Bowers Museum
2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, California
Orange County’s largest museum, the Bowers Museum brings a diverse range of cultures to Southern California. Its collection of 91,000 works of art represent peoples from around the globe and is particularly strong in the areas of Asian, Pacific, Native American, and pre-Columbian art, as well as Orange County history.
Its location just a few miles from Disneyland makes the Bowers Museum a popular attraction for families taking a break from the theme park. General admission, which can be booked in advance to save time, includes access to the permanent collection and special exhibits. Kids under 12 years of age enjoy free admission. Self-guided audio tours pointing out the highlights of the collection are always available and can be downloaded for free on a smartphone; occasionally, the museum also hosts VIP private gallery tours.
- The Bowers Museum is a must for history buffs, art lovers, and families.
- Book your museum tickets online ahead of time and skip the line at the ticket office.
- All areas of the museum are accessible to wheelchairs, and wheelchairs are available to borrow from the security office.
- Still photography is allowed inside the museum, but turn off your flash and leave the tripod at home.
The Bowers Museum is located just off Interstate 5, on Main and West 20th Streets in Santa Ana. The museum is just 15 minutes southeast of Disneyland.
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from morning to mid-afternoon. Plan to stop in for a visit on your way to or from Disneyland or on a rainy or hot afternoon.
The Bowers Museum keeps a full calendar of hands-on workshops and classes designed for both kids and adults. Sessions might include a family fashion workshop on embroidery and sewing, pastel landscape painting, or making paper parasols or wooden fans. Visit the website to see the schedule.
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