Dedicated in the year of 1990, the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Orange County is both a library and the final resting place of both President Richard Nixon and his wife, First Lady Pat Nixon. At one time, it was known as the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace, but when the library and museum were renovated in 2016, its name also changed. Today, visitors see technological exhibits, historical pieces from the president’s time in office. Interestingly, there were problems with many of President Nixon’s private papers and what should happen to them after he resigned from office. He was, after all, impeached for the Watergate scandal in the early 1970s. The infamous Nixon tapes remained at the National Archives, which again, proved problematic for those wishing to have them at the museum. Today, the museum is complete with the renovations in place.

The Irvine Museum Collection, located at the University of California – Irvine, was donated by the school in thelater part of the year 2016. It is not working to construct a new museum to house what it expects will be many historical donations. The current Irvine Collection includes art that defines the Gold Land of California. Much of the artwork is linked to Mother Nature and the “splendor of nature fascinated artists.” We agree. The paintings are spectacular and this educational museum is a must-see for families.

Have you waited your entire life to see an ice age fossil? Then you most absolutely need to visit the Ralph B. Clark Regional Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a number of local geology exhibits and Mother Nature at her finest. The park offers its interpretive center, many trails, fishing, wildlife and of course, the park gallery.

For the younger children, Moms and Dads might find the Pretend City Children’s Museum right up their alley. This fun children’s museum brings to life museum features through at least 17 unique, interactive, and knowledgeable exhibits. Each is designed as smaller interconnected features that are linked together, making the most of a learning opportunity. With the goal to build better brains, children are encouraged to engage the hands-on learning experiences, role playing, and educational programming. The museum also offers a number of community resources, including developmental screenings and tools for families, educators and community agencies.

Always a favorite, families love the Discovery Cube OC. This extensive and sizeable museum has offered hands-on educational museum and focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) proficiency. Many schools in the region often coordinate annual field trips which can include outdoor adventures, such as hiding trails.

Last but not least, we take a look at a classic favorite, the Orange County Museum of Art, or OCMA. This important museum is located where diverse artistic exhibitions pack an artistic punch. If you visit, be sure to see the California-Pacific Triennial collection. This spectacular effort is all about the architecture and how it influences everything, often in chain reaction motions. It’s a fascinating museum that leaves you questioning everything you thought you knew.