Bowers Museum
A Mission Revival gem showcasing global art, from ancient wonders to couture, with engaging exhibits and community events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Bowers Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Mission Revival gem showcasing global art, from ancient wonders to couture, with engaging exhibits and community events.
"It's definitely a place to come back to over and over. Highly recommended for visitors of all ages."
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Don't rush! Many visitors recommend 3+ hours, with some spending six hours and still wanting more.
Check for Free Days 🎉
Santa Ana residents get free Sundays; kids are free on the last Saturday.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World of the Terracotta Warriors
Special Exhibition Hall
Journey to ancient China and stand face-to-face with newly discovered warriors and artifacts.

Sacred Realms: Buddhist Painting
Permanent Collection
Explore a stunning collection of Hindu art and indigenous Taiwanese works, alongside American Impressionism.

Arts of the Pacific Islands
Permanent Collection
Discover intricate artifacts and cultural expressions from the diverse islands of the Pacific.

Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form
Special Exhibition Hall
A vibrant exploration of the dynamic history and artistry of Asian comics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit Duration
Free Entry Opportunities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Don't rush! Many visitors recommend 3+ hours, with some spending six hours and still wanting more.
Check for Free Days 🎉
Santa Ana residents get free Sundays; kids are free on the last Saturday.
Engage with Docents 🗣️
Knowledgeable docents enhance the experience, especially for special exhibits like the Terracotta Warriors.
Explore Beyond Main Exhibits 🗺️
Beyond featured exhibits, discover permanent collections like Chinese and South Pacific artifacts.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Don't rush! Many visitors recommend 3+ hours, with some spending six hours and still wanting more.
Check for Free Days 🎉
Santa Ana residents get free Sundays; kids are free on the last Saturday.
Engage with Docents 🗣️
Knowledgeable docents enhance the experience, especially for special exhibits like the Terracotta Warriors.
Explore Beyond Main Exhibits 🗺️
Beyond featured exhibits, discover permanent collections like Chinese and South Pacific artifacts.
Consider Special Events 📅
The museum hosts lectures and after-hours events, offering unique ways to experience the art.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bowers Museum for its diverse and high-quality collections, particularly its rotating special exhibitions like the Terracotta Warriors. The staff is noted as friendly and professional, and the facility is clean and modern. While some find it manageable in a few hours, many recommend dedicating a full day to truly appreciate everything.
"What an amazing collection this museum has. I was not aware of it until the I vote for an after hours event landed in my email. I highly recommend giving them several hours of your day to have a chance to see everything. I will be back."
Alison Horne
"My family and I went here for the Terracotta Warrior exhibit. It was my first time at this beautiful museum. It's small but we spent about 2 hours exploring it.
The Terracotta Warrior exhibit was excellent. We spent a lot of time there reading and talking to a very knowledgeable docent. After that we checked out the other exhibits in the museum. They were all great. I really like the Chinese and South Pacific artifacts as well. The exhibits on Pico were also very interesting."
Sharon B
"Took the family here during the Terracotta Warriors exhibit. After exploring that, we checked out the other parts.
We were there for six hours and still haven't seen everything.
It's definitely a place to come back to over and over.
Staff was friendly and professional. The facility was clean and modern.
Highly recommended for visitors of all ages."
Annette W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bowers Museum is located at 2002 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92706. It's accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the Main Street corridor.
Yes, the museum offers parking for visitors. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially during peak times or for popular exhibitions, to secure a spot.
From major freeways, take the Main Street exit in Santa Ana. The museum is prominently located on Main Street. Specific directions can be found on the museum's official website or by using GPS navigation.
While specific routes vary, the museum is generally accessible via public transit in Santa Ana. It's recommended to check the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) website for the most current bus routes and schedules that stop near the museum.
The Bowers Museum is located in Santa Ana, which is a short drive from Anaheim, where Disneyland is situated. It's not directly adjacent but is a feasible visit for those staying in the wider Orange County area. [^Bower Museum Disney]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Bowers Museum typically operates from 10 AM to 4 PM, though hours can vary for special events or holidays. It's always best to check the official Bowers Museum website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. [^Bower Museum Hours]
Admission prices can vary depending on current exhibitions. General admission is usually around $15 for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. Special exhibitions may have separate or additional ticket requirements. Check the Bowers Museum website for current pricing. [^Bowers Museum Prices]
Yes, Santa Ana residents can get free entry every Sunday by showing ID at the ticket counter. Also, the last Saturday of the month is Kids Free Story time.
[^Bower Museum Free Day]For popular exhibitions like the Terracotta Warriors, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid long queues. You can buy Bowers Museum tickets online through their official website or at the museum.
