Art Museums in California

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 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 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.

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 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 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.

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 Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles ( MOCA ) is a contemporary art museum with two locations in greater Los Angeles, California . The main branch is located on Grand Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles , near the Walt Disney Concert Hall . MOCA's original space, initially intended as a "temporary

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 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.

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 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 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 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 Cartoon Art Museum, located in California, is a unique institution that focuses on the art of comics and cartoons. It holds the distinction of being the only museum in the Western United States that is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting all forms of cartoon art. This makes it a unique destination for art enthusiasts and fans of cartoons and comics.

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 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 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 Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum (REM) is situated in the Rose Garden neighborhood of San Jose, California. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for visitors interested in ancient Egypt. The museum is part of the Rosicrucian Park, providing a serene and educational environment for all ages.

The Oakland Museum of California is a highly regarded institution in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering visitors the opportunity to explore art, history, and natural sciences. Located between Lake Merritt and downtown Oakland, the museum houses over 1.9 million objects, including fundamental works of art, historical and ethnographic objects, natural specimens, and photographs.

The Gamble House, also known as the David B. Gamble House, is a significant architectural landmark located in Pasadena, California. This house is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Greene and Greene firm, who designed and built it in 1908-1909 for David B. Gamble of the Procter & Gamble company.

The International Art Museum of America (IAMA), previously known as the Superb Art Museum of America, is situated at 1023 Market Street, nestled between 6th and 7th Streets in the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood of San Francisco, California. This location is easily accessible and is in a vibrant area of the city, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring San Francisco.

The Crocker Art Museum, located in Sacramento, California, holds the distinction of being the oldest museum in the city. It was established in the year 1885 by Judge Edwin Bryant Crocker and his wife Margaret Crocker. The museum was named after Edwin's brother, Charles Crocker.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, also known as SBMA, is situated in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, California. This museum, which was established in 1941, is a significant cultural landmark in the city. It offers visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art collections from different periods and regions.

The USC Pacific Asia Museum is an Asian art museum situated at 46 N. Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, California, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore Asian art and culture.

MOLAA is situated in downtown Long Beach, California. The museum is housed in a modern structure designed by Mexican architect Manuel Rosen. It features four galleries, a contemporary project space, and an outdoor sculpture garden. These spaces provide a diverse and dynamic environment for visitors to explore and appreciate Latin American and Latino art.

The California African American Museum (CAAM) is a cultural institution situated in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, California, United States. It is a museum dedicated to the enrichment and education of the cultural heritage and history of African Americans, with a particular emphasis on California and the western United States.

The Heritage Square Museum is a unique open-air museum situated in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the development of California architecture from the time of the American Civil War to the early 20th century. This museum is a testament to the architectural evolution of the region and provides an immersive experience for visitors interested in history and architecture.

The Hammer Museum, also known as the Armand Hammer Museum of Art and Cultural Center or UCLA Hammer Museum, is an art museum located in the Westwood district of Los Angeles, California. It is operated by the UCLA School of Arts and Architecture of the University of California. The museum was founded by Armand Hammer, the then CEO of the Occidental Petroleum Corporation, in November 1990.

Southern Exposure, also known as SoEx, is a non-profit arts organization and alternative art space that was established in 1974. It is located in the Mission District of San Francisco, California. This organization is dedicated to supporting emerging artists and fostering a vibrant art community.

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (or MCASD ), in San Diego , California , US , is an art museum focused on the collection, preservation, exhibition, and interpretation of works of art from 1950 to the present.

The Timken Museum of Art, established in 1965, is a fine art museum located at 1500 El Prado in Balboa Park, San Diego, California. It is conveniently situated close to the San Diego Museum of Art, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts.

The Mingei International Museum is a public institution dedicated to the collection, conservation, and exhibition of folk art, craft, and design. As a non-profit organization, the museum's mission is to preserve and showcase the 'art of the people', a concept that is deeply rooted in its name, Mingei, a term coined by Japanese scholar Dr. Sōetsu Yanagi.

The San José Museum of Art (SJMA) is located in downtown San Jose, California. It is a museum that focuses on modern and contemporary art. The museum was founded in 1969 and has since been a significant part of the city's cultural scene. It is conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible for tourists.

The Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA) is a unique combination of an art museum and a film archive, located at the University of California in Berkeley. It offers a diverse collection of art and film, making it a fascinating destination for art and film enthusiasts. The museum's collection includes over 22,000 works of art, ranging from Chinese paintings from the Ming and Qing dynasties to contemporary art pieces.

The Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center is a unique destination dedicated to the works of Charles M. Schulz, the creator of the beloved Peanuts comic strip. The museum offers a deep dive into the world of Schulz and his characters, providing a fascinating insight into the mind of one of the most influential cartoonists of the 20th century.

Craft Contemporary, previously known as the Craft and Folk Art Museum, is a non-profit, non-collecting arts museum situated on the Museum Row on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles. This museum is dedicated to showcasing contemporary craft, making it a unique institution on the West Coast of the United States.

The Museum of the African Diaspora, also known as MoAD, is a contemporary art museum situated in the heart of San Francisco, California. It is specifically located at 685 Mission St., nestled within the vibrant Yerba Buena Arts District. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique cultural experience amidst the bustling city life.

The Museo ItaloAmericano, also known as the Italian American Museum, is a cultural institution located in San Francisco, California. The museum's primary focus is on Italian-American history, art, and culture, offering visitors a unique insight into the Italian-American experience through a variety of exhibits and collections.

The Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies is a unique institution that serves as a museum, research center, and venue for lectures and performances. It is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned composer Ludwig van Beethoven. The center is located in the Martin Luther King Library of the San José State University in California.

The San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles, located in Downtown San Jose, California, is a unique art museum that was established in 1977. It is the first museum in the United States that is solely dedicated to the art form of quilts and textiles.

The Palm Springs Art Museum, previously known as the Palm Springs Desert Museum, is a renowned art museum and performance hall situated in Palm Springs, Riverside County, California. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a diverse range of art exhibitions and performances.

The California Museum, the state history museum of California, is situated in the capital city of Sacramento. It is housed within the Secretary of State building complex, adding a unique architectural element to its appeal. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Humboldt Arts Council (HAC) is the official arts council of Humboldt County, California, USA. It is located within the Morris Graves Museum of Art (MGMA). The council is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1966 and incorporated in 1971. It is dedicated to providing opportunities for artists, developing arts education, and making the arts accessible through innovative and multicultural programs.

The Riverside Art Museum is located in the historic Mission Inn District of Riverside, California. This location is not only significant for its historical value but also for its cultural and artistic relevance. The museum is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of art, history, and culture, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Monterey Museum of Art, also known as MMA, is an art museum situated in the beautiful city of Monterey, California. Established in 1959, the museum has been a significant part of the city's cultural landscape for over six decades. It offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the art of California from the 19th century to the present day.

The Triton Museum of Art, situated at 1505 Warburton Avenue in Santa Clara, California, is a contemporary art museum. It is a significant destination for art enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of contemporary art pieces.

The San Diego Museum of Art, located at 1450 El Prado in Balboa Park, San Diego, California, is a fine arts museum that boasts a broad collection. The museum is particularly known for its strength in Spanish art, making it a unique destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Catalina Casino is a large gathering facility located in Avalon on Santa Catalina Island , off the coast of Los Angeles in California . It is the largest building on the island and the most visible landmark in Avalon Bay when approaching the island from the mainland. The large building contains

The Muckenthaler House, which has been renamed the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, is a significant architectural landmark in Fullerton, California. Constructed in 1925, this large residence is designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, a popular architectural style in the early 20th century that was influenced by Spanish colonial architecture in the United States. The house's design and history offer a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting destination for those interested in architecture and history.

The Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) is located in the heart of San Diego's Balboa Park. The museum, which was first founded in 1974 and officially opened to the public in 1983, is a significant cultural institution in the city.

The Wende Museum, located in Culver City, California, is a unique institution that specializes in the collection of relics from defunct Eastern Bloc states from the Cold War era. This museum offers a deep dive into the history, culture, and art of the Soviet Bloc countries during the Cold War, providing a comprehensive understanding of the period and its enduring legacy.

The Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment, also known as The MADE, is a unique museum located in Oakland, California. It is dedicated to the world of digital art and gaming, offering fully playable gaming exhibits. This allows visitors to not only view but also interact with the exhibits, providing a unique and immersive experience.

The de Saisset Museum boasts a collection of nearly 10,000 art pieces and historical artifacts. This includes the work of early Californian artist and university alumnus Ernest de Saisset, as well as a significant collection of California mission artifacts. These collections provide a rich insight into the history and culture of the region.

The Palo Alto Art Center, located at 1313 Newell Road in Palo Alto, California, is a multi-purpose center that is open to the public. It offers a variety of art activities suitable for all ages. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a beginner, the center provides a space for you to explore and engage with art.

