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Rollercoasters are awesome and who doesn’t like frolicking at the beach, but family trips to California can bolster young minds too. Hands-on museums are huge, including San Francisco’s Exploratorium; the Tech Interactive in San Jose; MOXI, the Wolf Museum of Science + Exploration in Santa Barbara; and the Fleet Science Center in San Diego. The state’s zoos and aquariums are particularly adept at mixing flat-out fun with info-rich attractions and experiences that engage young minds. Also, junior ranger programs at many state and national parks can help kids learn about conservation.
19 Cool California Museums
Add these cultural treasure troves to your next trip
California Science Center
Let your curiosity roam free at this Los Angeles museum celebrating space travel, human biology, and the natural world
California Academy of Sciences
See three museums in one at this San Francisco institution in Golden Gate Park
8 Family-Friendly Gold Rush Adventures
Take on whitewater rapids, pan for gold, and explore California history
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
See a treasure trove of artifacts and discover the magic of the movies at this incomparable film museum in Los Angeles
8 Family-Favorite Science Centers & Museums
Go where kids get an inside look at wildlife, space, and more
MOXI Museum
This interactive science center in Santa Barbara is equally fun for kids and kids at heart
Travel Stories
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Know Before You Go: LEGOLAND California
This theme park features rides, tiny-brick creations, a world-class aquarium, and a water park for kids and grown-ups alike
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Shasta Cascade's Craft Breweries
Hoist a mug to the Californian brewers who redefined the art of ale
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Turtle Bay Exploration Park
This 300-acre Redding attraction boasts an arboretum, museum, sculpture park, and forest camp
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5 Amazing Things to Do Near Calaveras Big Trees State Park
The Gold Country area has rich prospecting history, cool outdoor adventures, and great wine
Cowboy Culture, Highway One, Bikes and Hikes LA
46min
California's Delicious Diversity
44min
San Diego Zoo, Bishop, Mount Shasta
38min
Local Food Tours in California
46min
High-Value Travel
49min
California's Movie Magic
37min
Michelin Guide, L.A. to Paso Robles, LGBTQ+ Travel
46min
Anderson Valley, L.A. Music Venues, Family Travel
35min
Atlas Obscura, Packing Tips, Wine
26min
Balboa Park, Wellness Travel, Wide Open Walls
37min

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