Museums are like doorways that allow visitors to explore new worlds. They offer a glimpse into the past, present, and even the future. Whether you're interested in history, science, art, or culture, these places stimulate your curiosity and enable you to learn more. It doesn't matter if a museum is large or small, old or new – we all love the chance to discover them, no matter where they are. Here are some of our favorite gems on the West Coast. Let's dive in!
So which West Coast museums are must-sees?
1. Portland Art Museum – Portland, Oregon
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The Portland Art Museum is the biggest art museum in the state. It covers almost 250,000 square feet in the middle of downtown. The museum was founded in 1892 and has over 40,000 works of art. One of its standout collections is the Asian art collection, which has around 4,000 pieces. This includes a print of the famous painting "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" by the Japanese artist Hokusai. The museum's latest addition is the Rothko Pavilion. When finished, this new space will house a rotating display of major works, borrowed from the artist's children.
2. The Getty – Los Angeles, California
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The Getty Center, constructed at a staggering cost of one billion dollars in 1997, is a must-visit destination on its own merits, boasting a striking building, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views. But the real treasure lies within, as visitors will discover an extraordinary collection of art spanning from medieval to modern times, all available to view free of charge. The permanent collection features acclaimed works such as Vincent van Gogh's 1889 masterpiece "Irises" and a self-portrait by Rembrandt. In addition, the Getty Villa, situated near Malibu, houses a world-class collection of ancient Greek and Roman art, presented in a Roman-style villa modeled after a structure buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Note: Consider that the museum requires timed admission tickets! And, for a smoother experience, consider booking your parking spot near your departure airport in advance. Thankfully, our smart platform, ParkingNearAirports.io, can help you find cheap long-term parking SFO, affordable parking near Portland Airport, and other options near many West Coast airports. Just visit our website at https://parkingnearairports.io/ to compare airport parking prices and choose the best option for your adventure. Have a great trip!
3. California Academy of Sciences – San Francisco, California
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The name may not sound too exciting, but this national museum is anything but boring. It's packed with incredible experiences that will delight visitors of all interests. A huge 90-foot dome protects a lush rainforest teeming with butterflies, and the Steinhart Aquarium is home to over 1,000 different species, while also conducting important conservation research. The Kimball Natural History Museum is dominated by a towering Tyrannosaurus rex, and the Morrison Planetarium will transport you to the far reaches of the universe. This place is bursting with wonder and discovery – definitely not your average museum!
4. Palm Springs Art Museum – Palm Springs, California
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The city in Coachella Valley is renowned for its well-preserved mid-century modern buildings and as a hideaway for Hollywood stars. It also boasts an incredible museum that focuses on art, architecture, and design. Established in 1938, the museum's permanent collection features stunning glass creations by Dale Chihuly, captivating sculptures by Henry Moore and remarkable works by renowned artists like Alexander Calder, David Hockney, and Marc Chagall.
