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California Must See’s for Monterey Military Families

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About this time last year, I was a newly minted resident of California. Although I’d spent a fair amount of time in the Golden State in the past, I’d never lived here, and to say I was excited to explore my new home would be an understatement for the ages. For the past year, my family and I have spent as much time as possible tooling up and down the land, checking what the state has to offer. With gasoline prices creeping ever upward, most families are looking to get the most bang for their buck when it comes to summer travel.

While many stones are left unturned, here are some of the best places I’ve visited over the past year.

1. ANAHEIM

Home to Disneyland, Anaheim should be on any family’s list. Beyond rollercoasters and cotton candy, the city offers plenty of other entertainment. Yorba Regional Park is great for a picnic; check out a game at Angel Stadium Anaheim or bounce to your heart’s content at the Sky Zone Trampoline Park. Hollywood and Catalina Island are just a stone’s throw away. While you could spend an entire week at the latter amusement park, the nearby Knott’s Berry Farm is no slouch.

2. LAKE TAHOE

Most people don’t necessarily associate California with snow, but there is fun to be found in west coast powder. Northstar Ski Resort, in particular, offers 3,000 skiable acres and a variety of activities for all ages, from snow tubing to skating and fat biking. Lake Tahoe is also a world-class mountain biking destination. During the summer months, the lake itself offers plenty of opportunities for water-based recreation, including jet skiing, paddle boarding, and fishing.

3. THE LOST COAST

Nestled in the wilds of Humboldt and Mendocino counties, Shelter Cove is the termination point for the popular Lost Coast Trail, a popular 25-mile ramble from Mattole down the rugged coast to the unique Black Sands Beach. Hiking the entire length of the trail requires arranging a drop-off at Mattole to the north with one of several shuttle services in the area. Due to tidal action, most people spend a leisurely 3-4 days making their way south back to Shelter Cove, stopping at any number of the perfect campsites spread out along the way.

A backcountry camping permit is required; visit recreation.gov for more information.

Is a full-on backpacking adventure a little beyond your paygrade? The surrounding area is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the day. The area is also perfect for families looking for a quiet destination with a decidedly earthy vibe.

4. SACRAMENTO

Known for its history, the state capital offers numerous activities to entertain and engage local visitors. Pan for gold while learning about the infamous Gold Rush of 1848 at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Get a sense of the pioneer spirit at Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, which has undergone painstaking restoration over the years (the Donner Party stayed here not long after their rescue in 1847). The state capital museum is also open to the public, with an extensive collection of artifacts.

5. SAN DIEGO

World famous and for a good reason, the San Diego Zoo is a genuine wonderland. Over 12,000 animals of 650 different species are on display. Between expert talks, guided and self-guided tours, and interactive wildlife presentations, there is enough to keep a family busy for a week, never mind the traditional day-at-the-zoo most of us are used to. In addition to the full zoo, the Safari Park also offers close encounters with cheetahs, elephants, and giraffes. Unique experience packages and themed activities are also available. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Download the San Diego Zoo app for a GPS-enabled map and inside information on dining, activities, special programming, and more.

A “don’t miss” in the San Diego area is USS Midway Museum. For lovers of modern aviation history, this one is hard to top. Over 30 fully restored jet and propeller aircraft reside on this museum aircraft carrier. Commissioned just eight days after the end of World War II, the Midway served for nearly fifty years before being decommissioned in 1992. The ship features an array of top-notch exhibits above and below deck, including guided tours and flight simulators. Open Monday-Sunday from 10a.m.–4p.m. For tickets and more information, visit midway.gov.

6. SAN FRANCISCO

One of the most eclectic cities in the country lies just two hours north of us in the Bay Area. Families with kids of any age will find various options at their fingertips. Check out the Exploratorium in the Embarcadero waterfront or catch a Giants game at Oracle Park. This is a perfect city for families with older kids to explore on foot; wind your way up the Embarcadero to Crissy Field and a great view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Fans of animation will love the Walt Disney Family Museum, and you can plot your escape from the historic Alcatraz Island.

7. SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK

This is right up there with Yosemite in terms of the wow factor. Created in 1890 to protect its venerable giant trees, Sequoia National Park is also home to Mount Whitney, the tallest point in the lower 48 states. At over 400,000 acres, the largest tree in the world, General Sherman, can be found in the aptly named Giant Forest, home to five of the ten largest trees in the world. Perfect for day hikes and extended trips, visit recreqtion.gov for more information.

8. YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

One of our nation’s crown jewels, Yosemite, is the definition of impressive. If you can only visit one outdoor destination during your time in California, this is it. Yosemite is split into two main regions: the Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. The Valley is known for its sweeping, glacier-sculpted walls and picturesque waterfalls. Spend an afternoon floating the Merced River, watch climbers on the 3,000-foot El Capitan, or hike to the top of Yosemite Falls and take a one-of-a-kind view of the splendor. The high country of Tuolumne features a playground of rounded granite domes, wildflowers, and cooler temperatures during the hot summer months. There are also several redwood groves within the park boundary and just a short walk from the road. A range of accommodations is available in the Valley, from simple camping to the luxurious Ahwahnee Hotel. To manage traffic, reservations are required to drive into the park from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. until September 30. Please visit recreation.gov for more information.

Originally from New England, Matt Desenberg is a writer living in Monterey.

Monterey and Santa Cruz County Parks

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Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties have lots of great parks and playgrounds. Here are our favorites!

CITY OF CARMEL

Parks in the City of Carmel are limited but there are a few. Check ci.carmel.ca.us for park information.

Forest Hill Park

Nestled a few minutes from downtown Carmel, Forest Hill Park is a nice stop after a trip to Carmel Beach. There are bathrooms, swings, picnic benches, a bbq, playground, and basketball court. Located in a residential neighborhood, this is a quiet park with lots of shade.

3026 Junipero St, Carmel

Carmel Valley Park

Located off of Carmel Valley Road near the Village of Carmel Valley, this park offers an abundance of green space, a playground, and the Carmel Valley Pool. Because Carmel Valley is generally 10+ degrees warmer than the peninsula, Carmel Valley Park is a great place to enjoy the sun.

3026 Junipero St, Carmel

CITY OF MARINA

For more information on Marina parks, call 831-884-1278.

Civic Center Playground

This playground offers a climbing/ropes structure best for ages 5-12. The park has swings, playground, fire truck and activity tables for ages 2-5, giant rock climbing cubes. There are no shaded areas so pack plenty of sunscreen on sunny days.

 213 Hillcrest Ave, Marina

CITY OF MONTEREY

The city of Monterey has 37 parks with various recreation facilities including barbecue grills, sports fields, and other amenities.  Contact Monterey Recreation at (831) 646-3866 for information on any of the city parks.

Dennis the Menace Park

Dennis the Menace Park is the most popular playground in Monterey County and a definite hit with all ages. It is part of the El Estero Park Complex, a multi-use recreation area in the center of Monterey. There is a paddle boat concession, group BBQ picnic area, exercise course, and restrooms.

At Dennis the Menace, you’ll find a large playground with slides, swings, maze, tunnel, bridge, and a rock climbing wall. Created with the help of Hank Ketcham, creator of the Dennis the Menace comic strip, the park features an authentic 1924 Southern Pacific steam engine. Bonus: a snack bar is open six days a week offering inexpensive items like hamburgers and hot dogs as well as cold treats like sno-cones and ice cream.

777 Pearl Street, Monterey

Veterans Park

This park is great for kids who love to climb and is perfect for kids 4 and up. There are swings for both age groups, a huge field to play in, lots of picnic benches and a small area for younger kids. There is some shade but it’s definitely on the sunny side. Veterans Park also offers camping as well as walking trails. For a great workout, walk the steep stairs up to the hiking trails a few times.

1200 Veteran’s Drive, Monterey

CITY OF PACIFIC GROVE

Pacific Grove boasts 28 parks, ranging from the beach sands of Lovers Point Park to the forest of Monterey Pines. Park reservations are available for parties, events, picnics, BBQ’s, sports practices/games and more.  For more info about Pacific Grove parks, check cityofpacificgrove.org or call 831-648-3130.

Caledonia Park

Located just two blocks from downtown Pacific Grove, Caledonia has a playground, a small baseball field, a basketball court, and multiple sets of picnic benches. There are swings for babies and older children, an open area for play, and a climbing structure. One bonus is the ample parking all around the park.

