Eastern California Museum: A Window to the Eastern Sierra
Explore the rich history and culture of the Eastern Sierra at the Eastern California Museum in Independence, California.
The Eastern California Museum in Independence preserves and showcases the rich history and culture of Inyo County and the Eastern Sierra, from Death Valley to Mono Lake. Founded in 1928, the museum features exhibits on Native American life, the Los Angeles Aqueduct, mining history, and the Manzanar War Relocation Center.
A brief summary to Eastern California Museum
- 155 N Grant St, Independence, California, 93526, US
- +1760-878-0258
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
- The museum is closed on Mondays and county holidays.
- Visit the Mary DeDecker Native Plant Garden on the museum grounds.
- Check out the online collections gallery for access to over 10,000 items.
Getting There
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Walking
The Eastern California Museum is located at 155 N Grant St in Independence. From the Inyo County Courthouse, walk north on Edwards Street, then turn right onto N Grant Street. The museum will be on your left. This is a short walk within the town of Independence and requires no additional costs.
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Public Transport
The Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) provides bus service to Independence via the 395 Route. From Lone Pine or Bishop, take the 395 Route to the Independence - Court House stop at 168 N Edwards St. From the bus stop, walk north on Edwards Street, then turn right onto N Grant Street. The museum will be on your left. A one-way fare from Lone Pine to Independence is approximately $3.50.
Discover more about Eastern California Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Site of Putnam's Cabin (California Historical Landmark No. 223)
0.4 km
Explore Putnam's Cabin, a California Historical Landmark, and immerse yourself in the rich history of early settlers in Independence, California.
Alabama Hills
23.3 km
Explore the otherworldly landscape of the Alabama Hills, a geological wonder and iconic filming location nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada near Lone Pine, California.
Gravesite of the 1872 Lone Pine Earthquake Victims California Historical Landmark #507
23.7 km
Discover the poignant history of the 1872 Lone Pine Earthquake Victims at this historical landmark, set against the stunning backdrop of California's Sierra Nevada.
Saline Valley Warm Springs
39.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Saline Valley Warm Springs in Death Valley National Park, a hidden gem with therapeutic hot springs and breathtaking desert views.
Mt Kaweah
39.2 km
Conquer Mount Kaweah, the Sierra Nevada's challenging giant, for unparalleled panoramic views and a true wilderness experience within Sequoia National Park.
California Historical Landmark 752: Owens Lake Silver-Lead Furnace
40.8 km
Explore the Owens Lake Silver-Lead Furnace, a historical landmark that reveals California's mining legacy amidst stunning natural beauty.
Kaweah Gap
41.3 km
Hike through the majestic Kaweah Gap in Sequoia National Park, a gateway to the High Sierra's remote beauty, offering challenging trails and unforgettable panoramic views.
Bristlecone Pine Information and Historic Landmark
42.0 km
Explore the ancient wonder of Bristlecone Pines at this historic landmark in Big Pine, California, and immerse yourself in nature's timeless beauty.
Precipice Lake
42.3 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Precipice Lake in Sequoia National Park: a challenging High Sierra Trail hike to breathtaking alpine scenery and iconic Ansel Adams views.
Pear Lake Winter Hut
46.9 km
Escape to a winter wonderland at Pear Lake Winter Hut in Sequoia National Park, offering a rustic backcountry experience for seasoned adventurers amidst breathtaking alpine scenery.
Alta Peak
47.3 km
Conquer Alta Peak in Sequoia National Park for unparalleled panoramic views of the Great Western Divide and the vast San Joaquin Valley on a challenging yet rewarding hike.
High Sierra Camp, LLC
47.3 km
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Tokopah Falls
48.4 km
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Upper Monarch Lake
50.4 km
Hike to a stunning alpine lake in Sequoia National Park's Mineral King, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness, for an unforgettable Sierra Nevada experience.
Tokopah Trailhead
51.2 km
Hike to the stunning 1,200-foot Tokopah Falls in Sequoia National Park, a moderate 3.4-mile trail through granite cliffs and lush forests along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mobius Arch
22.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mobius Arch in Lone Pine, California, where nature's artistry meets stunning mountain vistas.
Mobius Arch Loop Trailhead
22.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and unique geological wonders at Mobius Arch Loop Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in California's Sierra Nevada.
