
El Monte Historical Museum
El Monte, CA
By Simir Shah
★★★★★4.6(36 Google reviews)
A surprisingly deep little community museum with everything from pioneer-era artifacts to relics of the old Gay's Lion Farm that once roared on the edge of town. It's free and rarely crowded, so kids can wander the period room displays at their own pace. Go on a weekday morning, since it's closed Friday through Sunday.
Good for
- Ages 3–5
- Ages 6–9
Happening near here
- Levitt VIBE Pasadena Music SeriesPasadena · 8 mi · Sat 6–10pmFree
- Smorgasburg LALos Angeles · 12 mi · Sun 10am–4pm
- Eat|See|Hear Outdoor MoviesLos Angeles · 12 mi · Sat 5:30pm gates
- Grand Performances Free Summer ConcertsLos Angeles · 12 mi · Sat eveningsFree
3150 Tyler Ave, El Monte, CA 91731, USA
Hours via Google — confirm before a special trip.
Free
Map
What visitors say
- Gale Family★★★★★
I have grown up in the San Gabriel Valley my whole life and this place is a true hidden gem! The rich history displayed throughout their exhibits and the knowledgeable staff left me wanting to come back and learn more. Chuck was extremely knowledgeable and gave me alot of information about the history of not just El Monte, but the whole San Gabriel Valley. They even had a Stanely Steamer that was used on Opening Day of Disneyland, and a Rolls Royce that was used by President Roosevelt and Winston Churchill.
6 months ago
- Maria Dragonas★★★★★
Staff is friendly, and there are a variety of historical items to see. The museum is set up into sections so it feels like you're going back in time to explore a downtown local. It's clean, and there are bits of history everywhere with an explanation for all. Staff is also available for any question you may have. No tickets or fees necessary to enter.
4 years ago
- BISTRO PODCAST★★★★★
What a wealth of American history is here in this small museum. Loved the tour guide and being able to absorb so much without a huge crowd like in other larger museums...if ever in the area come visit. Loved that white RR!! Thank you
5 years ago
- Ana Muneton★★★★★
Very interesting place. Has lots and lots of old stuff. Most of the things were donated by people living at El Monte.
a year ago
- Aaron Massey★★★★★
No complaints here! From lovely pictures, awesome artifacts to Donna Crippen, the museums curator, it's just a VERY pleasant experience! She is EXTREMELY knowledgeable and as we all know, knowledge is power. She takes her knowledge and all the years of her living in El Monte and a love for what she does, combine all those ingredients and like an exquisite dish of rich historical food for the mind, Donna is the executive chef of ALL things El Monte. There's such a pleasant at home feeling the second you walk through that front door and see beyond the Stanley Steamer and find Mrs. Crippen greeting you with a smile; eager to share the wealth of one of California's most historical and influential towns. From the "Pioneer" room to the majestic El Monte Police Department display, this former county library invites you to come back again and again. There's so much to learn that it's impossible to take it all in in just one visit! Bring the family. Bring the class. Take the tour from one of the friendly docents or come alone to take it all in at your own pace. A nice perk is that it won't cost you 1¢ for admission. They kindly accept donations. After all, where are you going to find such "priceless" treasures of California's past?! Well, in El Monte...
13 years ago
Reviews from Google · See more on Google Maps
Nearby places
Love finding spots like this?
Get our best family things to do near you in one weekly email — free outings, weekend picks and local tips. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.