161 Caledonia Ave., Pacific Grove

Lovers Point Park

Lovers Point Park is a landscaped community park of 4.4 acres. It is used for picnicking, fishing, swimming, water sports, and surfing. Amenities include a large lawn area, a beach volleyball court, a children’s swimming pool, sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, a concrete pier structure, and a snack bar. One advantage to Lovers Point is the secluded beach area perfect for keeping you protected from the wind. There is a parking lot next to the park. Note that parking is very difficult to find on busy weekends and holidays.

631 Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove

George Washington Park

George Washington Park is the largest of Pacific Grove’s parks. It is six blocks long and most of the park is natural, unimproved forest that offers wildlife habitat. The park also contains picnic tables, barbecue grills, restrooms, play structure, and a baseball field.  

700 Alder St, Pacific Grove

CITY OF SALINAS

Salinas has 21 parks, most located in neighborhoods. You can find an interactive map of the city parks at www.cityofsalinas.org.

Tatum’s Garden

Tatum’s Garden is Monterey County’s first fully inclusive and accessible playground, where children of all abilities can play. This park is compact but filled with opportunities to explore. It features wheel chair ramps and other features so that children with disabilities are not left out of the fun. Note: the same people who worked to bring Tatum’s Garden to Salinas are working on Tatum’s Treehouse to be located in Carmel Valley.  

1 Maryal Dr, Salinas. For more information on Tatum’s Garden, check tatumsgarden.org.

Toro Park

Toro County Park is located six miles from downtown Salinas, and 13 miles from the Monterey Peninsula. The park’s 4,756 acres include trails for hiking and biking, playgrounds, picnic tables and BBQ areas, and lots of open space to explore. The hiking trails range from very easy to difficult. There is a fee to enter the park.

501 Monterey-Salinas Highway 68, Salinas. Check www.co.monterey.ca.us for more info.

CITY OF SANTA CRUZ

The City of Santa Cruz has parks for everyone including Depot Park with its beautiful ocean view.

For info on Santa Cruz parks,  check www.cityofsantacruz.com.

Depot Park

This park area has an amazing ocean view. The park also has some of the longest slides we have seen. There are two playground/structures as well as a climbing/ropes structure.

102 Ocean View Ave, Santa Cruz

Ocean View Park

This park area has an amazing ocean view. The park also has some of the longest slides we have ever seen. There are two playground/structures for all ages as well as a climbing/ropes structure.

102 Ocean View Ave, Santa Cruz

Monterey County Recreation Departments Offer Inexpensive Family Fun

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One resource for inexpensive, varied activities are the parks departments associated with peninsula cities. Offering everything from preschools to movie nights to swimming lessons, they will quickly become your go to source for family fun. Depending on what city you live in, you may get a discount for being a city resident but in general you can participate in activities regardless of where you live. All have their catalogs online so you can choose your activities and sign up conveniently.

THE CITY OF MARINA PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT oversees the Youth, Teen and Senior Centers. In addition, the department holds a variety of special events and sport leagues.

The City of Marina offers an array of affordable recreational opportunities for youth, teen, and adult sports programs year round.  Options include league play and youth sports camps.  Sport programs are open to residents and surrounding communities.

Recreation staff and volunteers host community events each year and provide safe places for children to go after school and during the summer.

The Marina Skate Park is located at 304 Hillcrest Avenue and is open daily offering a safe place for kids to ride their skateboards.

For additional information on The City of Marina Parks Dept. programs, check www.cityofmarina.org.

THE CITY OF MONTEREY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT encompasses community centers, sports, and summer camps. In addition, they manage the Monterey Sports Center and the city parks. Monterey Parks & Rec. offers an affordable preschool program at two of the community centers.

City community centers include Casanova Oak Knoll Park Center where preschool, stay and play, and teen drop-in programs along with a variety of programs and classes for all ages are offered. In addition to preschool, youth and teen programs, a variety of activities for all ages are offered at El Estero Park Center. The center is located near Dennis the Menace Park. Hilltop Park Center offers a preschool program, ballet instruction, ceramic studio, classes for children and adults, public access computers and a community room with activities for the whole family. The main focus of Scholze Park Center is on programs for adults  including art workshops, dance, sewing, and exercise classes. The center offers drive through meals for seniors Tuesday through Friday from 11 am-noon.

Youth sports camps and leagues include flag football, track & field, soccer, beach volleyball, school break and summer sports camps.

