Top National museums in Santa Cruz, United States

Absolutely love this place! It’s free and full of wonderful information for all ages. I’ve been twice and really enjoyed both visits.

Very friendly team members. Exhibits are educational about the Pacific Coast, highlighting the work to preserve the coast line and habitat. I was very impressed with the exhibit describing the process to make packing materials out of oster shells.

Went here on a whim and was pleasantly surprised that it was free admission! The exhibits are very lovingly put together, and I fully recommend going here with little ones for some learning time. The staff was also very friendly.

I love this place! I've walked by it so many times and finally made time to go in. I was not disappointed! Volunteers greeted me right away, gave me an overview of the museum, and were helpful throughout my visit. There is a lot of great information about the marine sanctuary animals and plant life, and conservation and sustainability tips. Admission is free, and I was happy to purchase a few souvenirs from their cute gift shop that had a lot of great items at fairly reasonable prices (for a gift shop!). I highly recommend visiting, whether you have a half hour or a couple hours.

Bought a cap to support them and then watched the video that was playing in a loop. It was awesome! I wish my kids were with me (they were at the amusement park on the rides). I will definitely bring my kids here next time and get them to sit down without their phones and enjoy the place and the video presentation.

Nice educational center that’s free to public. It primary focuses on the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It’s a great place for kids and adults that are interested in the marine sanctuary located across the street. Make sure to stop by and visit while you’re in Santa Cruz. They also have a nice little gift shop on the ground floor.

We love free stuff!!! Free admission to check out the visitors' center. lot's of information on marine life in the area. Right on the boardwalk! Kid friendly, staff were the kindest. Since they live off donations, it would be helpful to support them!

Fabulous place to visit! Exploration center is for all ages not just for kids and it's free. So much to learn and discover about the Monterey Bay Coast and Marine life. Staff and volunteers are very knowledgeable and helpful. I'd highly recommend going there for 1- 2hrs, watch movies go through the exhibits and learn interesting facts.