California Heritage Museum

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For a trip back in time, check out the latest exhibit at this museum housed in one of Santa Monica’s few surviving grand Victorian mansions – this one built in 1894. Curators do a wonderful job presenting pottery, colorful tiles, craftsman furniture, folk art, vintage surfboards and other fine collectibles in as dynamic a fashion as possible.

To see locals at play, come during the Sunday morning farmers market and Tuesday gourmet-food-truck nights, in the museum’s parking lot. Bring a blanket, and hang out on the lawn.

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

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Nearby attractions

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5. Binoculars Building

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6. International Chess Park

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7. Original Muscle Beach

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8. Tongva Park

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