Located in downtown Monterey, the Sports Center offers two indoor pools, a large selection of group exercise options, an extensive workout area, basketball, and more. Short term memberships are available so you can try out the facility.

Veteran’s Memorial Park is a beautiful 50 acre park located only a mile from downtown Monterey with campsites. The park is an affordable and fun way to stay overnight in the area or for families to have a camping getaway close to home. Besides the campsites (open 365 days per year), the park includes hiking trails, BBQ picnic areas, play equipment, turf and lawn playfield and a basketball court.

For additional information about City of Monterey Parks and Recreation programs, check monterey.org.

THE CITY OF PACIFIC GROVE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT provides services and programs at 28 parks including Caledonia, Jewell, and Lovers’ Point. Facilities under the direction of the department include Chautauqua Hall, the PG Community Center, Jewell Park, and the Youth Center.

Classes for kids include youth ballet and tap. A highlight of the department’s program is their swim program at Lovers Point. Classes always book quickly so if interested parents are advised to check the website early for registration dates and deadlines.

Summer programs include tot camp, chess camp, and a Lego camp.

For additional information on The City of Pacific Grove Parks Dept. programs, check cityofpacificgrove.org.

THE CITY OF SALINAS PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT offers a wide variety of programs for youth and adults that encourage a positive leisure lifestyle through dance, sports, arts and other enrichment activities. From a Tiny Tots playschool to sports programs to summer camps, the rec department focuses on providing fun, free and inexpensive programming for all ages.

The City of Salinas Recreation-Park Division also offers free afterschool programs for youth at several of its recreation facilities Monday – Friday.

For additional information, check www.cityofsalinas.org.

THE CITY OF SEASIDE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT provides a variety of programs for children including preschool, summer camp, afterschool programs, sports lessons and leagues, as well as swim lessons and open swim time at Pattullo Swim Center.

There are several neighborhood parks offering open space, playgrounds, and picnic facilities.  Special events include Blues in the Park  previously held in September and October and Movies in the Park. Holiday events include an Easter Egg Hunt,  Halloween Bonanza, and a Winter Wonderland.

For additional information on The City of Seaside Recreation Dept. programs, check ci.seaside.ca.us/299/Recreation-Services

Ten Monterey County Not-To-Be-Missed Family Hikes

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Here are ten local destinations in Monterey and Santa Cruz where your family can enjoy some outdoor time and a great walk!

1. FROG POND WETLAND PRESERVE

Enjoy a short (¾ mile) loop around a beautiful pond while listening for the calls of ducks, frogs, and a variety of birds. Children will love exploring under the overgrown trees and bushes, which almost feel like a natural labyrinth. Don´t forget to bring your binoculars and a light lunch.

  • 698 Canyon Del Rey Blvd.

  • Del Rey Oaks, 93940

  • Parking is free, located off of the shoulder of Canyon Del Rey Blvd.


2. FORT ORD DUNES STATE PARK

At Fort Ord Dunes you will find over five miles of paved trails that are all-access friendly. If you´re feeling adventurous, explore sand trails that branch off toward the dunes and beach. Only have a short break? Skip the walk and head down to the first beach access trail by the main parking lot entrance. Enjoy breathtaking views while the children climb the dunes.

  • Stillwell Hall, Marina, 93933

  • Parking is free.


3. JACK’S PEAK PARK

Nestled in the hills of Monterey, Jack´s Peak Park offers a great workout within its eight miles of trails. Children will love its storybook location complete with lush pine trees. The whole family can experience the thrill of hiking up to the highest point in the Monterey Peninsula, rising 1,068 feet above the valley. The views of the ocean, city, and bay below will quickly become a family favorite. Picnic areas are available next to the parking lots.

  • 25020 Jack’s Peak Park Rd,

  • Monterey, 93940

  • Parking is $5 per vehicle


4. SALINAS RIVER STATE BEACH

Located in the heart of Moss Landing, this trail is accessible through Potrero and Sandholt Roads off of HWY 1. The whole family will enjoy exploring trails and passing the slough, boats, and beach that connect the two entrances.

  • Potrero Road access:

  • 10933 Potrero Road

  • Moss Landing, 95039

  • Parking is free.

