
Bigfoot Discovery Museum
A quirky museum dedicated to Bigfoot, featuring eyewitness accounts, artifacts, and pop culture history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal time

Bigfoot Discovery Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A quirky museum dedicated to Bigfoot, featuring eyewitness accounts, artifacts, and pop culture history.
"One of the best experiences for a bigfoot enthusiast. Lots of information, sightings, photos, videos, etc!"

Chat with the Curator! 🗣️
Michael, the curator, is a wealth of knowledge and has a fascinating personal story. Don't miss the chance to talk with him!
Plan for Felton's Charm 🌲
The museum is small but worth the drive. Explore the cool little town of Felton and its beautiful redwoods.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Curator's Personal Collection
Main Exhibit Hall
See a vast array of Bigfoot ephemera, from footprint casts to pop culture items, gathered by a lifelong eyewitness.

Original Artwork & Artifacts
Gallery Walls
Admire unique artwork and intriguing artifacts related to Bigfoot sightings and lore.

Interactive Displays
Throughout the Museum
Engage with charts, maps, and videos that detail Bigfoot sightings and evidence.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Bigfoot Hunters
Support a Passion Project
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chat with the Curator! 🗣️
Michael, the curator, is a wealth of knowledge and has a fascinating personal story. Don't miss the chance to talk with him!
Plan for Felton's Charm 🌲
The museum is small but worth the drive. Explore the cool little town of Felton and its beautiful redwoods.
Donate Generously 🙏
This museum is a passion project. Your donations help keep the Bigfoot legend alive!
Photo Ops Galore! 📸
Plenty of great opportunities to capture unique photos of the exhibits and the museum's quirky charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
Chat with the Curator! 🗣️
Michael, the curator, is a wealth of knowledge and has a fascinating personal story. Don't miss the chance to talk with him!
Plan for Felton's Charm 🌲
The museum is small but worth the drive. Explore the cool little town of Felton and its beautiful redwoods.
Donate Generously 🙏
This museum is a passion project. Your donations help keep the Bigfoot legend alive!
Photo Ops Galore! 📸
Plenty of great opportunities to capture unique photos of the exhibits and the museum's quirky charm.
Embrace the Mystery 🕵️
Go in with an open mind and enjoy the journey into the world of cryptids and folklore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bigfoot Discovery Museum for its extensive collection of Bigfoot ephemera, curated with passion by eyewitness Michael Rugg. Many highlight the opportunity to interact with the knowledgeable curator and appreciate the unique artifacts and pop culture displays. While some note its small size, most agree it's a worthwhile destination for enthusiasts, especially when combined with the charm of Felton and the surrounding redwoods.
"As true believers we were thrilled to have the opportunity to visit the Bigfoot Discovery museum. An in-depth, extensive and rich curated collection of Bigfoot ephemera gathered by a real Bigfoot eye witness! From castings to pop culture items, charts, maps, and videos. We loved it so much. Please visit and donate generously!"
Darlene Aaron
"Wonderful original art, information, and footprint casts. I loved it. Small but worth the drive. Plan to stay in Felton for a few hours. It’s a cool little town with friendly people and beautiful redwoods."
Molly Ireland
"One of the best experiences for a bigfoot enthusiast. Lots of information, sightings, photos, videos, etc! Could spend hours reading and looking through everything! Great photo opportunities! Mike is great to talk to and hear his story!"
Landrie Gainey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bigfoot Discovery Museum is located in Felton, California, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It's accessible by car, and many visitors find it a scenic drive through Highway 9. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited during peak times.
Yes, the museum is located in Felton, which is a short drive from the city of Santa Cruz. It's a popular stop for those exploring the Santa Cruz County area.
Driving is the most common method. If you're coming from further afield, you might fly into San Jose International Airport (SJC) and then rent a car for the approximately 1-hour drive to Felton.
Public transportation options directly to Felton can be limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for the best experience exploring the area around the museum.
The drive along Highway 9 can be winding and scenic, typical of mountain roads. Be prepared for slower speeds and enjoy the redwood forest scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, and it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current pricing. Donations are also highly encouraged to support the museum's operations.
Operating hours can change, especially seasonally. It's recommended to check the museum's official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.
Typically, advance booking isn't required for general admission, but it's always a good idea to check their website, especially if you plan to visit during a special event or holiday.
The museum is a smaller, independent establishment. While efforts are made to accommodate visitors, it's advisable to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.
Holiday hours can differ. It's crucial to verify their schedule directly with the museum before planning a visit on a public holiday.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a curated collection of Bigfoot ephemera, including alleged footprint casts, photos, videos, historical accounts, and pop culture memorabilia. It's a deep dive into the lore.
While the museum is relatively small, enthusiasts can easily spend a couple of hours poring over the detailed exhibits and chatting with the curator. Plan for at least 1-2 hours.
The museum can be fascinating for older children interested in mysteries and folklore. However, the content is geared more towards adults and enthusiasts of cryptids.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always polite to ask the curator if you plan on extensive shooting or using flash.
It's renowned for its extensive collection of Bigfoot-related artifacts and memorabilia, curated by a lifelong eyewitness, making it a significant stop for enthusiasts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically offer food services. However, the charming town of Felton has several local eateries and cafes nearby where you can grab a bite.
Felton offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to local pubs. You can find places serving everything from sandwiches to more substantial meals.
It's generally best to consume outside food and drinks before or after your visit to maintain the integrity of the exhibits. Check with the museum staff if you have specific needs.
Felton and the surrounding Santa Cruz area are known for their farm-to-table options and local produce. Exploring the nearby towns can lead to delightful culinary discoveries.
Many visitors enjoy the casual atmosphere of Felton's local cafes for a quick and satisfying meal after their museum visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum offers unique photo opportunities with its various footprint casts, quirky displays, and the chance to capture the essence of Bigfoot lore. The exterior also provides a distinctive backdrop.
Selfies are generally permitted, but be mindful of other visitors and the delicate nature of some exhibits. Always ask if unsure.
The various footprint casts and the museum's entrance often make for popular photo spots. The curator himself can also be a great subject if he's open to it!
Lighting can vary within the museum. Some areas might be dimly lit to preserve artifacts, while others are brighter. Be prepared to adjust your camera settings accordingly.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the highlights. If you're a photography enthusiast, a DSLR or mirrorless camera can offer more flexibility, but be respectful of the space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕵️ Cryptid Enthusiasts & Believers
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Man Behind the Museum: Michael Rugg
This dedication is what saved the museum from closing during challenging times. A GoFundMe campaign, supported by a strong community of Bigfoot believers, helped raise funds to keep the doors open, underscoring the profound impact the museum and Rugg have on their visitors. Visiting the museum isn't just about seeing exhibits; it's about connecting with a personal quest and supporting a passionate individual's dream.
Bigfoot in Pop Culture and Lore
This exploration of Bigfoot in pop culture offers a fascinating contrast to the more scientific or evidence-based displays. It highlights how the idea of Bigfoot has evolved and been adapted across different media, making the museum a comprehensive look at the phenomenon. Visitors can see how the legend has been shaped and reshaped, offering a unique perspective on cryptozoology and its place in society.
Exploring Felton and the Redwoods
The proximity to the redwoods means that a visit to the museum can easily be combined with a hike or a scenic drive through towering trees. This combination of quirky roadside attraction and natural wonder makes for a memorable day trip. The area provides a perfect backdrop for the Bigfoot theme, adding to the overall mystique and adventure of the visit.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit