Are you curious about the history of industry and innovation? These are the top industrial heritage museums in California:
1Exploratorium
San Francisco, CAThe Exploratorium is a museum of science, technology, and arts in San Francisco, United States. It is characterized as a 'mad scientist's playground, a scientific funhouse, and an experimental laboratory, all in one.' The participatory nature of its exhibits and its self-identification as a center for informal learning has led it to be cited as the prototype for participatory museums worldwide. 2Cable Car Museum
San Francisco, CAThe Cable Car Museum is located in the Nob Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, California. This museum is free to enter, making it an accessible option for tourists of all budgets. It offers a unique insight into the history and workings of the city's iconic cable car system. 3RMS Queen Mary
Long Beach, CAThe RMS Queen Mary was a trans-Atlantic passenger ship that was part of the Cunard Line. It sailed from 1936 to 1967, making voyages between Southampton, Cherbourg, and New York. This historical ship offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur and elegance of trans-Atlantic travel during its time. 4United States Lightship Relief
Oakland, CAThe Relief (WLV-605) is a former lightship of the United States Coast Guard that now serves as a museum ship in Oakland, California. This historical vessel was built in 1950 and is one of the few surviving lightships, making it a unique attraction for those interested in maritime history. It was specifically built for the United States Coast Guard, adding to its historical significance. 5Computer History Museum
Mountain View, CAThe museum currently hosts three unique exhibits on the history of computing. "Mastering the Game" provides a history of computer chess, "Innovations in the Valley" offers a look at the companies and people of Silicon Valley, and a Difference Engine exhibit showcases a machine designed by Charles Babbage in the 1840s and built by the London Science Museum. These exhibits offer a deep dive into the history and evolution of computing. 6Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30
Los Angeles, CAFire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30 is a historic fire station and engine company located in the South Los Angeles area of Los Angeles, California. This site holds significant historical value as it was one of the first all-black segregated fire stations in Los Angeles. It was segregated in 1924 and remained so until 1956 when the Los Angeles Fire Department was integrated. 7Maritime Museum - Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building
San Francisco, CAThe San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, located in San Francisco, California, is a comprehensive destination for maritime history enthusiasts. The park features a collection of historic vessels, a visitor center, a maritime museum, and a library/research facility. These facilities provide a deep dive into the maritime history of the region and offer a unique experience for visitors. 8California Route 66 Museum
Victorville, CAThe California Route 66 Museum, located in Victorville, California, is a place dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the iconic Route 66. The museum is situated in the historic part of the city and offers a deep dive into the past of this famous highway. 9California State Railroad Museum
Sacramento, CAThe California State Railroad Museum is situated in the Old Sacramento State Historic Park at 111 I Street, Sacramento. This location is easily accessible and offers a rich historical context, making it an ideal destination for those interested in the history of railroads and their impact on society. 10Intel Museum
Santa Clara, CAThe Intel Museum, a hub of technological history and innovation, is situated at Intel's headquarters in Santa Clara, California, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors a chance to explore the world of Intel and semiconductor technology in a comprehensive and engaging manner. 11San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum
San Luis Obispo, CAThe San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum is a significant institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the railroad history of California, particularly the Central Coast. The museum achieves this through the collection, restoration, display, and operation of historic railroad equipment. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of California's railroads and understand their impact on the region's development. 12The HP Garage
Palo Alto, CAThe HP Garage, located at 367 Addison Avenue in Palo Alto, California, is a private museum where the renowned company Hewlett-Packard (HP) was founded. This site is of significant historical importance as it marks the birthplace of one of the world's leading technology companies. 13Wells Fargo History Museum
