Central Coast Region

South Coast Railroad Museum - The South Coast Railroad Museum at Goleta Depot is dedicated to the history, technology, and adventure of railroading. Special emphasis is placed on the railroad's contributions to local history, on the Southern Pacific Railroad, and on the key historical role of the railroad depot in rural community life across America.

Fisherman's Wharf - Monterey's world-famous wharf is known for its fine dining, unique shops, fresh fish markets and a variety of other recreational activities.

Maritime Museum of Monterey - The Maritime Museum of Monterey shares the spirit of the explorers, conquerors, sailors and fishermen whose courage shaped Monterey’s, and this nation’s, history.  Located on Monterey’s waterfront, the museum explores the regions maritime heritage, from the Ohlone Indians and Spanish conquistadors to World War II and Monterey’s heyday as Sardine Capital of the World.

My Museum - MY Museum is a hands-on place for kids and families of all ages.  You can touch everything!  There is a lot to explore, create, learn and discover in many different areas!

Monterey Museum of Art - The museum's permanent collection includes California paintings, sculpture, works on paper and photography, Asian art, international folk art, and features significant bodies of work by Armin Hansen, William Ritschel, Ansel Adams, and Edward Weston.

John Steinbeck's Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum - The John Steinbeck’s Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum features more than 100 life-size wax figures imported from London and Paris. Featured in dozens of thrilling and animated scenes with special effects throughout, Steinbeck’s Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum takes the visitor into a Time Machine through 450 years of Monterey's fascinating and turbulent past.

Monterey Bay Aquarium - The aquarium features more than 100 galleries and exhibits devoted to the diverse habitats of Monterey Bay. The aquarium also features the world's largest jellyfish gallery and largest living deep sea exhibits.  More than 300,000 animals and plants representing 571 species of fishes, invertebrates, mammals, reptiles, birds and plants found in Monterey Bay.

Museum of Natural History - The Museum of Natural History in Morro Bay offers activities for all ages, many of which are free. Nature walks, exhibits, lectures, puppet shows, videos, docent led tours and special events are available to make your visit both fun and educational.

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History -  The Museum has permanent exhibits which interpret the native plants, animals, geology, and aboriginal populations of Monterey County. The Museum also displays a variety of special temporary exhibits throughout the year.

National Geographic Theatre Located at hearst Castle - The National Geographic Theater at Hearst Castle is truly an amazing movie experience.  Its iWERKS screen is eight times the size of conventional movie screens, delivering unforgettable, breathtaking images and sound.

Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum - The Karpeles Library is the world's largest private holding of important original manuscripts & documents.  The archives include Literature, Science, Religion, History and Art.

Santa Barbara Botanical Garden - Sixty-five acres and over 5 miles of paths meander through an unrivaled collection of California flora and offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands. Eight different habitats represent various regions throughout California, including redwood forests, oak and canyon woodlands, meadows and deserts.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History - Set in historic Mission Canyon, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History offers a close look at the story of the region's birth, geology and paleontology, native wildlife, rich marine life, and the culture of the Chumash Indians. Features include a 72-foot Blue Whale skeleton, the region's only public Planetarium and observatory, a creekside setting and a unique Museum Store.

Santa Barbara Zoo - The Santa Barbara Zoo features over 700 animals species, the Zoo also offers a gift store, a Dentzel family enclosed carousel and two C.P. Huntington trains.

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum - Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum introduces visitors to the 40th president, his Hollywood days, California governorship, and White House career.

Ventura County Museum of History and Art - The Ventura County Museum of History & Art, 100 East Main Street, is located in downtown Ventura across the street from the County's most historic site, the San Buenaventura Mission. There is much to see here, including the Albinger Archaeological Museum.

Ventura Harbor - Located between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, Ventura Harbor has become a favorite vacation getaway, family retreat and group destination for Californians since opening in 1963.  With a great year-round climate, you can sun and swim along miles of uncrowded beaches.  Boaters have a choice of three marinas, two Yacht Clubs, or launching from the six lane ramp.