California Heritage Museum: A Glimpse into California's Past
Explore California's vibrant past at the California Heritage Museum in Santa Monica, showcasing diverse exhibits from surfing to Native American culture in a landmarked 1894 house.
The California Heritage Museum, nestled in Santa Monica's charming Main Street, offers a captivating journey through the Golden State's diverse cultural heritage. Housed in the landmarked Roy Jones House, a stunning example of American Colonial Revival architecture, the museum showcases exhibits on surfing, skateboarding, Native American culture, and more, reflecting the unique spirit of California. Just a block from the beach, the museum provides a rich experience, blending history with the laid-back atmosphere of Santa Monica. With rotating exhibits, community events, and a focus on California's artistic and historical contributions, the museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the state's vibrant past and present. The museum's commitment to preserving and celebrating California's heritage makes it a valuable cultural institution and a worthwhile destination for tourists and locals alike. Don't miss the chance to explore the Golden State's legacy in this beautifully preserved historic home.
A brief summary to California Heritage Museum
- 2612 Main St, Santa Monica, Ocean Park, California, 90405, US
- +1310-392-8537
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for current exhibits and events before your visit, as they change periodically.
- Take advantage of the limited free parking available adjacent to the museum to save on parking costs.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along Main Street, exploring the nearby shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Downtown Santa Monica, take the Big Blue Bus Line 1 or Rapid 1 towards Venice. Exit at Main St. and Ocean Park Blvd. Walk south on Main St. for approximately 2 blocks. The museum will be on your left. A single ride on the Big Blue Bus costs $1.25.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
From the Santa Monica Pier, a taxi or ride-share to the California Heritage Museum will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost for a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft is $8-$12.
-
Driving
From the I-10 Freeway, exit at 4th/5th Street in Santa Monica. Head south on 4th Street, then turn left onto Ocean Park Boulevard. Turn right onto Main Street. The museum will be on your left. Limited free parking is available adjacent to the museum. Paid parking is available in nearby beach lots and at Pay Lot #11 north of Ocean Park Boulevard and Main Street. Metered street parking is also available, with rates typically around $1.25 per hour.
Discover more about California Heritage Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shotgun House
0.1 km
Discover Santa Monica's architectural heritage at the Shotgun House, a preserved 19th-century home showcasing local history and sustainable preservation in the heart of Ocean Park.
Horatio Court (Point of Interest - Architecture)
0.3 km
Discover Horatio Court in Santa Monica: An architectural masterpiece by Irving Gill, showcasing early modernist design and a commitment to simple, functional living in Ocean Park.
Parkhurst Building
0.5 km
Discover the architectural charm of the Parkhurst Building in Santa Monica, a 1927 landmark blending Mission and Spanish Revival styles, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Venice Beach Walking Tours
0.7 km
Discover the eclectic charm, stunning beaches, and vibrant art scene of Venice Beach with guided walking tours led by local experts.
Viceroy Santa Monica
0.9 km
Discover luxury at Viceroy Santa Monica, where modern elegance meets stunning ocean views in the heart of California's iconic beach city.
Venice Ale House
0.9 km
A Venice Beach gastropub offering fresh, local cuisine and craft beers in a laid-back atmosphere with boardwalk views and a commitment to sustainability.
Su Casa At Venice Beach
1.1 km
Experience beachfront bliss at Su Casa Venice Beach, offering cozy rooms, vibrant culture, and easy access to LA's iconic attractions.
City of Santa Monica
1.3 km
Experience the best of California in Santa Monica: stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exquisite dining await you.
Venice Boardwalk
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant culture and stunning coastline at Venice Boardwalk, a must-visit scenic spot in Los Angeles filled with art, food, and fun.
Santa Monica Pier Carousel
1.4 km
Experience a nostalgic ride on a beautifully restored 1922 carousel within the historic Looff Hippodrome, a National Historic Landmark on the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
1.4 km
Step back in time at the Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a beautifully restored National Historic Landmark on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of seaside amusement.
Heal the Bay Aquarium
1.4 km
Explore the wonders of the Santa Monica Bay at Heal the Bay Aquarium, where interactive exhibits and local marine life inspire ocean conservation for all ages under the iconic pier.