The Museum of Neon Art (MONA) is a unique art museum located in Glendale, Los Angeles County. The museum's primary focus is on neon tube art, showcasing a variety of pieces that utilize this vibrant and dynamic medium. Visitors can expect to see a range of exhibits, from rare old neon signs to contemporary works related to neon light.

The Headlands Center for the Arts is a unique destination located in the scenic Marin Headlands in Marin County, California. The center is housed in a campus of military buildings that have been artistically renovated, providing a unique blend of history and creativity. This location not only offers a glimpse into the world of contemporary art but also allows visitors to explore the rich history of the area, which was once a military installation.

The Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, also known as ICA LA, is a contemporary art museum located in Los Angeles, California. It was formerly known as the Santa Monica Museum of Art (SMMoA). The museum showcases the work of local, national, and international contemporary artists, making it a significant cultural hub in the city.

The Laguna Art Museum, founded in 1918, is an art museum located in Laguna Beach, California. It is situated high on the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean at the intersection of Cliff Drive and Pacific Coast Highway. This location offers visitors not only a chance to explore a vast collection of contemporary and modern art but also to enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Neutra VDL Studio and Residences, located in Los Angeles, California, is a significant architectural landmark. It is also known by several other names including the Neutra Research House, the Van der Leeuw House, the Richard and Dion Neutra VDL Research House II, or the Richard and Dion Neutra VDL Research Houses and Studio. This variety of names reflects the rich history and multifaceted nature of the property.

The USC Fisher Museum of Art boasts a diverse collection that spans various forms of media, including painting, prints, drawings, photography, and sculpture. The works in the collection range from the 15th to the 21st centuries, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the evolution of art over the centuries.

As the name suggests, this is a perfect chance to explore Chinese culture. The museum also provides guided tours of the Asian district.

The Japanese American Museum of San Jose, also known as JAMsj, is situated at 535 N. Fifth Street in San Jose. This location is in the heart of Japantown, a vibrant and culturally rich area of the city. The museum is easily accessible and offers a unique insight into Japanese American art, history, and culture.

The Institute of Contemporary Art San José, also known as ICA, is a nonprofit art center and gallery that was established in 1980. It is situated in the SoFA District of Downtown San Jose, California. This location is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, making it a fitting home for the ICA.

The African American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO) is a unique institution located on 14th Street in Downtown Oakland. It serves as both a museum and a non-circulating library, with a mission to preserve and share the history, experiences, and culture of African Americans. This makes it a significant destination for those interested in learning more about African American heritage.

The Fresno Art Museum, located in Fresno, California, is a hub for various forms of art. The museum's collection is diverse, encompassing contemporary and modern art, as well as Mexican and Mexican-American art, and Pre-Columbian sculpture. This wide range of art forms provides a comprehensive view of different cultures and periods, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.

California State University, Fullerton Grand Central Art Center is a partnership between the university and the city of Santa Ana . and is based in the Downtown National Register District or Artists Village.

The UCR/California Museum of Photography (CMP) boasts the most extensive photographic collections in the Western United States. These diverse collections cover a wide range of photographic arts, history, and technology. This information is beneficial for tourists who are interested in photography and want to explore a broad spectrum of photographic works.

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, also known as MAH, is a nonprofit educational institution that was established in 1996. It is situated in the heart of Santa Cruz, California, specifically in the downtown McPherson Center. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Bowers Museum, situated in Santa Ana, California, is an art museum that boasts a permanent collection of more than 100,000 objects. This vast collection spans various regions and periods, offering visitors a comprehensive look into the world of art and culture.

The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as MarinMOCA, is a contemporary art museum located in Novato, California. Established in 2007, the museum has since been a hub for contemporary art enthusiasts and artists alike. It is conveniently located in the United States, making it accessible for both local and international visitors.

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) is a renowned art museum situated in the business district of Newport Center in Newport Beach, California. The museum, which was established in 1918, has a rich history and has grown to become a significant cultural institution in the region. It is known for its extensive collection of contemporary and modern art, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.

LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, often referred to as LA Plaza, is a cultural center and museum in Los Angeles, California, USA. It was inaugurated in April 2011 and is dedicated to Mexican-American culture and history. The museum offers interactive exhibits, including a reconstruction of a 1920s Main Street, and shares the stories, values, and traditions of Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and all Latinos in Los Angeles and Southern California.

