California Museum | Sacramento

The California Museum, located in Sacramento, is the official state history museum of California. It is dedicated to showcasing the rich history, diverse cultures, and impactful contributions of the people who have shaped the Golden State. The museum is housed in the Secretary of State building complex in downtown Sacramento, near the State Capitol.

Overview and Mission

The California Museum aims to educate and inspire visitors by celebrating California’s diverse heritage and ongoing legacy of innovation, civil rights, and cultural evolution. It features both permanent and changing exhibitions that explore topics such as Native American heritage, the Gold Rush, immigration, social justice, innovation, the arts, and the state’s dynamic political history.

Key Permanent Exhibits

California Hall of Fame
Launched in 2006 in collaboration with the Office of the Governor, this exhibit honors legendary Californians who have made significant contributions in fields such as arts, education, public service, science, and athletics. Inductees include people like Walt Disney, Steve Jobs, Dolores Huerta, and Serena Williams.

Health Happens Here
This interactive exhibit focuses on how health is influenced by the environments in which we live, including housing, education, and neighborhood conditions. It aims to show how policies and choices can lead to healthier communities.

California Indians: The First People
This exhibit, created in partnership with California tribal communities, explores the history, culture, and resilience of the state’s first inhabitants. It includes artifacts, storytelling, and information on contemporary Native American life in California.

Uprooted! Japanese Americans During WWII
This powerful exhibit tells the story of Japanese Americans in California who were forcibly removed and incarcerated during World War II, focusing on personal stories, historical documents, and legal consequences of Executive Order 9066.

Women Inspire: California Women Changing Our World
This exhibit spotlights California women who have influenced change in areas such as science, social justice, politics, and the arts. It features historical figures and contemporary changemakers alike.

Other Features

Rotating Exhibits
The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on various aspects of California’s art, culture, and history, often in partnership with community organizations and schools.

Educational Programs
The museum offers guided tours, workshops, and school outreach programs. Educational content aligns with California state curriculum standards and is designed for students from kindergarten through high school.

Events and Public Programs
The museum frequently organizes lectures, panel discussions, family days, and cultural celebrations to engage the public on issues relevant to California's past and present.

Building and Location

Address: 1020 O Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

It’s within walking distance of the California State Capitol and is often included in civic and educational tours of Sacramento.

The museum’s design includes contemporary gallery spaces, interactive installations, and multimedia elements that make the experience engaging for both children and adults.

Cultural and Civic Significance

The California Museum plays a vital role in preserving and promoting awareness of the state’s multifaceted history. It serves not only as a repository of historical artifacts but also as a platform for dialogue on issues like civil rights, identity, and the environment. Through its exhibits and programs, the museum reflects the innovation, struggles, and spirit of California's people.

If you're visiting Sacramento or want to understand California’s identity on a deeper level, the California Museum is a key destination.