Visiting a museum is always a great experience. Each museum has its own characteristics, style and exhibits. The themes of museums can vary greatly from one city to another, and can range from rich history and fine art to automobiles and sports . If you’re having a hard time making a selection, check out our list of the top museums in the state of California.
California State Railroad Museum, Sacramento
Hop on a cheap flight to Sacramento and explore the biggest attraction of Old Sacramento, California State Railroad Museum. The museum is spread across 100,000-square-foot and it once served as the terminus of the Sacramento Valley and Transcontinental Railways. Today, it showcases a wide range of railroad cars and locomotives, among other attractions. The best time to visit the city is between April and May when you can enjoy pleasant temperatures and book low-cost flight deals to Sacramento.
De Young Museum, San Francisco
Rebuilt in 2005, De Young Museum is the oldest museum in San Francisco. Nestled in the beautiful Golden Gate Park, it is surrounded by exquisite flora and glittering copper exterior. It features a spectacular collection of American paintings, decorative arts and crafts and various artworks from the Americas, Oceania and Africa.
Getty Museum at the Getty Center, Los Angeles
Built in 1997 at an estimated cost of nearly $1 Billion, this Richard Meier designed museum is a stunning futuristic architectural landmark with picturesque views of the city and ocean. Highlights of the collection include Van Gogh's iconic Irises, for which Getty paid over $50 million to acquire.
Walt Disney Family Museum, San Francisco
The Walt Disney Family Museum throws light on the life and times of the Disney family . The new Presidio collection focuses on the life and career of Walt Disney. Since history is its primary feature, the museum caters more to grown-ups than children.
Oakland Aviation Museum, Oakland
Anchored next to Oakland International Airport, Oakland Aviation Museum is a must visit for any aircraft enthusiast. The museum features a great selection of important historical planes. Highlight includes a Short Bros. Solent MkIII flying boat – one among the only three remaining aircraft. The museum also features "Open Cockpit Day," where visitors can climb into the cockpit.
Tech Museum of Innovation, San Jose
The Tech Museum of Innovation aims to bring out the creator and innovator in every individual. It features over 200 hands-on exhibits offering interactive experiences that are divided in themed galleries. It focuses on topics like the latest technological advancements in the fields of genetics, microchips, virtual design, alternative energy, earth sciences and internet.
California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco
Grab a cheap airline ticket to San Francisco and explore the California Academy of Sciences. This 400,000 square feet facility is home to a museum, planetarium and an aquarium. Highlights include Rainforests of the World annex (a glass tower featuring native species from 4 countries) and an albino alligator.
While looking for the best flight deals , don’t forget to check out the special deals on the various travel portals.
Victor Martin is a Freelance Travel Writer.