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Museums with outdoor space in California

An outdoor museum experience that integrates the landscape into the art instead of just placing sculptures on a lawn.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Norton Simon Museum image 1
Norton Simon Museum image 2
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Museum combines impeccable architecture with world-class South and Southeast Asian sculptures and paintings. Quiet, spacious galleries lead to tranquil outdoor sculpture gardens with a cafe by a pond. Noise from nearby freeway can intrude but overall setting remains peaceful and well curated.

The museum showcases pre-modern art with works by Renoir, Cezanne, Monet, and Van Gogh. It offers free admission for college students and provides a quiet, intimate setting for viewing art.

Two beautiful outdoor sculpture gardens create a striking setting. The outdoor cafe serves a great selection of pastries and Italian sodas alongside coffee and snacks.

People are saying

"I found this museum to be a surprising gem."

"The outdoor space is a beautiful sculpture garden."

"I found the parking here easy and free."

Good to know

1

Admission is $15 for adults; children 18 and younger enter for free.

2

Free admission for all visitors on the first Friday of every month from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

3

The museum is open late on Friday and Saturday nights.

02
Travel Town Railroad image 1

Outdoor and indoor historic trains create a nostalgic atmosphere surrounded by quiet, natural settings. Children engage with a miniature railway and play areas, while adults enjoy a relaxed, peaceful environment with free admission.

Entry to all exhibitions is completely free. The museum features an impressive collection of locomotives and offers a short train ride. It combines a museum-park setting suitable for families.

Outdoor areas include free access to exhibitions and reservable tables for events. Spaces suit children's birthday parties, with multiple parties held both outdoors and inside a car.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with miniature trains and old engines."

"This museum is free to visit and park."

"You can walk right up to many of the historic trains in the outdoor space."

Good to know

1

The entrance to Travel Town Railroad is free for all visitors.

2

Train rides cost $4 for adults and $3 for children.

3

Parking is free at Travel Town Railroad.

03
Forest Lawn Museum image 1

Art museum combines peaceful sanctuary with breathtaking Christian artworks and well-maintained grounds. Visitors find panoramic city views from observation areas alongside serene sculptures and fountains. Atmosphere stays calm and reflective, offering a quiet retreat amid impressive historical art.

Special exhibits feature wonderful art shows including topics like David Bowie and panoramas. The museum offers free admission and parking, with a quiet, serene atmosphere and beautiful grounds featuring sculptures and fountains.

Statues and a bronze replica of David stand outdoors, offering a distinct experience from indoor art. Surroundings inside and outside the church create a beautiful atmosphere.

People are saying

"You have to see Jan Styka's massive painting, 'The Crucifixion'!"

"You have to see the massive painting in the museum."

"The outdoor space has beautiful surroundings and appreciated statues."

Good to know

1

Parking and admission to Forest Lawn Museum are free.

2

The museum offers a rich cultural experience without any entry fee.

3

The Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection features Jan Styka's 1896 painting of the Crucifixion.

04
Filoli Historic House & World-Class Garden image 1

Historic mansion and well-maintained gardens create a peaceful, beautiful setting. Visitors explore stunning landscaping and enjoy seasonal outdoor events with music and food. The atmosphere blends natural beauty with cultural richness.

Trolls exhibit and Halloween exhibit draw strong attention with engaging themes. Museum houses offer warmth and charming corners alongside impressive art displays.

Luxurious portable toilets sit right outside the entrance and stay immaculate. A lovely picnic area and festive gardens invite exploration and outdoor yoga sessions.

People are saying

"The historical house and gardens are stunning and impressive."

"The outdoor space offers peaceful corners for relaxing and unwinding."

"The troll exhibit here was especially enjoyable."

Good to know

1

There is an admission fee to tour the house and gardens.

2

Tickets often sell out quickly, so it's best to buy in advance.

3

Reservations are recommended for popular events like the Halloween festival.

05
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library image 1

Museum combines stunning architecture with breathtaking panoramic views and immaculately maintained gardens. Exhibits include real Air Force One and Marine One, along with interactive and holographic displays. Outdoor seating areas offer peaceful spots to relax and enjoy views of surrounding nature.