  • Moss Landing Road access:

  • 7866 Sandholdt Road

  • Moss Landing, 95039


5. LAGUNA GRANDE REGIONAL PARK

Laguna Grande Regional Park is located in the cities of Seaside and Monterey and is managed separately by their respective owners and operators, Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District (MPRPD), City of Seaside, and the City of Monterey. Take the family out for a walk around this gorgeous lake while exploring the three surrounding playgrounds. The complete loop is about a mile and you´ll enjoy tracking your distance or simply enjoying the sights of the ducks and birds. Picnic tables are also available.

  • 1350 Del Monte Blvd. Seaside, 93955

  • Parking is free.


6. FORT ORD NATIONAL MONUMENT

This secluded location boasts over 86 miles of undeveloped wildland terrain. Flora and fauna lovers will enjoy identifying over 35 rare species of plant with scenic views of the valleys. This location is known for its inclines, so bring your mountain bikes and good hiking shoes.

  • Creekside Terrace, Salinas, 93908

  • Parking is free.


7. ELKHORN SLOUGH NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE

Elkhorn Slough is more than just a research facility. Dress in layers and take along a lunch, as you hike through marshes, woodlands, and creeks. The area is well known for its variety of birds. There are kayak companies in Moss Landing that rent kayaks, stand up paddle boards and other boats for use in the Slough.  The Reserve is open Wednesday thru Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

  • 1700 Elkhorn Rd, Watsonville, 95012

  • Parking is free.


8. POINT LOBOS STATE NATURAL RESERVE

This park offers beautiful scenery at every turn. With over 10 miles looping through the shore and forest, Point Lobos provides hours of endless space to explore. The forest will pull you in with its ocean vistas, the calls of sea lions, cliff viewpoints, tide pools, diving areas, and beaches all along the south shore. Be aware that the paths aren’t stroller friendly or suitable for very young walkers.

  • 62 California 1, Carmel, 93923

  • Parking is $10 per vehicle with

  • limited availability.


9. MISSION TRAIL PARK

A former estate that has now been converted into a 33-acre preserve, it houses a network of five miles of trails that the whole family will enjoy. The trails are mostly flat and are surrounded by tall pine, redwoods, and a wide variety of flora. The trails wind through streams with visibility of Carmel Beach. A well-preserved secret, Mission Trail Park offers views of Point Lobos, the Carmel Mission Basilica, and an abandoned mansion.

  • 25800 Hatton Rd, Carmel, 93923

  • Parking is free.


10. ASILOMAR BOARDWALK AND BEACH

A ¼ mile boardwalk meanders through 25 acres of restored sand dune ecosystem. More than 450,000 plants, representing 25 species, have been grown and planted in an effort to preserve the dunes and coastal bluffs. This easy walk is wheelchair and stroller friendly and offers great sunset views. You can also cross Sunset Drive and walk along the beach or the one-mile Asilomar Coast Trail.

  • 800 Asilomar Avenue,

  • Pacific Grove, 93950

  • Free parking along the coastal road of Sunset Drive or in the limited visitor spots at Asilomar Conference grounds.

Monterey/Santa Cruz/San Jose Museums You’ll Want to Visit

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The next time your family is looking for a cultural fix, pick one of these museums  for an afternoon of fun.

CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY MUSEUM OF SAN JOSE

The Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose is a perfect spot for young children to play and socialize in an organized setting. Exhibits include an art studio, air maze, theatre, and more. Non-member reservations available, but spaces are limited.

  • 180 Woz Way, San Jose, 95110

  • Open Wednesday-Friday from 9:30 A.M.–12:30 P.M., Saturday & Sunday from 9:30 A.M.–12:30 P.M. and 1:30 P.M.–4:30 P.M.

  • 408-298-5437

  • CDM.org


COLTON HALL

Free admission. Built to serve as a public school and town meeting hall, Colton Hall offers visitors a re-creation of the meeting room where California’s first Constitution was drafted in October 1849. Colton Hall is small but perfect for history buffs as well as children in the elementary ages.

  • 570 Pacific St., Monterey, 93940 •

  • Open Thursday through Sunday 10 A.M.–4 P.M

  • 831-646-5648


MHAA SALVADOR DALI EXHIBITION

Reduced admission for active military

The Monterey History & Arts Association (MHAA) Salvador Dali Exhibition is a crown jewel of Monterey’s museum offerings. Located in the heart of Monterey on the Old Fisherman’s Wharf, it is home to a collection of over 560 Dali pieces, including lithographs, etchings, photographs, sculptures and tapestries. Named a “Must-See Exhibit” by USA Today.

