Located in Sacramento just one block from the California State Capitol, The California Museum serves as the state history museum of California. Housed within the March Fong Eu Secretary of State Building complex, this unique institution highlights the state's rich heritage with a strong focus on its diverse populations, women, and underrepresented groups.
When you visit, you will explore compelling long-term signature exhibitions such as 'California Indians: The First People' and 'Gold Mountain: Chinese Californian Stories.' You can also experience 'Uprooted: An American Story,' which features an AI-based display allowing interactive virtual conversations with Japanese American World War II incarceration survivors. Additionally, you will discover the Unity Center, 'Women Inspire: California Women Changing Our World,' the Constitution Wall, and 'California Missions: A Journey Along the El Camino Real.' A major highlight is the California Hall of Fame, established in 2006, which displays annually updated personal artifact loans from famous inductees spanning entertainment, activism, sports, and innovation—including figures like Steve Jobs, Serena Williams, and Dolores Huerta.
As the only Sacramento museum to earn the American Alliance of Museums' Excellence in Exhibition Award, it provides an inspiring look into the people who shaped California.
What to see at The California Museum
- California Hall of Fame featuring personal artifacts from state inductees
- 'Uprooted: An American Story' with interactive AI conversations with WWII incarceration survivors
- The Unity Center celebrating California's diverse peoples and cultures
- 'Gold Mountain' detailing Chinese Californian history from the Gold Rush to today
- 'Women Inspire' spotlighting influential women from the 18th century onward
Visiting tips
Make sure to check out the annual California Hall of Fame exhibit to view rare personal items on loan from famous inductees.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
The California Museum is easy to reach on Sacramento’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Crocker Art Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Sacramento travel guide.
See the full Sacramento travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.