Exhibits include the Dead Sea Scrolls and a detailed Holocaust exhibit with an audio tour. The museum features Air Force One aircraft and thorough displays on the president's life and political moments.

Outdoor seating offers a spot to eat while taking in the valley views. The scenery includes hills of Eastern Ventura County and adds to the experience of dining outside.

People are saying

"You can see the actual Air Force One at the Libraries."

"You can stand in the Oval Office and on Air Force One at these museums."

"The outdoor space offers breathtaking views of the hills."

Good to know

1

The Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit is available until September 2, 2025.

2

Tickets for the library are priced at $15 for adults and $10 for children.

3

Special events like book signings and lectures occur regularly at the library.

06
Chumash Indian Museum image 1

Small museum with historical artifacts and outdoor native plant gardens offers a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by oak trees and hiking trails. Exhibits focus on local Native American history and resilience, with an educational vibe in a dry, somewhat secluded setting.

Small exhibits focus on the Chumash tribe's history and culture with detailed displays on the reservation and native plants. Outdoor areas include multiple native plant gardens and a short hike with exhibits. Free wifi and parking are available.

Outdoor space includes multiple native plant gardens and a village area. A short hike leads to outside exhibits.

People are saying

"I loved learning about the Chumash tribe's history and culture at the museum."

"I learned so much about Chumash history and culture at this historical site."

"The outdoor space has exhibits on a hike and native plant gardens."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $8 for adults.

2

The museum is small and can be seen in less than an hour.

3

There are outdoor exhibits available on a short hike.

07
Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum image 1

Museum combines intimate atmosphere with elegant, classical design and historical recreations like the White House East Room and Oval Office. Live performances by a talented string quartet add a relaxing, sophisticated vibe. Grounds and venue offer a beautiful, presidential setting ideal for special events.

Interactive exhibits use pictures, videos, audios, and models to tell the president's life story. Staff provide informative and friendly guidance throughout the comprehensive displays.

Outdoor space includes a birthplace farmhouse that connects to Nixon's early life. Gardens and an outside theater add beauty and function for events like weddings.

People are saying

"You can really experience Nixon's life and presidency at these historical sites."

"I found the museum experience to be amazing and well done."

"The outdoor space here is gorgeous and beautiful."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available at the Nixon Library.

2

The ticket price is $16 for adults and $12 for seniors.

3

Candlelight concerts are hosted regularly at the library.

08
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.

Open hangars and a large outdoor area showcase an impressive collection of aircraft. Expect to spend time outside, so bring water and check the weather due to heat and exposure.

People are saying

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

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

"You can see impressive aircraft in the outdoor space, many still flying."

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.

09
Point Vicente Interpretive Center image 1
Natural history museum

Natural history museum offers stunning ocean views and peaceful walking trails along cliffs. The atmosphere is serene and soothing, with picnic areas and a native plant garden enhancing the experience. Visitors often enjoy close encounters with goats and a small gift shop adds to the charm.

Free entry lets visitors explore exhibits on lighthouse history, fossils, and native artifacts. The museum offers a compact but rich look at the peninsula's pre-historic past and local wildlife.

Breathtaking views surround the outdoor space, including a patio perfect for watching whales. Walking paths are peaceful and dog-friendly, with notable whale tail paintings adding interest.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful ocean views and sunset."

"The interpretive center's exhibits offer stunning ocean views and whale watching."

"The outdoor space offers stunning ocean views and coastal walking paths."

Good to know

1

The visit is free to the public.

2

Parking is free at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center.

3

Public toilets are available at the site.

10
Olinda Oil Museum & Trail image 1

Small history museum sits amid a quiet, well-maintained trail featuring old oil equipment and historic buildings. The area offers beautiful views and a 2-mile loop suitable for walking, jogging, and biking. Visitors encounter a retro vibe with outdoor exhibits and wildlife along the path.

Small size offers a focused look at the history of oil production with historic buildings and equipment displayed outdoors. Informative plaques and minimal signage accompany the exhibits, making it great for photo opportunities and appreciating history.

Outdoor exhibits include historic buildings and old oil equipment with informative plaques. Some wells outside still function, adding to the hands-on feel.

People are saying

"I enjoyed hiking the trails around the outdoor museum exhibits."

"I found the historical oil production sites and museum very interesting."

"You can hike trails with nice views and lots of wildlife."