[^Bowers Museum Tickets]The museum sometimes offers discounts through partnerships or special promotions. For example, AAA members might receive a discount, and there are free entry days for Santa Ana residents and children. Check the Bowers Museum website for current discount information. [^Bowers Museum Discount]
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the 'World of the Terracotta Warriors' for a glimpse into ancient China. Permanent collections like 'Sacred Realms' (Buddhist painting) and 'Arts of the Pacific Islands' are also highly recommended.
Visitors' experiences vary greatly. Some can see most of the museum in 2-3 hours, while others have spent up to six hours and still haven't seen everything. Plan for at least half a day to explore thoroughly.
Yes, the Bowers Museum has the Kidseum, an interactive children's museum, and many exhibits are engaging for younger visitors. The 'Kids Free Story time' on the last Saturday of the month is a great family event. [^Bowers Kidseum]
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in permanent collection galleries, but it's often restricted in special exhibitions. Always check signage or ask museum staff for clarification.
Yes, the museum often offers guided tours, especially for special exhibitions. These tours can provide deeper insights into the art and history. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or on their website.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Bowers Museum features Tangata, an on-site eatery offering a menu inspired by the museum's global collections. It's a convenient option for lunch or a snack during your visit. [^Tangata Bowers Museum]
Tangata offers a diverse menu with influences from various cultures, reflecting the museum's global art focus. Expect dishes that are both delicious and thoughtfully prepared. [^Tangata Bowers Museum]
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, there might be designated areas for picnics or snacks. It's best to confirm the museum's policy on outside food. [^Bowers Museum Restaurant]
The museum is located in Santa Ana, which has a variety of restaurants and cafes nearby. You can find diverse culinary options within a short drive or walk from the museum. [^Bowers Museum Restaurant]
While menus can change, restaurants inspired by global cuisine often include vegetarian dishes. It's advisable to check Tangata's current menu online or inquire with the restaurant staff upon arrival. [^Bowers Museum Restaurant]
📸 📸 Photography
Non-flash photography is generally allowed in permanent collection areas. However, special exhibitions often have strict no-photography rules to protect the artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not permitted in museum galleries to ensure the safety of artworks and the comfort of other visitors. Check the museum's specific policy for details.
The Mission Revival architecture of the museum itself offers beautiful photo opportunities. The gardens and courtyards are also picturesque. For exhibits, focus on capturing the essence and scale, respecting any photography restrictions.
Yes, you can generally use your phone camera for non-flash photography in areas where photography is permitted. This allows you to capture memories of your visit.
While you can photograph the Terracotta Warriors exhibit, be mindful of any specific restrictions in place for that particular exhibition. The sheer scale and detail of the warriors make for impressive shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make your visit even more enjoyable, take advantage of the 'Kids Free Story time' held on the last Saturday of the month. This event is a wonderful way to introduce children to stories and art in a fun, accessible environment. Planning your visit around these free days can also help manage costs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Additionally, the 'Kids Free Story time' on the last Saturday of the month is a great way for families to experience the museum without an admission fee for children. Even for general admission, checking for any available discounts or coupon codes online before your visit can help reduce costs. [^Bowers Museum Discount]
💖 Couples and Date Seekers
Consider attending one of the museum's after-hours events or lectures for a more intimate and unique date night. The museum's beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere also make it a lovely spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll and discussion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Terracotta Warriors Exhibition
This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to get up close with these ancient figures, many of which have never been displayed before. The museum often provides detailed information and sometimes even knowledgeable docents to enhance the visitor's understanding of the historical context and the significance of these discoveries.
Due to its popularity, it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance for this exhibition. This ensures you can secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment, especially during peak visiting hours or weekends.
Bowers Museum as a Wedding Venue
Couples often praise the museum's distinctive atmosphere, which offers a more memorable setting than traditional banquet halls. The ability to host events within a cultural institution adds a touch of sophistication and charm.
When considering the Bowers Museum for a wedding, it's important to inquire about package details, catering options (often provided by Patina Catering), and available dates. The museum's event team can provide comprehensive information on costs and services to help plan your special day. [^Bowers Museum Wedding Cost]
Free Admission and Community Access
Furthermore, the museum hosts a 'Kids Free Story time' on the last Saturday of each month, encouraging families to engage with art and culture. These initiatives highlight the museum's commitment to making art and history available to a broader audience, fostering a love for learning and creativity. [^Bowers Museum Free]
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