Where to go. What to see. How to get there.

We have museums! Up and down US Highway 395 in the Eastern Sierra and in adjacent communities near Death Valley and nearby Nevada there are museums that protect the artifacts, stories, and history of our region. Stories of the people who came before, the First Nations and the traditional ways; the explorers and adventurers who braved the unknown; the movie stars and makers of fantasy and fiction; the scientists, writers, artists, and environmentalists; and all the strange and wonderful tales of life in the Eastern Sierra are here to learn and experience in modern museums and old ghost towns.

Click on image below to download a printable PDF guide.

Visitors who journey along this scenic stretch of California highway, and our locals, tell us of the awe and inspiration they feel from time spent in these delightful museums. Some come away with a deeper understanding of life in the old days, others find fulfillment in the expressions of art, and most simply enjoy the moments of wonder and fun.

The list of museums (including a few points of historical interest) in this guide covers a large variety of subjects; it’s as diverse as the area it covers is large. From rocket science to dinosaur fossils and movie magic to ghost towns, and a whole lot more, there’s something to thrill all lovers of learning. Many of these marvelous museums are located along US-395 from Ridgecrest to Mono Lake. A few cluster in the heart of the desert in Death Valley and the Amargosa Valley; and some lonely outposts long for visitors to see their attractions in the outback of Nevada.

Because of the size and topography of the area some museums are closed or not recommended during the months of extreme weather experienced in the Eastern Sierra. The deserts are very hot in summer, and snow restricts access to some locations in winter. There’s so much to see and many opportunities to see these, so plan your visits according to time, topic, and temperature. We can help you answer the questions, “what, where, and when?” and get you on a road to amazing discoveries and incredible learning.

Call us (760) 873-8405, email us , and come in and see us at 690 N. Main Street in Bishop. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff can answer your questions, provide maps, give directions, and help you make the best decisions to have a good time exploring and learning about the history of our big backyard.