Good to know

1

The museum is open on Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 4 pm.

2

Reservations are required for museum tours.

3

Parking is very limited, but there is ample street parking available.

11
Hammer Museum image 1
Art museum

Modern building combines bright, open spaces with indoor and outdoor courtyards featuring garden seating and bamboo surroundings. Atmosphere stays calm and peaceful, offering spots to relax, read, or work quietly. Occasional live art performances and a small cafe add subtle energy without disrupting the tranquil vibe.

Free admission makes the museum very accessible. It features a small permanent collection with classic European painters like Van Gogh and Manet, alongside experimental contemporary exhibits. The space feels safe and clean, hosting events like artist talks and film screenings that push artistic boundaries.

Outdoor garden seating at the ground floor restaurant offers a pleasant spot to relax. The museum features a lovely courtyard and unique outdoor exhibits that create an engaging experience.

People are saying

"The museum entry was free."

"I found the art, especially the Japanese woodblock prints, really interesting."

"I loved the indoor and outdoor flow of the space."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Hammer Museum is free.

2

Parking fees will start in June 2023, costing $8 for the first three hours.

3

The museum hosts events like artist talks, film screenings, and live performances.

12
Mission San Juan Capistrano image 1

Historic mission grounds showcase beautiful gardens, grand ruins, and serene atmosphere. Visitors experience a peaceful, holy vibe with accessible paths and engaging audio tours. The site blends rich history with tranquil outdoor spaces.

Exhibits focus on Spanish colonial era and Native American life. New displays appear regularly, keeping the museum fresh and engaging.

Gardens offer a tranquil escape from the busy city noise. Outdoor areas host live music and theater productions, with umbrellas provided on rainy days to keep touring comfortable.

People are saying

"The historical sites' beautiful grounds and architecture are amazing."

"The museum's beautiful gardens and architecture are amazing."

"The grounds and gardens are beautiful and tranquil."

Good to know

1

Admission is $20 for adults, $14 for children, and $17 for seniors.

2

The mission hosts summer concerts under the stars, a popular seasonal event.

3

Every day at 9 am, four historic bells ring to call for prayer.

13
Los Angeles Maritime Museum image 1

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.

Two levels offer indoor space, plus an outside deck with seating to take in the view.

People are saying

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

"It's a really Kid Friendly place with a great play area upstairs."

"You can sit on the outdoor deck and enjoy the view."

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.

14
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation image 1

Three floors of hands-on science activities create an interactive environment filled with creative and engineering challenges. The rooftop offers panoramic views and lively water play, while quieter spaces provide balance amid the generally loud and energetic atmosphere. Various areas cater to all ages, making exploration diverse and engaging.

An interactive science museum with tons of hands-on exhibits spread across three floors. It offers engaging activities for kids 10 and under and keeps younger children busy at each display.

An outdoor area features pressurized movement tests with parachutes and soft balls moving through pipes. The roof patio hosts noisy exhibits and well thought out displays, while the inner courtyard draws many visitors.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly, my kids could have spent hours creating in the maker's space."

"The rooftop offers a beautiful view of Santa Barbara."

"This interactive children's museum is so engaging and hands-on."

Good to know

1

Admission is $20 for adults and children.

2

Toddler Tuesdays offer special programming for young kids.

3

The museum does not have on-site parking available.

15
Old Mission Santa Barbara image 1

Spanish Colonial architecture with twin bell towers and historic mission church creates a striking presence. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere invites inner reflection amid beautiful gardens and sweeping mountain and ocean views. Continuous use since founding adds a unique sense of living history.

Exhibits focus on early California and Franciscan history with many historic artifacts and stories. The museum includes a Sistine Chapel exhibition and detailed displays about the chapel's background.

Walking outside offers a pleasant and peaceful atmosphere with an impressive historic facade and a great view. The outdoor patio features chalk art and serves as a community gathering spot.

People are saying

"This historical site is rich with California history."

"The mission's architecture and gardens offer stunning ocean and mountain views."

"The outdoor space has beautiful rose gardens and great views."

Good to know

1

Admission is $25 for adults, with free entry during services.

2

Parking is free and easy to find in the side lot.

3

The mission hosts events and services, allowing free access during those times.

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