The Fowler Museum typically hosts between three to six art exhibitions at any given time. In addition to its role as an exhibition space, the museum also serves as a venue for a variety of cultural events. These include lectures on cultural topics, musical performances, art workshops, family programs, and festivals among others. This wide range of activities makes the museum a vibrant and dynamic place for visitors of all ages and interests.

The Wattis Institute for Contemporary Arts, established in 1998, is a renowned contemporary art center located in San Francisco, California. It is an integral part of the California College of the Arts, contributing to the vibrant arts scene of the city.

The Museum of Sonoma County, also known as the Sonoma County Museum, is a non-profit organization situated in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa, California. This museum is a significant cultural destination in the region, offering a rich blend of art and history through its diverse collections and exhibitions.

In Glendale, there are three chapels: The Little Church of the Flowers, The Wee Kirk o’ the Heather, and The Church of the Recessional. These chapels are exact replicas of European chapels, offering a unique architectural experience for visitors.

The Art, Design & Architecture Museum, previously known as the University Art Museum, is situated on the campus of the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) in Goleta, California. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the museum within the vibrant academic environment of UCSB.

Scripps College is renowned for its beautiful campus, which has been repeatedly recognized as one of the most picturesque in the United States. The campus is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places, further emphasizing its architectural and historical significance.

Admire the splendid works of Australian artist Glen Vause whose beautiful paintings will make your day.

Exhibits on various topics including art and technology are scattered through the airport building.

The Long Beach Museum of Art is situated in the scenic Bluff Park neighborhood of Long Beach, California. This location on Ocean Boulevard offers visitors not only a rich cultural experience but also a chance to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the area.

The Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, situated in the Barnsdall Art Park in Los Angeles, California, is a hub for the arts and artists of Southern California. The gallery provides a platform for the region's artists to showcase their work, making it a great place for tourists to get a taste of the local art scene.

Located in a university campus, this center specializes in promotion of cultural variety of California through various art forms.

A museum devoted to showcasing contemporary craft and design. Its exhibitions are primarily focused on everyday usage of design.

The Mexican Museum, located in San Francisco, California, was established to showcase the aesthetic expression of the Latino, Chicano, Mexican, and Mexican-American communities. This institution serves as a platform for these cultures to display their artistic contributions and heritage, making it a significant cultural hub in the city.

The centre has been promoting Latino culture for 25 years. See the perfomances, read the books, learn about the cuisine.

Casa Dolores, also known as the Center for the Study of the Popular Arts of Mexico, is an art museum situated at 1023 Bath Street in Santa Barbara, California. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore Mexican popular arts.

The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life, previously known as the Judah L. Magnes Museum until 2012, is a museum located in Berkeley, California. It is dedicated to Jewish history, art, and culture. The museum was founded in 1961 and has since been a significant repository of Jewish artifacts and manuscripts.

The Roslin Art Gallery, situated in Glendale, California, is a unique space dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Armenian folk art. This gallery provides an opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Armenia through its diverse collection of folk art.

California State University, Fullerton Grand Central Art Center is a partnership between the university and the city of Santa Ana . and is based in the Downtown National Register District or Artists Village.

Enjoy the variety of photographic styles in this collective gallery of fine art photographers. The workshops are enriching.

Established in 1964, this center promotes and displays works of local artists and organizes workshops and happenings for the public.

Run by a local community college, this gallery boasts quite remarkable exhibitions of both historic and contemporary art.

This venue is not only a museum presenting Californian art and culture but also a meeting place for people during various events.

San Luis Obispo is a city located in the state of California, USA. It serves as the county seat of San Luis Obispo County. According to the census conducted in 2020, the city had a population of 47,063 people. This gives it a vibrant and diverse community, making it an interesting place for tourists to explore.

Established in 1987, this museum promotes works of young artists and also encourages their creativity. They organise various projects.

Have a break from all the wine tasting and enter the extraordinary property filled with large pieces of contemporary art scattered all over.

Located in Yountville, California, the Napa Valley Museum is a cultural institution that showcases the history, culture, and environment of the Napa Valley region. The museum is a hub for the creative expressions of regional and local artists, offering a unique insight into the area's rich cultural heritage.

This museum is an interesting combination of art and history exhibitions. It mainly focuses on the period after World War II.

Interested in local art? Then this gallery is for you! Wanting to purchase an art piece or just having a look - no matter what you seek, definitely pop in.

Unique exhibition space with a very vibrant concept. Definitely do not miss out on this place if you're interested in the contemporary art.

Central and South America artifacts displayed for free.

Organising several events a year, this gallery is actually one of the largest in the area. Exhibitions are international.