California Museums & Missions

Monterey Museum of Art. The Monterey Museum of Art offers permanent and rotating exhibits of early Californian art and contemporary American artists. Reflecting the cultural heritage of the Central Coast, the Museum's permanent collections and exhibitions include California paintings, sculpture, works on paper, photography, Asian art, international folk art, and bodies of work by Ansel Adams. Visit www.montereyart.org.

Monterey Maritime Museum. Monterey's maritime past comes alive at the Maritime Museum situated across the Custom House Plaza from Fisherman's Wharf. This museum showcases Monterey's seafaring heritage, explaining the role this protected harbor played in early California history and as a home to the US Navy. A treasure hunt for youngsters is held daily, and the gift shop features souvenirs for every sailor at heart.

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Climb the city's beloved Sandy the Whale, a life-sized bronze gray whale sculpture in front of the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Inside, kids learn about the life cycle of one of Pacific Grove's more famous residents - the Monarch Butterfly - and can see the area's native local animals in full life dioramas. A special "kid's corner" allows youngsters to pet a bobcat and quiz themselves on local animals. Admission is free.

Mission San Antonio de Padua. The Mission San Antonio is the third California mission, founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1771. Still a parish church, this historic mission is a wonderful place to picnic, with tables under shaded trees, and enjoy the peace and solitude. Admission is $1.Call 831-385-4478.

Carmel Mission Basilica. Carmel Mission Basilica features significant religious artifacts. Founded by in 1770, the mission is home to a thriving Catholic community. Get a taste of mission life at the museum housing California's first library, a collection of tools, equipment and appliances used by the Spaniards and Native Americans, and the recreated Spartan cell where Serra lived. Call 831-624-3600.