Santa Monica Pier Arch
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant Santa Monica Pier Arch, an iconic historical landmark representing California's coastal charm and lively beach culture.
Pacific Wheel
1.5 km
Experience breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica coastline on the world's first and only solar-powered Ferris wheel, a dazzling icon of sustainable fun.
Route 66 End of the Trail
1.5 km
Explore the historic End of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier, where adventure meets the beautiful California coastline in a vibrant, cultural hub.
Unmissable attractions to see
Santa Monica Conservancy
0.1 km
Explore the heart of Santa Monica at the Conservancy—a hub of heritage, community gardens, and historical treasures waiting to be discovered.
Santa Monica Bike Campus
0.2 km
Discover the best of Santa Monica at the Bike Campus, where cycling meets stunning coastal views and vibrant community spirit.
Barnard Way Linear Park
0.3 km
Enjoy panoramic ocean views, beach access, and recreational activities at this scenic Santa Monica park.
Dorothy Green Park
0.3 km
Explore Dorothy Green Park in Santa Monica for a perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and stunning coastal views.
Ocean View Park
0.4 km
Discover Ocean View Park, a serene coastal retreat in Santa Monica, perfect for picnics, outdoor fun, and breathtaking ocean views.
Hotchkiss Park
0.4 km
Explore Hotchkiss Park in Santa Monica, a serene escape filled with lush greenery, scenic paths, and vibrant community events by the coast.
Lifeguard Tower 26
0.4 km
Experience the iconic Lifeguard Tower 26 at Santa Monica Beach, where vibrant culture meets stunning ocean views and endless outdoor activities.
South Beach Park Playground
0.5 km
Discover fun and relaxation at South Beach Park Playground, a must-visit family destination in Santa Monica, California.
Main
0.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Main Night Club in Santa Monica, where eclectic music and vibrant crowds create unforgettable nights.
Pedal or Not Electric Bike Tours
0.6 km
Discover the stunning Santa Monica coastline with guided electric bike tours, perfect for tourists seeking adventure and scenic views.
Crescent Bay Park
0.7 km
Explore Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica: A stunning coastal park perfect for relaxation, recreation, and breathtaking ocean views.
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
0.9 km
Explore the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, a cultural hub showcasing diverse performances in a historic setting, surrounded by vibrant coastal attractions.
Historic Belmar Park
1.0 km
Explore the tranquility of Historic Belmar Park in Santa Monica, where lush landscapes meet rich local history for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
1.3 km
Discover the legacy of fitness at Original Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, where history meets health in a stunning coastal setting.
Chess Park
1.3 km
Experience the unique charm of Chess Park in Santa Monica—a seaside destination for chess lovers and beachgoers alike.
Essential places to dine
Forma Venice
0.7 km
Discover the essence of Italian cuisine at Forma Venice – where fine dining meets coastal charm in vibrant Venice Beach.
Coucou
0.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Coucou in Venice, California – where culinary artistry meets coastal charm.
Cha Cha Chicken
0.8 km
Experience authentic Jamaican flavors at Cha Cha Chicken in Santa Monica – a must-visit Caribbean restaurant for food lovers.
The Waterfront Venice
0.8 km
Experience Californian cuisine at The Waterfront Venice while enjoying stunning ocean views and vibrant beachside vibes.
Terrazza
0.8 km
Experience Terrazza in Santa Monica - where American comfort meets Mediterranean charm amidst breathtaking ocean views.
Sugar Palm Santa Monica
0.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Sugar Palm Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets exquisite dining.
Coast
0.9 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine with stunning ocean views at Coast in Santa Monica—where every meal is a celebration.
The Rose Venice
0.9 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at The Rose Venice – where flavor meets coastal charm in California.
1 Pico
0.9 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at 1 Pico in Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Capo
0.9 km
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Capo in Santa Monica - where fine dining meets stunning coastal views.
The Venice Beach Bar & Kitchen
1.0 km
Discover vibrant flavors and stunning ocean views at The Venice Beach Bar & Kitchen - your ultimate coastal dining experience.
