Best Museums Near Pasadena, California: A Guide to Art and Culture

If you're planning a trip to Pasadena, California, you should make time to visit some of the best museums in the area. Pasadena is home to several world-class museums that showcase art, science, and history. In this article, we'll give you a rundown of the best museums near Pasadena, including their geo-locations, exhibit highlights, and parking and accessibility information.

Norton Simon Museum

Located just a few miles away from downtown Pasadena, the Norton Simon Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum has an impressive collection of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, including works by Van Gogh, Degas, and Rembrandt. The museum's Asian art collection is also worth exploring, featuring sculptures, paintings, and ceramics from India, China, and Japan. The museum is open Wednesday to Monday, and parking is free. Accessibility is provided by wheelchair ramps and elevators.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

The Huntington Library is a unique blend of art, history, and nature. The museum features an impressive collection of American and European art, including the famous "Blue Boy" painting by Thomas Gainsborough. The library also houses rare books and manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible. In addition, the botanical gardens are a must-see, with over a dozen themed gardens, including a Japanese garden and a desert garden. The Huntington is open Wednesday to Monday, and parking is available for a fee. Accessibility is provided by wheelchair ramps and elevators.

Kidspace Children's Museum

Located in Pasadena's Brookside Park, the Kidspace Children's Museum is a fun and educational destination for families with young children. The museum has interactive exhibits that encourage children to learn through play, such as a climbing wall, an outdoor splash pad, and a pretend market. The museum also offers educational programs, including STEM workshops and art classes. The Kidspace Children's Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, and parking is available for a fee. Accessibility is provided by wheelchair ramps and elevators.

Pasadena Museum of California Art

The Pasadena Museum of California Art is dedicated to showcasing the art and design of California from the early 20th century to the present. The museum has an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and photographs by California artists, including David Hockney and Richard Diebenkorn. In addition, the museum has rotating exhibits that feature contemporary California artists. The Pasadena Museum of California Art is open Wednesday to Sunday, and parking is available for a fee. Accessibility is provided by wheelchair ramps and elevators.

Pacific Asia Museum

The Pacific Asia Museum is located in nearby Pasadena and is dedicated to the arts and cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands. The museum has an impressive collection of art and artifacts from China, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines, among others. The museum's permanent collection includes ceramics, textiles, and sculptures, while rotating exhibits showcase contemporary Asian art. The Pacific Asia Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, and parking is free. Accessibility is provided by wheelchair ramps and elevators.

In conclusion, Pasadena is home to several world-class museums that offer something for everyone, whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or a family with young children. The Norton Simon Museum and the Huntington Library are a must-see for their impressive collections of art and rare books. The Kidspace Children's Museum is a fun and educational destination for families with young children. The Pasadena Museum of California Art and the Pacific Asia Museum offer unique perspectives on art and culture. So next time you're in Pasadena, be sure to check out these fantastic museums.