Inyo National Forest
22.6 km
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Museum of Western Film History
25.7 km
Explore the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine, California, and journey through the iconic legacy of Western cinema with captivating exhibits and memorabilia.
Eastern Sierra Visitor Center
28.1 km
Explore the Eastern Sierra Visitor Center for essential information and breathtaking landscapes in California's stunning natural beauty.
Sequoia-Kings Canyon Wilderness
31.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Sequoia-Kings Canyon Wilderness, a nature preserve filled with towering sequoias, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife in California.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
33.7 km
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Roaring River Falls
37.2 km
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Cedar Grove Pack Station
40.9 km
Explore Kings Canyon National Park on horseback with guided trail rides and pack trips from Cedar Grove Pack Station. Open seasonally.
Jennie Lakes Wilderness
43.4 km
Discover alpine beauty in Sequoia National Forest's Jennie Lakes Wilderness: hiking, camping, and stunning Sierra Nevada scenery await!
Cerro Gordo Ghost Town
46.8 km
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Grizzly Falls Picnic Area
48.1 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Grizzly Falls Picnic Area, a perfect picnic spot with stunning waterfalls and scenic trails in California.
Grizzly Falls
48.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grizzly Falls in Cedar Grove, California, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Monarch Wilderness
49.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and outdoor adventures at Monarch Wilderness in Sierra, California, a perfect escape for nature lovers.
Lodgepole Visitor Center
51.9 km
Explore the majestic beauty of Sequoia National Park at Lodgepole Visitor Center, your gateway to the giant sequoias and breathtaking landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Lodgepole Campground
51.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Lodgepole Campground in Sequoia National Park – where nature meets adventure in California's Sierra Nevada.
Stony Creek Lodge
58.7 km
Experience rustic charm at Stony Creek Lodge in Sequoia National Park - your perfect retreat into nature's breathtaking beauty.
Montecito Sequoia Lodge
60.7 km
Discover the serenity of Montecito Sequoia Lodge nestled in Sequoia National Park – your gateway to outdoor adventures and natural beauty.
Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins
66.9 km
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The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
67.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of fine dining and cozy lodging at The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge near Sequoia National Park.
John Muir Lodge
67.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of John Muir Lodge in Kings Canyon National Park—your gateway to majestic landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Grant Grove Restaurant
68.0 km
Experience delicious American cuisine amidst the majestic beauty of Sequoia National Park at Grant Grove Restaurant.
River View Grill & Bar
73.4 km
Discover River View Grill & Bar in Three Rivers: A perfect blend of scenic views and delectable American cuisine awaits you!
Tony's Taverna On Wheels
73.6 km
Discover delicious Mediterranean flavors at Tony's Taverna On Wheels in Three Rivers – a must-visit culinary experience for every traveler.
Rio Sierra Riverhouse
74.0 km
Discover tranquility at Rio Sierra Riverhouse - your gateway to adventure near Sequoia National Park in Three Rivers, California.
Pupusas La Sabrosa Three Rivers
74.3 km
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Ol Buckaroo
74.5 km
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Baker Mountain House
75.5 km
Experience delectable dining at Baker Mountain House in Badger, California—where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Pizza Factory
75.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Pizza Factory in Three Rivers – savor delicious pizzas and authentic Italian cuisine near Sequoia National Park.
Casa Mendoza Mexican Restaurant
75.8 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Mendoza in Three Rivers—where vibrant flavors meet stunning scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lodgepole Market & Grill
51.9 km
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Grant Grove Gift Shop
68.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Grant Grove Gift Shop, your perfect stop in Sequoia National Park for memorable gifts.
Grant Grove Market
68.0 km
Discover the delightful Grant Grove Market, a grocery store nestled in Sequoia National Park, offering local snacks and essentials for every adventurer.
Totem Market & Gifts
68.5 km
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Reimers Candies & Gifts
73.3 km
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Jerky This!
73.3 km
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Shell
74.4 km
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Three Rivers Market
74.4 km
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Sequoia Coffee Co.
74.5 km
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Sequoia Souveniers
74.5 km
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Gathered
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Sierra Subs & Salad
74.5 km
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Three Rivers Mercantile
75.4 km
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Village Market
75.8 km
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Kaweah General Store
76.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lake Canyon Ranch
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Serrano's Mexican Restaurant
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Panamint Springs Restaurant
83.4 km
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