If you're looking for a fun and educational way to spend a day or two in Hesperia, California, look no further than the city's impressive array of museums. From exploring the history of the area's Native American tribes to admiring beautiful works of art, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we'll take a look at the best museums near Hesperia, their geo-locations, exhibit highlights, parking, and accessibility.
Victor Valley Museum & Gallery
Located just a few minutes from Hesperia, the Victor Valley Museum & Gallery is a must-visit for history buffs. Exhibits range from fossils of prehistoric animals that once roamed the region to displays about the area's mining and railroad history. One of the highlights of the museum is a replica of a Native American village, complete with a sweat lodge and a birch-bark canoe. There is ample parking and the museum is wheelchair accessible.
San Bernardino County Museum
The San Bernardino County Museum, located in Redlands, is about a 30-minute drive from Hesperia. The museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts from the region's Native American tribes and features exhibits on local geology and wildlife. One of the standout displays is a recreated Chumash village, complete with a sweat lodge and a tomol canoe. There is plenty of parking and the museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Norton Simon Museum
The Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena is a bit of a drive from Hesperia, but it's well worth the trip for art enthusiasts. The museum's collection spans over 2,000 years of art history and includes works by famous artists like Rembrandt, Degas, and Picasso. The outdoor sculpture garden is also a highlight, featuring works by Rodin and other renowned sculptors. Parking is available, but can be a bit crowded, and the museum is fully wheelchair accessible.
Getty Center
Another must-visit museum for art lovers is the Getty Center in Los Angeles, which is approximately an hour's drive from Hesperia. The museum features an impressive collection of European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts, as well as photography and contemporary art exhibits. The Getty Center also offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop location. There is ample parking available, but the museum can get crowded on weekends. The Getty Center is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
In conclusion, if you're looking to explore the cultural treasures of Hesperia and its surroundings, these museums are not to be missed. Whether you're interested in history, art, or natural history, there's something for everyone. Each museum offers ample parking and accessibility for all visitors, making it easy to spend a full day exploring the exhibits.