San Francisco, CABuilt on the site of former Wells Fargo Bank, this museum features various exhibits on the history of banking. The exhibition is both interesting and educational - drive a stagecoach or see how vintage bank machines worked. 14Point Cabrillo Light
Mendocino, CAPoint Cabrillo Light is a lighthouse situated between Cape Mendocino and Point Arena, in Mendocino County, California, USA. It is managed by the American Coast Guard, and the lighthouses in the state of California are maintained by District 11 of the Coast Guard. This location offers a unique opportunity to explore a historic lighthouse while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery of California. 15Southern California Railway Museum
Perris, CAThe Southern California Railway Museum, previously known as the Orange Empire Railway Museum, is a railroad museum located in Perris, California, United States. It was founded in 1956 and has since been dedicated to preserving and showcasing Southern California's railroad history. The museum houses the world's largest collection of Pacific Electric Railway rolling stock, much of which was rescued from scrapyards. 16Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve
Antioch, CAThe Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve is a significant area located in Contra Costa County, California. It is under the administration of the East Bay Regional Parks District. This preserve is a testament to the region's rich history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. 17Port Hueneme Lighthouse
Port Hueneme, CAThe Point Hueneme Lighthouse is a notable landmark in Ventura County, California. It stands as a 48-foot-high tower, built in the Art Deco style in 1940. The buff-colored tower is located on a fog-signal building on the Santa Barbara Channel at the Port of Hueneme. This lighthouse is a significant part of the area's history and offers a unique architectural experience for visitors. 18Lomita Railroad Museum
Lomita, CAThe Lomita Railroad Museum, located in Lomita, California, is a unique institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of railroads in California. The museum offers a deep dive into the state's railroad history, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that highlight the significant role railroads played in the development and growth of California. 19Golden Gate Railroad Museum
Sonoma, CAThe Golden Gate Railroad Museum (GGRM) is a non-profit organization located in California. The museum is dedicated to preserving steam and passenger railroad equipment and interpreting local railroad history. This dedication to preservation and interpretation provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about the history of railroads in the area and see historical railroad equipment up close. 20RailGiants Train Museum
Pomona, CAThe RailGiants Train Museum is a unique destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located at the Fairplex in Pomona, California, this museum is home to a collection of historic trains. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of rail travel in the United States, with the museum providing a fascinating insight into the evolution of locomotives and the role they played in the country's development. 21Niles Depot Museum
Fremont, CAThe Niles Depot Museum is situated in the Niles District of Fremont, California. It is housed in the former Southern Pacific Railroad colonnade-style passenger depot and freight depot, both of which were built in 1901. This location offers a unique glimpse into the history of the area's railroads. 22Rubel Castle
Glendora, CARubel Castle, also known as Rubelia, is a unique landmark located in Glendora, California. It was established by Michael Clarke Rubel and is currently owned and operated by the Glendora Historical Society. This castle is a testament to Rubel's creativity and dedication, and it stands as a significant part of Glendora's history. 23Pacific Southwest Railway Museum
Campo, CAThe Pacific Southwest Railway Museum is a unique destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs. Located in Campo, California, the museum is situated on the San Diego & Arizona Eastern Railway line. This location provides a rich historical context for the museum and its exhibits, offering visitors a chance to learn about the region's railway history and its impact on the development of the area. 24Museum of Neon Art
Glendale, CAThe 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. 25Preston Castle
Ione, CAThe Preston School of Industry, also known as Preston Castle, is located in Ione, California, in Amador County. It was originally a reform school, a place where minors under the guardianship of the state were sent for rehabilitation. The institution has a rich history and is considered one of the oldest and best-known reform schools in the United States. 26Kelso Depot
Essex, CAThe Kelso Depot, Restaurant and Employees Hotel, now also known as the Mojave National Preserve Visitors Center, is a historic site located in the Mojave Desert. It is situated within the National Park Service Mojave National Preserve, on Kelso Cima Road at the junction of Kelbaker Road in Kelso, California. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of history while enjoying the natural beauty of the desert. 27Plumas-Eureka State Park