  • 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, 93940

  • Open daily 11 A.M.–8 P.M.

  • 831-372-2608

  • www.MHAADALI.com


MONTEREY COUNTY YOUTH MUSEUM

The 8,500 square-foot museum was developed in 1997 to provide an environment where children and adults learn together through experience. A variety of special classes and activities are offered including MY ImagiTree, MY Creation Station, MY Healthy Farm, and more. 

  • 425 Washington St., Monterey, 93940

  • Open Wednesday through Friday 10 A.M.–3 P.M., Saturday-Sunday 10 A.M.–5 P.M.

  • 831-649-6444

  • www.mymuseum.org


MONTEREY MUSEUM OF ART

The Monterey Museum of Art features permanent and rotating exhibits of work in a variety of media, including painting, photography and contemporary art. Several special events are offered over the course of the summer.

  • 559 Pacific St., Monterey, 93940

  • Open Thursday-Sunday 11 A.M.–5 P.M.

  • 831-372-5477

  • www.Monterey.org

  • Free admission with active military ID


NATIONAL STEINBECK CENTER

Dedicated to acclaimed writer and Salinas native, the National Steinbeck Center is home to film clips, books, plays, information and artifacts from Steinbeck’s personal archives. Information on special events at the museum as well as educational resources for parents and educators is available on the Center website.

  • 1 Main St., Salinas, 93901

  • Open Wednesday-Sunday 10 A.M.–5 P.M.

  • 831-775-4721

  • www.Steinbeck.org

  • Discounted admission for active duty military and families


PACIFIC GROVE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

The museum opened in 1883 making it one of the oldest natural history museums in the country. The museum showcases the wildlife, plants, and geology of the Central Coast region. A perfect place for kids, the museum offers a variety of self-directed activities and programs to keep little ones engaged during their visit. Local children are welcome to join the Junior Naturalists Club with special monthly programming. Free admission is offered on the last Saturday and the first Friday evening of each month.

  • 165 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove, 93950

  • Open Wednesday-Sunday 10 A.M.–4 P.M.

  • 831-648-5716

  • PGmuseum.org

  • Discounted admission for acxtive duty military and families


PACIFIC HOUSE MUSEUM

The Pacific House was built in 1847 during the US occupation of California and now offers a snapshot into Monterey life over 150 years ago. The Holman Collection features artifacts from Spanish, Mexican and Native American cultures.

  • 10 Custom House Plaza, Monterey State Historic Park, Monterey

  • Open Tuesday-Sunday

  • 10 A.M.–4 P.M.

  • 831-649-2907

  • Free admission


PRESIDIO MUSEUM OF MONTEREY

The Presidio of Monterey Museum chronicles the various stages of military development in Monterey history. The majority of the museum is dedicated to the use of the Presidio as a training base.

  • Corporal Ewing Road, Building 113, Monterey, 93940

  • Open Saturday & Sunday 10 A.M.–4 P.M.

  • 831-646-3456

  • Free admission


SANTA CRUZ MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY

Discounted admission for active duty military and families. An eclectic museum with everything from historical pieces to the work of Hunter S. Thompson. Perfect for older elementary students to adults.

  • 705 Front St., Santa Cruz, 95060

  • Open Thursday-Sunday 12–6 P.M.

  • 831-429-1964

  • SantaCruzMAH.org


SEYMOUR MARINE DISCOVERY CENTER

Operated by the University of California, Santa Cruz, the center features indoor and outdoor exhibits on octopus, eels, sharks, and other deep sea creatures. Home to one of the largest blue whale skeletons in the world!

  • 100McCalister Way, Santa Cruz, 95060

  • Open Wednesday-Sunday 10 A.M.–4 P.M.

  • 831-459-3800


ROSICRUCIAN EGYPTIAN MUSEUM

With over 4,000 artifacts, this museum is one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian history in the county. Exhibit themes include tomb, daily life and the afterlife. Other Rosicrucian Park attractions are close by, including the Alchemy Museum and Planetarium.

  • 1660 Park Ave, San Jose, 95126

  • Open Friday 10 A.M.–5 P.M., Saturday & Sunday 11 A.M.–6 P.M.

  • 408-947-3635

  • Egyptianmuseum.org

  • Discounted admission for military & families

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