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La Mirada, one of two homes to the Monterey Museum of Art, began as a two-room adobe. Later, the expanded and exquisitely furnished home hosted international and regional celebrities. The gardens recall the charm of early California.
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 Click here for a list of Museums
Click here for a list of Ongoing Exhibitions
 The museums of Monterey County offer the visitor insights into the history and culture of the area. Whether it's painting, sculpture, crafts or photography, local art museums exhibit a variety of colorful and thought-provoking work. Others explore the cultural and natural history of Monterey County through informative and entertaining exhibits.
The Monterey Museum of Art has two locations and features regional, California and Asian art and photography, sculpture and folk art. Nationally accredited, the museum has been called "the best small town museum in the United States." It has a lovely satellite gallery near Lake El Estero, La Mirada, which displays Charlie Russell bronzes, marine art by Armin Hansen, and much more.
The $11 million National Steinbeck Center celebrates the life of native son and novelist John Steinbeck with interactive exhibits that invite participation and discovery. In addition to seven themed galleries, the museum features changing art and cultural exhibits. Steinbeck's Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum dramatizes Monterey's colorful past with over 100 life-sized wax figures, animation, sound effects and narration.
The museum at the Carmel Mission Basilica gives the visitor a glimpse into California mission life with displays of church vestments and other artifacts from the past.
The Maritime Museum of Monterey, located at Custom House Plaza, celebrates the seafaring history of Monterey. Changing special exhibits, historic and naval artifacts, and a two-story 'First Order' fresnel lighthouse lens invite exploration of Monterey's maritime past. There is also a 4000-volume research library. Open Tue-Sun 11am-5pm.
Located 30 miles south of Carmel, The Henry Miller Library showcases the books and artwork of Henry Miller and other artists. Located in a small redwood grove, the library also hosts various music, art and literary events. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 11am to 5pm, and Thursday-Sunday during the winter months.
MY (Monterey County Youth) Museum features exhibits to awaken the creativity and sense of discovery in both adults and children.
The Agricultural and Rural Life Museum in King City is a walk back in time to a period of blacksmiths and one-room schoolhouses. The blacksmith is still at work and the vintage farmhouse gives visitors a view into how people lived one hundred years ago. Antique mining and farming equipment are on display as well as a tack shop, country store and antique printing press. The barn and outdoor displays are open daily from 10am-4pm all year. The other buildings are open weekends, April-October. Free guided tours help make this an enjoyable and educational experience.
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