.Best Museum for the People, by the People

The Oakland Museum of California is the only museum that focuses on California art, history, and natural sciences. It has been exhibiting stories unique to California’s diverse peoples for more than four decades. With recent renovations of the Gallery of California History, Gallery of California Natural Sciences, and Gallery of California Art, it’s a hit with adults and children alike. The museum is known to collaborate with local artists and community members on many initiatives and exhibits, including the newest Pacific Worlds exhibit, which showcases, among other things, the influences of Pacific Islanders on the West Coast — all more accessible with the addition of more weekend hours. And new initiatives that the museum plans on launching this summer, such as the family-friendly “books and blankets” set that includes books selected by the Oakland Public Library, will allow you to spend more quality time together in the outdoor gardens. The wildly popular Friday Nights @OMCA, now in its third year, is just one event that showcases the best of this community, people-driven museum.