Blairsden, CAPlumas-Eureka State Park is a state park in California, situated in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range in Plumas County. This park is a significant part of California's natural and historical heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's rich past and diverse landscapes. 28Poway-Midland Railroad
Poway, CAThe Poway–Midland Railroad is a heritage railroad that is situated in Old Poway Park in Poway, California. This location offers a unique opportunity for tourists to experience a piece of history and enjoy a scenic ride through the park. The railroad is easily accessible and provides a unique attraction for those visiting the area. 29International Printing Museum
Carson, CAThe International Printing Museum, located in the suburbs of Los Angeles, is home to one of the largest collections of antique printing presses in the United States. This extensive collection includes a replica Gutenberg press, the third oldest printing press made in America, and numerous Linotype machines. The museum's collection has grown significantly since its establishment in 1988, thanks to significant donations and acquisitions. 30Niles Canyon Railway
Sunol, CAThe Niles Canyon Railway (NCRy) is a museum railway that offers a unique journey through history. It operates on the route of the first US transcontinental railway, covering a distance of 14 kilometers. The journey starts from Sunol, California, passes through the scenic Niles Canyon, and ends in Fremont, California, located on the eastern bay of San Francisco. This railway line has been meticulously rebuilt to provide an authentic experience of the past. 31San Francisco Railway Museum
San Francisco, CAThe San Francisco Railway Museum is situated in the South of Market area of San Francisco. This location is easily accessible and is in close proximity to other popular tourist destinations in the city. The museum's location makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.- 32
Cerro Gordo Mines
Keeler, CADiscover the life of miners in the ghost town comprising of several historical buildings. Perfect place for taking pictures. 33Old Plaza Firehouse
Los Angeles, CAThe Old Plaza Firehouse, built in 1884, holds the distinction of being the oldest fire station in Los Angeles. This historic building, located near Olvera Street in the Los Angeles Plaza Historic District, offers a unique glimpse into the city's past. 34Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum
Vista, CAThe Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum (AGSEM) is a living-history museum that was established in 1969. It is situated on a 55-acre piece of land owned by the county, located on the outskirts of Vista, California. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of gas and steam engines in a hands-on environment. 35Western America Railroad Museum
Barstow, CAThe Western America Railroad Museum is situated in the city of Barstow, California. It is managed and operated by a non-profit organization, ensuring that the history and heritage of railroading in the Pacific Southwest is preserved and shared with the public. 36Museum of American Heritage
Palo Alto, CAThe Museum of American Heritage, located in Palo Alto, California, is a unique institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing electrical and mechanical technology and inventions spanning from the 1750s to the 1950s. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of technology over three centuries, making it an interesting destination for those interested in history and technology. 37Craftsmanship Museum
Carlsbad, CAThe Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum, also known as the Craftmanship Museum, is a unique institution situated in Carlsbad, California. This museum is dedicated to the collection and display of carefully crafted objects made from metal and wood. It is a place where visitors can appreciate the intricate details and exceptional craftsmanship of these objects. 38Hathaway Ranch Museum
Santa Fe Springs, CAThe Hathaway Ranch & Oil Museum, located in Santa Fe Springs, California, is a unique institution that showcases the history of five generations of the Hathaway family and the broader Southern California region. Visitors can explore the rich heritage of this family and their significant impact on the area's development. 39South Bay Historical Railroad Society Museum
Santa Clara, CAThe South Bay Historical Railroad Society is a significant entity in Santa Clara, California. It operates the Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History, which is located in the Santa Clara Depot. In addition to the museum, the society also manages the Santa Clara Tower and two other buildings. These sites offer a comprehensive insight into the history and development of railroads in the region. 40Feather River Rail Society - Western Pacific Railroad Museum
