Discover the Best Museums Near Santa Maria, California: A Guide to Exhibits and Accessibility

Are you looking for a way to explore the history and culture of Santa Maria, California? Consider visiting the area's many museums. From art to aviation, these museums offer something for everyone. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best museums near Santa Maria, their geo-locations, specific exhibit highlights, and accessibility information.

Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum

Location: 705 S McClelland St, Santa Maria, CA 93454

The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum is a children's museum that offers a variety of interactive exhibits. It is a great place for families with children to spend an afternoon. Some of the highlights include a giant bubble machine, a treehouse, and a rocket launcher. The museum also features rotating exhibits that showcase local history and culture. Parking is available on site, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

The Natural History Museum

Location: 412 S McClelland St, Santa Maria, CA 93454

The Natural History Museum is a small museum that explores the flora and fauna of the Central Coast. Exhibits include a collection of local taxidermy animals, a butterfly exhibit, and an interactive earthquake simulator. The museum also features a gift shop with books and educational toys. Parking is available on site, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

The Santa Maria Museum of Flight

Location: 3015 Airpark Dr, Santa Maria, CA 93455

The Santa Maria Museum of Flight is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. The museum features a collection of vintage planes and helicopters, including a P-38 Lightning and a Huey helicopter. Visitors can also view displays on local aviation history and learn about the Santa Maria Airport's significance during World War II. The museum is located at the Santa Maria Airport, and parking is free. The museum is wheelchair accessible.

The Dunes Center

Location: 1065 Guadalupe St, Guadalupe, CA 93434

The Dunes Center is a museum dedicated to the unique ecosystem of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes. The museum features exhibits on local plant and animal life, the history of the Chumash Indians who once lived in the area, and the geology of the dunes. Visitors can also take guided tours of the dunes. The museum is located in the nearby town of Guadalupe and offers street parking. The museum is wheelchair accessible.

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art

Location: 1010 Broad St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

The San Luis Obispo Museum of Art is a small museum that features rotating exhibits of contemporary art. The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces from artists around the world. The museum also hosts workshops and classes for all ages. The museum is located in the nearby city of San Luis Obispo and offers street parking. The museum is wheelchair accessible.

In conclusion, the Santa Maria area offers a wealth of museums to explore. From children's museums to aviation museums and beyond, there is something for everyone. Visitors can expect ample parking and wheelchair accessibility at each location, making these museums an excellent choice for people of all abilities. Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover the history and culture of the Santa Maria Valley.