The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most breathtaking road trips in the world, offering stunning coastal views and access to a wide range of cultural experiences. One such experience is exploring the many world-class museums that dot the West Coast. From modern art to natural history, there is something for everyone. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the top fourteen must-visit museums along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Along the route, you’ll find some of the best museums in the United States, showcasing everything from contemporary art to natural history. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for something to do on a rainy day, these museums offer a unique and enriching experience. So fasten your seatbelts and get ready to be inspired by the rich cultural offerings of this iconic route.
1. Pacific Bonsai Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 25 MI/ 40 KM FEDERAL WAY, WASHINGTON
GPS: 47.29389, -122.30200
ADDRESS: 2515 South 336th St, Federal Way, WA 98003
The Pacific Bonsai Museum is a hidden gem along the Pacific Coast Highway, located in Federal Way, Washington. This museum is dedicated solely to the art of bonsai, a traditional Japanese art form that involves growing and cultivating small trees in containers.
The museum’s collection of bonsai trees is considered one of the finest in North America, with over 150 specimens from around the world. These living works of art range in age from just a few years to over 350 years old, and showcase a wide variety of styles and techniques. Visitors to the museum can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, admiring the intricate details of each tree, or attend one of the many workshops or events hosted by the museum.
2. John’s Beachcombing Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 235 MI/ 378 KM FORKS, WASHINGTON
GPS: 47.96252, -124.40135
ADDRESS: 143 Andersonville Ave, Forks, WA 98331
John’s Beachcombing Museum is a quirky and fascinating attraction located in Forks, Washington, along the Pacific Coast Highway. As its name suggests, the museum is dedicated to the art of beachcombing, or the practice of searching for and collecting interesting objects that wash up on the shore.
Owned and operated by John Anderson, the museum features an eclectic collection of items that Anderson has found during his many years of beachcombing along the nearby beaches. Visitors to the museum can expect to see everything from sea glass and shells to antique bottles and fishing lures, all carefully arranged and displayed in various cases and shelves throughout the museum.
3. Northwest Carriage Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 369 MI/ 594 KM Raymond, WASHINGTON
GPS: 46.68344, -123.73274
ADDRESS: 314 Alder St, Raymond, WA 98577
The Northwest Carriage Museum is a must-see attraction located in Raymond, Washington, along the Pacific Coast Highway. This unique museum is dedicated to preserving the history and craftsmanship of horse-drawn carriages, with an impressive collection of over 50 restored carriages and other vehicles from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Visitors to the museum can expect to see a wide range of carriages, from elegant and ornate models used by wealthy families for transportation and leisure, to more practical and functional vehicles used for farming and other work. Each carriage is beautifully restored and displayed in a way that showcases its unique history and design.
One of the highlights of the museum is its interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to experience what it was like to ride in a horse-drawn carriage. For example, visitors can climb aboard a replica stagecoach and feel what it was like to travel across the country in the 1800s. Other exhibits allow visitors to see the inner workings of various carriages and learn about the craftsmanship and engineering that went into their creation.
4. Marsh’s Free Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 413 MI/ 665 KM LONG BEACH, WASHINGTON
GPS: 46.34929, -124.05530
ADDRESS: 409 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, WA 98631
Marsh’s Free Museum is one of the most unique and entertaining museums along the Pacific Coast Highway, located in Long Beach, Washington. This museum has been a fixture in the area since the early 20th century and is known for its odd and eclectic collection of curiosities.
One of the most famous attractions at Marsh’s Free Museum is Jake the Alligator Man, a bizarre and fascinating creature that is part-man and part-alligator. Jake is said to have been born in the swamps of Louisiana in the early 20th century and was discovered by a traveling circus. Today, he is preserved in a glass case at Marsh’s Free Museum, where visitors can marvel at his unusual appearance and learn more about his history.
In addition to Jake the Alligator Man, Marsh’s Free Museum features a wide variety of other oddities and curiosities, including vintage arcade machines, antique slot machines, and a collection of seashells and natural history specimens. Visitors can also browse the museum’s gift shop, which features a variety of unique souvenirs and items for sale.