Portola, CAThe museum's collection includes twenty-nine diesel locomotives, one electric locomotive, and one operational steam locomotive as of April 2022. It also houses fifteen passenger cars, four of which are from the famous California Zephyr train that operated from 1949 to 1970. Additionally, the museum has numerous freight and maintenance cars, as well as eighteen cabooses. 41Western Railway Museum
Suisun City, CAThe Western Railway Museum is situated in Solano County, California. It is built along the former mainline of the Sacramento Northern Railway. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of rail transportation in the region. 42Tuolumne County Museum & History Research Center
Sonora, CAThe Tuolumne County Museum and Historical Society was established in 1956 to preserve, protect and perpetuate the colorful history of one of California’s original counties. The Tuolumne County History Collection is a large volume of historical information consisting of the memories and images of the 43American Bookbinders Museum
San Francisco, CAThe American Bookbinders Museum, located in San Francisco, California, is a small, not-for-profit institution dedicated to the artistry, history, and craft of bookbinding. This unique museum provides an in-depth look into the intricate process of bookbinding, showcasing its evolution and significance throughout history. 44Nike Missile Site SF-88
San Francisco, CASF-88, located in the Marin Headlands north of San Francisco, California, is a former Nike Missile launch site at Fort Barry. This historical site offers a unique glimpse into the past, specifically the Cold War era. It was initially opened in 1954 with the purpose of protecting the population and military installations of the San Francisco Bay Area from potential Soviet bomber aircraft attacks. 45Mullin Automotive Museum
Oxnard, CAThe Mullin Automotive Museum, located in Oxnard, California, is recognized as one of the top ten most significant museums for rare and prestigious collector's cars globally. Established in 2010 by American billionaire Peter Mullin, the museum has gained international acclaim for its extensive collection and dedication to preserving automotive history. 46Fort Humboldt Museum
Eureka, CAFort Humboldt State Historic Park, located in Eureka, California, offers a rich historical experience for visitors. The park's displays provide insights into the former U.S. Army fort that was operational from 1853 to 1870. Additionally, the park interprets the interactions between European Americans and Native Americans during the same period. Visitors can also explore exhibits featuring logging equipment and the local narrow gauge railroad history of the region. 47Kern County Museum and Pioneer Village
Bakersfield, CAThe Kern County Museum, situated in Bakersfield, California, is a history museum that primarily focuses on the history of Kern County. This museum provides a comprehensive insight into the county's past, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in learning about the region's heritage. 48Pacific Pinball Museum
Alameda, CAThe Pacific Pinball Museum, located in Alameda, California, is a unique institution that traces the history of pinball machines back to 1879. This museum offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of pinball machines, providing a fascinating journey through time for visitors. 49United States Navy Seabee Museum
Port Hueneme, CAThe Seabee, an acronym for Construction Battalions, is a specialized unit in the United States Navy that focuses on civil engineering and construction. This unit was created during World War II and played a significant role in the Pacific War. The Seabees were responsible for building military infrastructures, most of which were in Asia and the Pacific. 50California Oil Museum
Santa Paula, CAThe Santa Paula Hardware Company Building, also known as the Union Oil Company Building, holds a significant place in history as the birthplace of the Union Oil Company, which was established on October 17, 1890. This historical importance adds a unique charm to the building, making it an interesting site for tourists who are keen on exploring the roots of the oil industry in California. 51Borax Visitor Center Foundation
Boron, CAThe Rio Tinto Boron Mine, located in Boron, California, holds the distinction of being the largest open-pit mine and the largest borax mine in the world. It is responsible for producing nearly half of the world's borates. This significant production capacity makes it a key player in the global borate industry. 52Kelley House Museum
Mendocino, CAThe Kelley House Museum is a historical site situated in Mendocino, California. Its exact location is 45007 Albion Street. This museum is a significant part of the town's history and offers a unique insight into the past. 53Perris Valley Historical Museum
