

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

"The historical sites here are amazing, especially the aircraft."

"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.

22
Lyon Air Museum image 1

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 see amazing historical planes and vehicles from World War II."

"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.

23
Martin Aviation image 1

Museum sits next to an active runway, offering views of planes taking off. Exhibits include well-maintained vintage aircraft, interactive vehicle cabins, and historical military vehicles. Knowledgeable staff and hands-on activities create an educational and engaging atmosphere for all ages.

Exhibits include interactive pilot and driver stations and priceless aviation and military items. The museum features well-maintained static displays and sits next to a runway for plane viewing.

Aircraft displays stand out alongside cool cars and memorabilia. The place offers a fun vibe that appeals to kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with interactive exhibits."

"It's filled with interesting aviation and military items."

"It's a cool place for kids to draw planes and cars."

Good to know

1

Admission is very affordable, making it accessible for families.

2

Some exhibits allow kids to have hands-on experiences.

3

Knowledgeable staff, including veterans, provide great insights about the exhibits.

24
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum image 1

Small, cozy museum with an old-fashioned theater showing silent films accompanied by live piano music. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and intimate, enhanced by the smell of homemade popcorn and vintage film equipment on display. Visitors engage with historic projectors and enjoy a quaint retro setting that preserves early cinema history.

Several hand-cranked arc lamp projectors are on display and visitors can touch and crank them. The museum features old movie equipment in good condition and shows historic silent films with piano music.

The place offers a really cool experience centered around the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum. It stands out for its unique focus on silent films.

People are saying

"You can watch classic silent films with live music here."

"I loved watching silent movies at this historic film museum."

"I found the museum and movie theater to be really cool."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts a weekly silent movie night every Saturday at 7:30 PM.

2

Check the museum's website for details on upcoming silent film screenings.

3

Silent films are shown on Saturday nights with a live pianist accompanying the movies.

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