California Museum of History

Nestled in Sacramento, the California Museum is the state's official home for history. It showcases the diverse stories, groundbreaking innovations, and transformative events that define the Golden State's unique identity.

Why Visit California Museum of History?

 Gold Rush to Tech Boom: Trace 300+ years of transformative history

 Interactive Storytelling: Touchscreen displays, rare artifacts & immersive exhibits

 Cultural Mosaic: Celebrating California’s diverse communities

 Air-Conditioned Comfort: Perfect for hot Sacramento days

What to Expect in California Museum of History?

1. Must-See Exhibits

• "Gold Fever!": Pan for (fool’s) gold at a replica mining camp
• California Hall of Fame: Walk alongside Walt Disney’s Oscars & Sally Ride’s spacesuit
• Women Inspire: Tribute to trailblazers like Kamala Harris and Julia Morgan

2. Special Features

• Augmented Reality Tours: Point your phone to see historic scenes overlay modern CA
• "My California" Booth: Record your own CA memory for the archives
• Rotating Displays: 30% of exhibits change seasonally.

How to Reach the California Museum

• Light Rail: Get off at the Archives Plaza station, just one block away.
• Car: Use nearby public parking garages at 10th & L Street or 11th & L Street, as the museum has no dedicated lot.

Pro Tips for Visitors

 Best Time: Weekday mornings (school groups arrive after 11 AM)

 Save Money: $2 discount with Sacramento public transit ticket

 Photo Hotspot: Replica Spanish Mission façade & giant redwood slice

 Kid-Friendly: Scavenger hunts available at front desk

Visitor Essentials

 Address: 1020 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814

 Hours: Wed-Sat 10 AM-5 PM, Sun 12-5 PM

Parking: $5 all-day at 10th & O garage (2-min walk)

Nearby Attraction and Where to Eat in California Museum of History

• California State Capitol Museum: An absolute must-do. Tour the beautiful historic capitol building, see the governor's office, and wander through the expansive Capitol Park with its gardens and memorials. It's directly across the street from the museum's park-side entrance.
• Sacramento Central Library: A beautiful and modern library right next door to the museum, perfect for a quick peek.
• Café at the California Museum: Check if their internal café is open for quick snacks and coffee.
• Capitol Garage: A local institution known for hearty breakfast and lunch, right near the capitol (5-min walk).