The Best Museums Near Mountain View, California: A Guide to Must-See Exhibits

Mountain View, California is a city known for its tech giants and innovative startups, but did you know that it also boasts a variety of world-class museums? Whether you're a local or just passing through, these museums are worth a visit. In this article, we'll take a look at the best museums near Mountain View, their geo-locations, specific exhibit highlights, and parking and accessibility information.

Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University

Located just 7 miles from Mountain View, the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University is a must-visit for art lovers. With over 45,000 square feet of exhibition space, the museum boasts an impressive collection of American and European art from the 17th through the 21st century. Notable works include Auguste Rodin's bronze sculpture, The Thinker, and a large collection of works by Jackson Pollock. Parking is available on-site, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Computer History Museum

For tech enthusiasts, the Computer History Museum is a must-visit. Located just 3 miles from Mountain View, the museum traces the evolution of computing, from the abacus to the modern-day smartphone. The museum's exhibits showcase everything from early mechanical calculators to modern-day supercomputers. Visitors can even see the first Apple computer ever made. Parking is available on-site, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

Museum of American Heritage

Located just 4 miles from Mountain View, the Museum of American Heritage is a hidden gem that's well worth a visit. The museum is housed in a historic home and showcases a variety of inventions and innovations that have shaped American history. Highlights include a working antique printing press, a collection of early televisions, and an exhibit on the history of the sewing machine. Street parking is available nearby, and the museum is not wheelchair accessible.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

If you're interested in ancient history, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a must-visit. Located just 20 miles from Mountain View, the museum boasts the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in western North America. Visitors can explore exhibits on ancient Egyptian religion, mummification, and daily life. The museum also features a planetarium and gardens inspired by ancient Egyptian designs. Parking is available on-site, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

The Tech Interactive

Located just 12 miles from Mountain View, The Tech Interactive is a hands-on science and technology museum that's perfect for visitors of all ages. The museum's exhibits allow visitors to explore everything from robotics to virtual reality. Highlights include the Tech Studio, where visitors can design and build their own creations, and the Body Worlds Decoded exhibit, which explores the science of the human body. Parking is available nearby, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.

In conclusion, Mountain View may be known for its tech scene, but it's also home to a variety of world-class museums that are well worth a visit. Whether you're interested in art, technology, or history, there's something for everyone. We hope this guide inspires you to check out these museums and experience the amazing exhibits they have to offer.