Discovering the Best Museums in Santa Ana, California

If you're looking for a cultural getaway, Santa Ana, California has plenty to offer. As the county seat of Orange County, Santa Ana is home to several museums that cater to different interests. Whether you're into art, history, or science, you'll find a museum that suits your fancy. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best museums in Santa Ana, their geo-locations, exhibit highlights, and parking and accessibility.

Bowers Museum

Located just a stone's throw away from downtown Santa Ana, the Bowers Museum is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. The museum boasts a vast collection of artifacts from different parts of the world, including pre-Columbian art from Mexico and Central America, Native American art, and Chinese art. The museum also has a rotating schedule of special exhibits, so there's always something new to see. Some of the highlights include a mummy exhibit, a display of ancient Chinese ceramics, and a collection of California plein air paintings. The Bowers Museum has plenty of parking available, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Discovery Cube Orange County

If you have kids or are just a kid at heart, the Discovery Cube Orange County is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. This science museum is located in the nearby city of Santa Ana and offers a variety of interactive exhibits that teach visitors about topics like physics, ecology, and space. Some of the highlights include a hurricane simulator, a virtual reality experience that takes you to the moon, and an exhibit that lets you test your reaction time. The Discovery Cube Orange County has plenty of parking available, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Lyon Air Museum

For aviation buffs, the Lyon Air Museum is a must-visit. This museum is located near John Wayne Airport and features a collection of restored vintage aircraft from World War II, as well as vintage automobiles and motorcycles. Some of the highlights include a B-17 Flying Fortress, a B-25 Mitchell, and a 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K. The Lyon Air Museum has ample parking available, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Heritage Museum of Orange County

The Heritage Museum of Orange County is a living history museum that showcases what life was like in Orange County during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum features several historic buildings that have been moved to the site, including a Victorian house, a citrus packing house, and a blacksmith shop. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum and learn about the history of the area. Some of the highlights include a blacksmithing demonstration, a tour of the historic Kellogg House, and a visit to the Native American exhibit. The Heritage Museum of Orange County has limited parking available, but the museum is wheelchair accessible.

In conclusion, Santa Ana, California is a cultural hub that offers a variety of museums to suit any interest. From art and history to science and aviation, there's something for everyone. All of the museums listed in this article have their own unique exhibits and highlights that are worth exploring. Additionally, each museum has ample parking available and is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit today and discover the rich history and culture of Santa Ana.