5. Columbia River Maritime Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 430 MI/ 692 KM ASTORIA, OREGON
GPS: 46.18988, -123.82360
ADDRESS: 1792 Marine Dr, Astoria, OR 97103
The Columbia River Maritime Museum is a must-see destination for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. Located in Astoria, Oregon, the museum is dedicated to preserving the rich maritime history of the Columbia River and the Pacific Northwest.
The museum’s exhibits showcase the region’s maritime heritage, from the early Native American canoes and fishing boats to the modern-day cargo ships that navigate the Columbia River. Visitors can see a wide range of artifacts, including navigational equipment, fishing gear, and historic vessels.
One of the most impressive exhibits at the museum is the Lightship Columbia, a decommissioned vessel that served as a floating lighthouse on the Columbia River for more than 30 years. Visitors can board the ship and explore its quarters, engine room, and other areas.
6. Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 435 MI/ 700 KM ASTORIA, OREGON
GPS: 46.13450, -123.88031
ADDRESS: 92343 Fort Clatsop Rd, Astoria, OR 97103
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is a fantastic addition to your list of best museums along the Pacific Coast Highway. The park is located in Astoria, Oregon and celebrates the historic journey of explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark.
The park includes several exhibits, a film about the expedition, and a replica of Fort Clatsop, where the explorers spent the winter of 1805-1806. Visitors can also explore hiking trails and take part in ranger-led programs and demonstrations.
Overall, Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is an excellent destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone interested in exploring the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
7. Clarke Historical Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 878 MI/ 1413 KM EUREKA, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 40.80363, -124.16763
ADDRESS: 240 E St, Eureka, CA 95501
The Clarke Historical Museum is an excellent stop for history enthusiasts traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. Located in Eureka, California, the museum is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural and historical heritage of Humboldt County and the surrounding region.
The museum’s collections include more than 10,000 objects, photographs, and documents that chronicle the history of the area from the Native American cultures to the present day. Visitors can explore exhibits that cover a wide range of topics, including the logging and fishing industries, the Victorian era, and the impact of the gold rush on the region.
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the “Redwood Giants” display, which features a collection of artifacts and photographs that highlight the history of the redwood forests of Northern California. Visitors can also see a restored 19th-century house that provides a glimpse into the daily life of a typical Victorian-era family.
8. Fort Ross
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1096 MI/ 1764 KM FORT ROSS, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 38.51426, -123.24356
ADDRESS: 19005 Coast Hwy, Jenner, CA 95450
Fort Ross State Historic Park is a fascinating destination for anyone traveling along California Highway 1. Located on the rugged Sonoma Coast, the park encompasses a historic Russian settlement that dates back to the early 19th century.
Visitors to Fort Ross can explore a variety of historic structures, including a reconstructed Russian Orthodox church, a trading post, and a blockhouse. The park also offers interpretive programs and exhibits that explore the history of the Russian-American Company, which established the settlement as a trading outpost for furs and other resources.
In addition to its historical significance, Fort Ross is also a beautiful natural destination, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beach that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and engaging stop along California Highway 1, Fort Ross State Historic Park is well worth a visit. Its combination of historical significance and natural beauty make it one of the best museums along the California coastline.
9. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1186 MI/ 1909 KM SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 37.78570, -122.40103
ADDRESS: 151 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts traveling along California Highway 1. Located in downtown San Francisco, the museum is home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world.
The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 33,000 works of art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and video installations. Visitors can see iconic works by artists such as Frida Kahlo, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol, as well as contemporary pieces by emerging artists.
Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or simply interested in exploring the vibrant cultural scene of San Francisco, SFMOMA is one of the best museums along California Highway 1. Its world-class collection, stunning architecture, and engaging programs make it a must-see destination for any traveler.
10. Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1259 MI/ 2026 KM SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.95147, -122.02672
ADDRESS: 701 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is a unique and fascinating stop for surfers and history enthusiasts traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. Located in Santa Cruz, California, the museum is dedicated to preserving the rich surfing heritage of the region, which has been a popular destination for surfers since the early 20th century.
The museum’s exhibits showcase the evolution of surfing culture and technology, from the early days of wooden surfboards to the modern era of high-performance boards and wetsuits. Visitors can see a wide range of historic surfboards, photographs, and other artifacts that highlight the rich history and culture of surfing in Santa Cruz and the surrounding area.
