Activities for Kids

12 Bay Area Museums You’ve Never Visited

These small, local museums are an easy (and cheap) way to find adventure in your own backyard.

By Amber Guetebier February 28, 2014

Maybe you’ve heard of some of these museums, but we bet you haven’t yet explored these hidden gems with your kids. These small, local museums are an easy (and cheap) way to find adventure in your own backyard. Keep in mind that many of the museums on this list are staffed by volunteers so it’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm opening hours. Flip through the gallery to begin your adventure.

Dunsmuir Hellman Estate, East Bay

This sprawling acreage in the heart of Oakland is like a mini Downton Abbey and includes a mansion, a carriage house, meadows, ponds, gazebos, and more. It’s open for holiday events including an annual Easter Egg hunt, Mother’s Day High Tea, and Gatsby Night but you can tour the mansion on Wed. at 11 a.m. from April through Sept.

Hours: Tues-Fri 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: Event costs vary, tours are $5/adults; $4/child
Ages: All Ages

2690 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, Ca (510-615-5555 or dunsmuir-hellman.com)

Photo credit: Dunsmuir Hellman Estate

What’s your favorite hidden museum in the Bay Area? Let us know in the comments below!

—Amber Guetebier