Best Museums Near West Covina, California: Geo-Locations, Exhibit Highlights, and Accessibility

Are you planning a trip to West Covina, California, and looking for the best museums to visit nearby? Look no further! In this article, we have compiled a list of the top museums in the area, along with their geo-locations, specific exhibit highlights, and parking and accessibility information. Whether you are a history buff, art enthusiast, or science nerd, there is something for everyone in this list of must-visit museums near West Covina.

Hurst Ranch Historical Center

Located just 5 miles away from West Covina, Hurst Ranch Historical Center is a hidden gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's agricultural and ranching past. The center is housed in a restored 1920s ranch house and features exhibits on farming equipment, blacksmithing, and livestock. Visitors can take a guided tour of the property, interact with farm animals, and even pick their own fruits and vegetables. Parking is free and accessible, and the museum is wheelchair-friendly.

Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum

If you are a fan of cars and racing, then you will love the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum. Located in Pomona, just 7 miles away from West Covina, the museum is home to an extensive collection of vintage race cars, hot rods, and memorabilia from the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). The highlight of the museum is the interactive exhibit that allows visitors to sit in a real race car and experience what it feels like to go 200 miles per hour. Parking is available for a fee, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

For a more serene and cultured experience, head over to the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, about 14 miles away from West Covina. The museum is home to a vast collection of art and rare books, including the Gutenberg Bible and original manuscripts by William Shakespeare. The botanical gardens are equally impressive, featuring over a dozen themed gardens and a conservatory with rare tropical plants. Parking is available for a fee, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

American Museum of Ceramic Art

Located in nearby Pomona, the American Museum of Ceramic Art is a must-visit for art lovers and pottery enthusiasts. The museum features an extensive collection of contemporary ceramics from around the world, as well as historic pieces dating back to ancient times. The highlight of the museum is the Studio Ceramics Collection, which showcases the works of prominent ceramic artists from the 20th century. Parking is available for a fee, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Planes of Fame Air Museum

If you are fascinated by aviation history, then you will love the Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino, about 17 miles away from West Covina. The museum is home to over 150 aircraft, ranging from World War II-era fighters to modern jets. Visitors can take guided tours of the exhibits and even watch live demonstrations of some of the planes in flight. Parking is available for a fee, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

In conclusion, West Covina and its surrounding areas are home to some of the best museums in California. From historical ranches to high-speed race cars, from rare books to contemporary ceramics, and from beautiful gardens to vintage planes, there is something for everyone in this list of must-visit museums. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a fun-filled and educational adventure through the fascinating world of art, history, and science.