Living in a Southern California community with Taylor Morrison means access to a wealth of museums, historical sites and cultural activities. When you’re ready to get out of the house for some educational fun, consult this simple guide to plan a weekend of learning and good times.
Get out there history buffs!
ORANGE COUNTY
Camden Square in Lake Forest
Guided tours of the historical buildings at Heritage Hill Park are available to the public Wednesday through Sunday. 4+ acres of park feature structures that span the early history of the Saddleback Valley and El Toro.
Tour another National Historic Landmark nearby at the Modjeska House and Gardens. Docent led tours are just five dollars.
Lighthouse in Costa Mesa
Discover 200 years of Costa Mesa history at Estancia Park. Visit the Diego Sepulveda adobe home and learn about the mastodon bones unearthed nearby.
Book tickets at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts or immerse yourself in art classes or unique exhibits at the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity.
Echo 56 in Newport Beach
See a Newport Beach icon from a different point of view. Relive the old-time magic of Balboa Island with the Balboa Island Museum & Historical Society.
Immerse yourself in both modern and contemporary exhibitions at the famed Orange County Museum of Art.
>> Discover Echo 56 in Newport Beach
Capella, Saviero, & Welton in Irvine
Dedicated to the preservation and display of early 20th Century California impressionist paintings, the Irvine Museum is a must see for lovers of the arts. Regular docent led tours depart Thursdays at 11:15am.
Consult the University of California Irvine Art Gallery website for current exhibits.
>> Explore Capella
>> Discover Saviero
>> Welton at Beacon Park
Sea Summit in San Clemente
Casa Romantica Cultural Center & Gardens is an idyllic getaway for special events, unique art exhibitions and gorgeous strolls through a botanical paradise.
Revive San Clemente’s famous surf history at the popular Surfing Heritage and Culture Center. Catch a wave and Hang 10!
>> Visit Sea Summit in San Clemente
Pacifica San Juan in San Juan Capistrano
A year in San Juan Capistrano just isn’t complete without an annual trip to the Historical Mission and Museum. This well-known landmark is the stalwart centerpiece of the old town and where the city’s history begins.
Whale watching, tall ships and more at the Ocean Institute.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY
Cottages at St. Cloud in Oceanside
Oceanside is home to several fantastic facilities.
The Oceanside Museum of Art features much more than standard exhibitions. Visitors find lectures, film presentations, concerts and even culinary events.
The California Surf Museum helps you capture the thrill of the surfing lifestyle and the Old Mission San Luis Rey is a gateway to San Diego’s past.
>> Explore Cottages at St. Cloud
Elms in San Diego
Discover a world of underwater mysteries at the Birch Aquarium and try the exciting new Infinity Cube!
Explore the historic early 1800s adobe ranch house at Los Peñasquitos Canyon. Grounds and trails open daily. Museum Friday-Tuesday and adobe house tours at 11am on Saturday or 1pm on Sunday.
Seagrove in Carlsbad
The largest museum of its kind on the world, the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum in Carlsbad is a must see. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9am to 4pm.
Observe a glimpse of the area’s farming past with a visit to the forming working ranch, Leo Carrillo Park.
Estancia at Cielo in Rancho Santa Fe
See how the Lux Institute is redefining the art museum experience. Experience the complete art journey in an interactive studio environment.
Established in 1985, the Rancho Santa Fe Historical Society preserves the community’s history by connecting residents to the past, present and future.
LA COUNTY
Magnolia at West Covina
Enter the factory and tour the renowned Huy Fong Food Company where Sriracha hot sauce is made.
The LA Arboretum hosts a wide range of fantastic events as well as maintaining gorgeous botanical gardens.
Sol y Mar in Rancho Palos Verdes
The Palos Verdes Heritage Castle Museum offers a look into the regions pirate and whaling past. The expansive 1929 Tuscan estate sits among pristine views of rugged Pacific coastline.
Visit the Wayfarers Chapel for classes and musical events.