American Beauty
1.0 km
Experience exceptional steaks and vibrant ambiance at American Beauty in Venice, California – where culinary excellence meets beachside charm.
Piccolo Santa Monica
1.0 km
Discover the rich flavors of Italy at Piccolo Santa Monica – where authentic cuisine meets vibrant coastal charm.
Cafe Gratitude
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of plant-based dining at Cafe Gratitude in Venice – where health meets taste in every dish.
Fig Tree
1.1 km
Discover Fig Tree: A culinary oasis offering delicious American cuisine with stunning ocean views on Venice Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
jAdis
0.2 km
Discover jAdis, where antique treasures meet captivating science exhibits in the heart of Santa Monica's Ocean Park.
OK Santa Monica
0.2 km
Explore OK Santa Monica, a charming gift shop brimming with unique treasures and local art that captures the spirit of Santa Monica's coastal vibe.
Lost & Found
0.4 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Lost & Found, a charming clothing store in Santa Monica's Ocean Park district, perfect for stylish souvenirs.
Venice Liberty
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Venice Liberty, the quintessential shopping experience on Ocean Front Walk in Venice, CA.
Titanic Boutique
1.0 km
Explore Titanic Boutique in Venice for unique fashion finds and local artisan treasures amidst the vibrant beach culture.
Kathmandu Boutique
1.2 km
Explore Kathmandu Boutique in Santa Monica for unique clothing and accessories inspired by Himalayan culture, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Living Libations Venice Beach Boutique - Visit by appointment only
1.4 km
Experience the art of holistic beauty at Living Libations, Venice Beach's premier destination for natural health and beauty products.
66-To-Cali
1.5 km
Explore the vibrant culture of California at 66-To-Cali, a unique gift shop in Santa Monica offering local souvenirs and trendy apparel.
Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica
1.5 km
Explore Santa Monica's Gift & Souvenirs for unique keepsakes and stylish clothes that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.
Beachcomber Gift Cart
1.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Beachcomber Gift Cart, your go-to gift shop on Santa Monica Pier.
Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop
1.5 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at the Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop, a treasure trove of coastal charm and local craftsmanship.
Oatman Rock Shop
1.5 km
Explore the unique gifts and treasures at Oatman Rock Shop, your go-to destination for souvenirs at the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Pier Gear
1.5 km
Explore Pier Gear at Santa Monica Pier for a diverse selection of unique souvenirs capturing the spirit of California's coastal charm.
UNIQLO Santa Monica Place
1.6 km
Explore modern fashion for all ages at UNIQLO Santa Monica Place, a stylish clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)
1.6 km
Explore Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and fishing supplies on the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Basement Tavern
0.1 km
Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Jameson’s Pub
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Jameson’s Pub in Santa Monica, where great food, drinks, and hospitality come together in a lively atmosphere.
Tavern on Main SM
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tavern on Main SM in Santa Monica, where delicious grill dishes and a lively bar atmosphere come together.
Library Alehouse
0.4 km
Discover Library Alehouse in Santa Monica, where American cuisine meets a cozy brewpub atmosphere filled with craft beers and literary charm.
JuneShine - Santa Monica
0.4 km
Experience the unique taste of hard kombucha in a vibrant bar atmosphere at JuneShine, Santa Monica's refreshing oasis for tourists.
The Living Room
0.9 km
Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.
Venice Beach Wines
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Venice Beach Wines, where exquisite wines meet laid-back California vibes.
The Backyard
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Backyard in Santa Monica, where crafted cocktails and coastal cuisine meet in a stunning outdoor oasis.
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
1.4 km
Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.
Neighbor
1.6 km
Experience the best of New American cuisine at Neighbor, a trendy bistro in Venice, CA, known for its innovative dishes and craft cocktails.
Lanea
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lanea, a Santa Monica cocktail bar offering delicious Mexican cuisine and live music in a chic beach setting.
Bar Chloe
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Bar Chloe, Santa Monica's trendy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Ye Olde King's Head
1.9 km
Discover the charm of British cuisine at Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, a brewpub and tea house offering a delightful culinary experience.
Bodega Wine Bar
1.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan pizzas, fine wines, and a cozy ambiance at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, California.
Winston House
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Winston House in Venice, CA, featuring live music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.
