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Bowers Museum: A Journey Through Global Arts and Cultures

Explore world-class art and culture at the Bowers Museum, Orange County's largest museum showcasing global art and artifacts.

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The Bowers Museum in Santa Ana is a leading Southern California cultural institution. Founded in 1936, it showcases art and artifacts from around the world, with strengths in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, Native American art, and the arts of Asia, Africa, and Oceania.

A brief summary to Bowers Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Sundays for free admission if you're a Santa Ana resident (proof of residency required).
  • Check the Bowers Museum website for a list of current and upcoming exhibitions.
  • Consider visiting the Tangata Restaurant for a delightful fusion of Pacific Rim and California cuisine.
  • Active duty military personnel receive free general admission year-round with proof of ID.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Bowers Museum is located at the corner of 20th and Main Streets in Santa Ana. It's easily accessible from the 5 freeway (Main St. South exit) and minutes from the 57, 55, and 22 freeways. Parking is available directly north of the museum for $6.99. In case of overflow, a lot south of the museum on 20th Street is also available. Metered street parking is available nearby.

  • Public Transport

    The Bowers Museum is accessible via public transportation. The OCTA bus number 53 services the museum and Kidseum. Metrolink and Amtrak trains stop at the Anaheim Station (3.5 miles away) and the Santa Ana Station (1.7 miles away). From Santa Ana Station, connect to Bus #83 to reach the museum. A Metrolink $10 Weekend Day Pass is available for system-wide travel on Saturdays or Sundays. Bus fare is approximately $2 per ride.

  • Walking

    From downtown Santa Ana, the Bowers Museum is a few blocks north on Main Street. From the intersection of 4th and Main Streets, walk north for approximately 1 mile. The museum will be on your right. Consider exploring restaurants near 4th Street Market before or after your visit.

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Discover more about Bowers Museum

The Bowers Museum, located in Santa Ana, California, enriches lives through diverse arts and cultures. Founded in 1936 by Charles and Ada Bowers, the museum has grown into one of Orange County's largest, boasting over 100,000 objects in its permanent collection. The museum's architecture itself is noteworthy, with a Mission Revival-style building dating back to 1932. Over the years, the museum has expanded, adding wings to accommodate its growing collections and programs. Today, visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, including Ancient Arts of China, Art of the Pacific Islands, and First Californians, each offering a glimpse into different world cultures. The Bowers Museum also hosts special exhibitions organized in partnership with renowned institutions worldwide. Beyond its collections, the Bowers Museum offers a variety of activities, including lectures, workshops, film series, and family festivals. The Kidseum, an interactive children's museum, provides art and cultural programs for younger audiences. Visitors can also enjoy dining at the Tangata Restaurant, which serves Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine.

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