Perris, CAThe Perris Depot, a railroad depot built in 1892, is a significant historical site in Perris, California. It was constructed to replace a previous wooden structure at the same site on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway line, originally the California Southern Railroad. The depot was built by J.W. Nance, a Perris developer, and was designed by Benjamin Franklin Levet, Sr., son-in-law to Fred T. Perris. The depot served both passenger traffic and the considerable agricultural traffic associated with the farmlands of the Perris Valley. 54Wings of History Air Museum
San Martin, CAThe Wings of History is an aviation museum located in San Martin, California. It is a nonprofit organization that operates primarily through the generous donations and membership dues of its patrons. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of aviation, providing an educational and engaging experience for all visitors. 55Ferndale Museum
Ferndale, CAThe Ferndale Museum, a nonprofit organization situated in Ferndale, California, is a repository of artifacts, documents, and papers that trace the history of the region from the California Gold Rush era to the 1950s. One of the unique features of the museum is an active Bosch-Omori seismograph, which adds a scientific dimension to the historical exhibits.- 56
Spaulding Wooden Boat Center
Sausalito, CAThe Spaulding Marine Center, previously known as the Spaulding Wooden Boat Center, is a living museum located in Sausalito, California. This unique center offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the era when craftsmen and sailors used traditional skills to build and sail classic wooden boats on the San Francisco Bay. The center is a testament to the maritime heritage of the area, showcasing the art of wooden boat building and sailing. 57WWII/Korea LVT Museum
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, CAThe WWII/Korea LVT Museum is situated in a Quonset hut-style building at Camp Del Mar, within the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in California. It is conveniently located near the Assault Amphibian School Battalion Training Command. This unique location adds to the historical ambiance of the museum, providing an authentic backdrop for the exhibits.- 58
GIA Museum
Carlsbad, CAThe Gemological Institute of America (GIA), founded in 1931 by jeweler Robert M. Shipley, is a renowned institution involved in the exploration, research, and teaching of gemstones and diamonds. It is also responsible for their evaluation. The organization is based in Carlsbad, California, making it an interesting destination for those interested in gemology and the history of gemstones. - 59
Academy of Art University Automobile Museum
San Francisco, CAThe Academy of Art University Automobile Museum is a non-profit institution situated in the vibrant city of San Francisco, California. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of automobiles, making it an interesting destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. - 60
DigiBarn Computer Museum
Boulder Creek, CAThe DigiBarn Computer Museum, located in Boulder Creek, California, is a unique destination for those interested in the history of computing. The museum is housed in a 90-year-old barn, constructed from old-growth Redwood, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This setting provides a unique backdrop for the exploration of the evolution of personal and interactive computing. - 61
Paul Gray PC Museum
Claremont, CAThe Claremont Graduate University (CGU) is a private research university located in Claremont, California. It is part of the Claremont Colleges, a consortium of five undergraduate colleges and two graduate institutions. The university is composed of seven separate units, each focusing on different areas of study. - 62
Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad & Transportation Museum
Nevada City, CAThe Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad & Transportation Museum is a transport museum and heritage railroad situated in Nevada City, California. It is a place where visitors can explore the rich history of transportation in the region, particularly the narrow gauge railroad that was operational from 1876 until 1942. - 63
Gold Bug Park
Placerville, CAPart of a ghost town - explore the two abandoned mines, the museum and of course the town itself. A fun day out. - 64
Agricultural History Project
Interlaken, CAThose who are interested in agriculture will be amazed by this unique museum! See various machines and learn about technologies! - 65
San Francisco Fire Department Museum
San Francisco, CAThis small museum presents the history of San Francisco firefighters through various memorabilia including vintage fire engines. - 66
Gilman Ranch and Wagon Museum
Banning, CAThe Gilman Ranch, located on the Bradshaw Trail in Riverside County, California, is a historic ranch and stagecoach station. This site offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history of the area and the role it played in the development of the United States. - 67
McCloud Heritage Junction Museum
McCloud, CA - 68
California Foundry History Museum
McClellan Park, CAThis museum carefully preserves an interesting collection of memorabilia documenting the Gold Rush. Open only by appointment.