The southern end of California is known for its beautiful coasts and sunny weather. Beach lovers love to visit this state, and so do the people who enjoy some adventure and adrenaline from across the country. 

But this state is more than just a fantastic summer destination. It has many landmarks, top-notch shopping districts, luxurious dining spots, and much more. But if you are a fan of history this region also has different kinds of museums that you can visit. 

We have developed this post to help you find the region’s best art galleries to make your holiday in this country as rich as ever. So continue reading until the end to see this southern state’s top museums. 

USS Iowa

By visiting this place, you can travel back in time and have the opportunity to see how marines used to live during the time of the Second World War. The ship is ported in San Pedro at the Port of LA. 

The US Navy used this ship back in the 2nd World War. Inside it, you will see missiles, weaponry, and the crews’ living quarters. It Is not an adults-only art gallery; kids can also visit here. 

The MMSD

The place has some of the most significant collections of marine vessels. It has the Star of India, USS Dolphin, An Iron Bark from the 19th Century, a submarine for research, and some other ships. This place also has various hands-on exhibits for children. 

This art gallery is another ultimate venue for tourists who have a lot of interest in all things nautical. Situated on San Diego Bay, this place has breathtaking backdrops and surroundings. The art gallery has been active since 1948. 

The MNH in LA

More than 35 million specimens and other historical artifacts are housed in these art galleries, some of which go back billions of years ago. Yes, we are talking about dinosaurs!

Planning to visit LA? You should make sure that you see the Natural History Museum in LA. It is a fascinating art gallery, and everyone in your family will enjoy it. 

The NSMP

This place was once known as the Pasadena Institute of Art. But now it has been turned into an art gallery. It is a type of art gallery that plays with the minds of its visitors with its range of different stunning artifacts and exhibits. 

If you are interested in foreign arts, you will be pretty excited to have a look at the Asian and European art pieces at this museum. 

Recent exhibitions include The Swineherd by Paul Gauguin, By Day & By Night: Paris in the Belle Epoque, 1888, and Beyond the World We Know: Abstraction in Photography. You can expect many more exhibitions in this museum in future years. 

The LACMA

The southern part of the state has many art galleries, including the LA County Museums of Air or LACMA. This iconic place has appeared in many Hollywood movies due to its visual appeal. It was established back in 1961, and it has been showcasing diverse artworks since that time. 

It also hosts temporary exhibits, and the most recent ones have been Japan: Emptiness Overflowing, Cauleen Smith: Give It or Leave It, and Sam Francis. This place also holds other film screenings and concerts on different special occasions.

Honorable Mentions

Southern California is a pretty massive region, and it also has many art galleries. Therefore, just mentioning the above few weren’t going to cut it. So here are a few more for you to consider.

Bowers in Santa Ana 

It is located in Orange County, Santa Ana, and has a mission revival style of design and outlook. Furthermore, it has a comprehensive collection of global art available in diverse forms. 

More than 100,000 pieces of art are located here, and it features pre-Columbian, Mesoamerican, and Native American art. It was established in 1936 and had many notable artifacts from around the globe. 

Music Making Museum

If you are passionate about it, you shouldn’t miss a tour of this place on your Southern California trip. This place is bright-colored and filled with fun, and it is a top choice for families and all music lovers. 

It might feature some contemporary furnishings, but the exhibits follow a proper timeline that includes the past. Moreover, you will find some old and new musical instruments, photographs, and other memorabilia here. 

You can also find how these instruments are made, marketed, and used. In addition, the place hosts many live events and shows from time to time. Therefore, you must keep an eye on its website to stay updated. 

Guinness in LA

If you are curious about different trivial facts about the world and want to know who’s the tallest person in the world and when the short or similar others found facts and Guinness records, this art gallery is the best place for you to visit. It is just a short walk away from Highland Center and Hollywood. 

The PSAM

This place is located in the Palm Spring region. It focuses on the importance of air power during World War II and how it helps understand the liberty American citizens enjoy nowadays. 

You will see several different old items that the military used during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Some of these aircraft are still flyable and are in pretty good condition. 

In addition, the art gallery has a gallery of pilots, including both dead and alive, and they have participated in the most significant conflict of human history. 

Takeaway

Southern California might be famous for its sunny beaches and extraordinary coastlines, but it also has many landmarks, one of which is its beautiful and unique themed museums. 

From dinosaurs to WW2 and everything in between, you will find many art galleries in the state’s southern region. 

Make sure you do include these museums in your Southern California tour, and you will live with a rich experience to share with your family and friends.