All industrial & heritage museums to visit in California

Explore the impact of industry on society at 68 industrial heritage museums in California. These museums showcase the history of manufacturing, technology, and labor.

Are you curious about the history of industry and innovation? These are the top industrial heritage museums in California:

  1. Exploratorium1

    Exploratorium

     San Francisco, CA
    The 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.
  2. Cable Car Museum2

    Cable Car Museum

     San Francisco, CA
    The 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.
  3. RMS Queen Mary3

    RMS Queen Mary

     Long Beach, CA
    The 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.
  4. United States Lightship Relief4

    United States Lightship Relief

     Oakland, CA
    The 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.
  5. Computer History Museum5

    Computer History Museum

     Mountain View, CA
    The 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.
  6. Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 306

    Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30

     Los Angeles, CA
    Fire 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.
  7. Maritime Museum - Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building7

    Maritime Museum - Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building

     San Francisco, CA
    The 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.
  8. California Route 66 Museum8

    California Route 66 Museum

     Victorville, CA
    The 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.
  9. California State Railroad Museum9

    California State Railroad Museum

     Sacramento, CA
    The 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.
  10. Intel Museum10

    Intel Museum

     Santa Clara, CA
    The 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.
  11. San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum11

    San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

     San Luis Obispo, CA
    The 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.
  12. The HP Garage12

    The HP Garage

     Palo Alto, CA
    The 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.
  13. Wells Fargo History Museum13

    Wells Fargo History Museum

     San Francisco, CA
    Built 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.
  14. Point Cabrillo Light14

    Point Cabrillo Light

     Mendocino, CA
    Point 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.
  15. Southern California Railway Museum15

    Southern California Railway Museum

     Perris, CA
    The 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.
  16. Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve16

    Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve

     Antioch, CA
    The 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.
  17. Port Hueneme Lighthouse17

    Port Hueneme Lighthouse

     Port Hueneme, CA
    The 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.
  18. Lomita Railroad Museum18

    Lomita Railroad Museum

     Lomita, CA
    The 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.
  19. Golden Gate Railroad Museum19

    Golden Gate Railroad Museum

     Sonoma, CA
    The 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.
  20. RailGiants Train Museum20

    RailGiants Train Museum

     Pomona, CA
    The 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.
  21. Niles Depot Museum21

    Niles Depot Museum

     Fremont, CA
    The 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.
  22. Rubel Castle22

    Rubel Castle

     Glendora, CA
    Rubel 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.
  23. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum23

    Pacific Southwest Railway Museum

     Campo, CA
    The 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.
  24. Museum of Neon Art24

    Museum of Neon Art

     Glendale, CA
    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.
  25. Preston Castle25

    Preston Castle

     Ione, CA
    The 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.
  26. Kelso Depot26

    Kelso Depot

     Essex, CA
    The 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.
  27. Plumas-Eureka State Park27

    Plumas-Eureka State Park

     Blairsden, CA
    Plumas-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.
  28. Poway-Midland Railroad28

    Poway-Midland Railroad

     Poway, CA
    The 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.
  29. International Printing Museum29

    International Printing Museum

     Carson, CA
    The 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.
  30. Niles Canyon Railway30

    Niles Canyon Railway

     Sunol, CA
    The 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.
  31. San Francisco Railway Museum31

    San Francisco Railway Museum

     San Francisco, CA
    The 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. 32

    Cerro Gordo Mines

     Keeler, CA
    Discover the life of miners in the ghost town comprising of several historical buildings. Perfect place for taking pictures.
  33. Old Plaza Firehouse33

    Old Plaza Firehouse

     Los Angeles, CA
    The 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.
  34. Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum34

    Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum

     Vista, CA
    The 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.
  35. Western America Railroad Museum35

    Western America Railroad Museum

     Barstow, CA
    The 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.
  36. Museum of American Heritage36

    Museum of American Heritage

     Palo Alto, CA
    The 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.
  37. Craftsmanship Museum37

    Craftsmanship Museum

     Carlsbad, CA
    The 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.
  38. Hathaway Ranch Museum38

    Hathaway Ranch Museum

     Santa Fe Springs, CA
    The 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.
  39. South Bay Historical Railroad Society Museum39

    South Bay Historical Railroad Society Museum

     Santa Clara, CA
    The 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.
  40. Feather River Rail Society - Western Pacific Railroad Museum40

    Feather River Rail Society - Western Pacific Railroad Museum

     Portola, CA
    The 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.
  41. Western Railway Museum41

    Western Railway Museum

     Suisun City, CA
    The 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.
  42. Tuolumne County Museum & History Research Center42

    Tuolumne County Museum & History Research Center

     Sonora, CA
    The 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
  43. American Bookbinders Museum43

    American Bookbinders Museum

     San Francisco, CA
    The 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.
  44. Nike Missile Site SF-8844

    Nike Missile Site SF-88

     San Francisco, CA
    SF-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.
  45. Mullin Automotive Museum45

    Mullin Automotive Museum

     Oxnard, CA
    The 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.
  46. Fort Humboldt Museum46

    Fort Humboldt Museum

     Eureka, CA
    Fort 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.
  47. Kern County Museum and Pioneer Village47

    Kern County Museum and Pioneer Village

     Bakersfield, CA
    The 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.
  48. Pacific Pinball Museum48

    Pacific Pinball Museum

     Alameda, CA
    The 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.
  49. United States Navy Seabee Museum49

    United States Navy Seabee Museum

     Port Hueneme, CA
    The 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.
  50. California Oil Museum50

    California Oil Museum

     Santa Paula, CA
    The 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.
  51. Borax Visitor Center Foundation51

    Borax Visitor Center Foundation

     Boron, CA
    The 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.
  52. Kelley House Museum52

    Kelley House Museum

     Mendocino, CA
    The 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.
  53. Perris Valley Historical Museum53

    Perris Valley Historical Museum

     Perris, CA
    The 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.
  54. Wings of History Air Museum54

    Wings of History Air Museum

     San Martin, CA
    The 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.
  55. Ferndale Museum55

    Ferndale Museum

     Ferndale, CA
    The 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. 56

    Spaulding Wooden Boat Center

     Sausalito, CA
    The 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.
  57. WWII/Korea LVT Museum57

    WWII/Korea LVT Museum

     Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, CA
    The 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. 58

    GIA Museum

     Carlsbad, CA
    The 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. 59

    Academy of Art University Automobile Museum

     San Francisco, CA
    The 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. 60

    DigiBarn Computer Museum

     Boulder Creek, CA
    The 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. 61

    Paul Gray PC Museum

     Claremont, CA
    The 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. 62

    Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad & Transportation Museum

     Nevada City, CA
    The 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. 63

    Gold Bug Park

     Placerville, CA
    Part of a ghost town - explore the two abandoned mines, the museum and of course the town itself. A fun day out.
  64. 64

    Agricultural History Project

     Interlaken, CA
    Those who are interested in agriculture will be amazed by this unique museum! See various machines and learn about technologies!
  65. 65

    San Francisco Fire Department Museum

     San Francisco, CA
    This small museum presents the history of San Francisco firefighters through various memorabilia including vintage fire engines.
  66. 66

    Gilman Ranch and Wagon Museum

     Banning, CA
    The 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. 67

    McCloud Heritage Junction Museum

     McCloud, CA
  68. 68

    California Foundry History Museum

     McClellan Park, CA
    This museum carefully preserves an interesting collection of memorabilia documenting the Gold Rush. Open only by appointment.