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the “Surfing Santa” statue, which stands outside the museum and has become a beloved landmark in the community. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, including surf camps, film screenings, and workshops.
If you’d like to witness the exhilarating spectacle of surfers conquering majestic waves, I invite you to explore my latest blog post on the enchanting coastal stretches along the Pacific Ocean Highway: Pacific Coast Highway – TOP 8 BEST Surfing Spots on the PCH California 1
11. Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1551 MI/ 2496 KM SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 34.40408, -119.69373
ADDRESS: 113 Harbor Way STE 190, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is a hidden gem that offers visitors a fascinating look at the rich maritime history of the California coast. Located on the historic waterfront in Santa Barbara, the museum is one of the best maritime museums along the Pacific Coast Highway.
The museum’s exhibits showcase the important role that the ocean has played in the development of the region, from the Chumash people who first inhabited the area to the Spanish explorers and American settlers who followed. Visitors can see a variety of artifacts, including historic vessels, navigational instruments, and maritime art.
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the Point Conception Lighthouse Lens, which is one of only three first-order Fresnel lenses still in existence in California. Visitors can also explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, which allow them to experience the thrill of piloting a boat or navigating the ocean.
12. The Getty Villa
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1630 MI/ 2623 KM PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 34.04589, -118.56486
ADDRESS: 17985 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
One of the most popular and famous museums along the Pacific Coast Highway. The museum is dedicated to the art and culture of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria and is modeled after a first-century Roman villa.
Visitors to the Getty Villa can explore a vast collection of ancient art and artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts. Highlights of the collection include the Lansdowne Heracles, a larger-than-life statue of the Greek hero, and the Villa dei Papiri, a replica of an ancient Roman villa buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
One of the most striking features of the Getty Villa is its stunning architecture and gardens. The museum’s buildings are designed to resemble ancient Roman villas, with courtyards, colonnades, and fountains. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants and flowers that were commonly found in ancient Rome and Greece, creating a truly immersive experience for visitors.
13. Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1678 MI/ 2700 KM HUNTINGTON BEACH, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 33.65916, -118.00076
ADDRESS: 411 Olive Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
The Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum is a top-rated museum located in the heart of Surf City USA, Huntington Beach, California. The museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of surfing, and is one of the best and most popular museums along the Pacific Coast Highway.
The museum’s exhibits showcase the evolution of surfing from its early beginnings to the modern-day sport it is today. Visitors can see a range of surfing artifacts, including vintage surfboards, rare photographs, and memorabilia from surfing legends. One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Surfing Hall of Fame, which celebrates the achievements of some of the world’s most iconic surfers.
One of the museum’s standout features is its location, just a few blocks from the beach in the heart of Huntington Beach. This prime location allows visitors to experience the excitement and energy of Surf City USA, and to connect with the local surf culture that has made Huntington Beach such an iconic destination for surfers and beachgoers.
14. USS Midway Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1767 MI/ 2844 KM SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 32.71372, -117.17514
ADDRESS: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
This is the last museum on my list of best museums along the Pacific Coast Highway. The USS Midway Museum is a top-rated museum located in San Diego, California, and is a popular destination for visitors traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. The museum is dedicated to the history and legacy of the USS Midway, a retired aircraft carrier that served in the United States Navy for over 47 years.
Visitors to the museum can explore the massive aircraft carrier and experience what life was like for the crew during its active service. The museum features a range of exhibits that showcase the ship’s history, including interactive displays, aircraft exhibits, and immersive experiences that provide a glimpse into the daily life of sailors on board.
One of the most popular attractions at the museum is the flight deck, where visitors can see a collection of aircraft that were used by the Navy during the ship’s active service. The flight deck also provides stunning views of San Diego Bay and the city skyline, making it a must-see destination for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the PCH in my travel guide, “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the adventure and wonder of THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY! MUST-HAVE for all West Coast travelers. Visit 202 places on the PCH with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles motorcycle club and an avid traveler. He has completed seven full journeys along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway on his Harley-Davidson and is passionate about promoting this historic drive to others. Mark has also explored the Alaska Highway and Route 66, and has authored three bestselling travel guides on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places,” “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops,” and “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops.”