Most Unique Museums In Orange County

(credit: Pretend City)

These unique museums provide visitors with experiences that are hard to come by outside of Orange County. Adults and children alike will be interested in the distinctive educational exhibits that highlight topics such as the ocean, surf culture, science, art and history.

(credit: Pretend City)

Pretend City Children's Museum
29 Hubble
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 428-3900
www.pretendcity.org

Help build your child's imagination at Pretend City Children's Museum. Kids can experience adventures in several professional fields such as art, finance, government and construction. By acting, painting, managing money, building and serving, kiddos will get to explore diverse careers in a hands-on environment. Learn more about the special interactive exhibits devoted to helping children find what they to be when they grow up here.

(credit: OC Parks)

Arden: Helena Modjeska Historic House And Gardens
25151 Serrano Road
Lake Forest, CA 92630
(949) 923-2230
www.ocparks.com

Take a journey back in time at the household of Shakespearean actress Helena Modjeska. You can explore her beautiful home tucked away in the canyons off of Santiago Creek and peruse the landscaped gardens. This national landmark was named after Shakespeare's play "As You Like It" because of its similarity to the story's picturesque setting, Forest of Arden. Tours last approximately an hour and a half and will give you the scoop on the the actress' majestic home and lifestyle. Be sure to call ahead to book your tour; visits are by appointment only.

(credit: Surfing Heritage Foundation)

Surfing Heritage Foundation
110 Calle Iglesia
San Clemente, CA 92672
(949) 388-0313
www.surfingheritage.org

Immerse yourself in surf culture at the Surfing Heritage Foundation. The organization provides visitors with information regarding the history of surfing and helps present the sport to new generations. Learn more about iconic surfers, check out artwork devoted to surfing and take a look at the surfboard collection at this special-interest museum. Who knows, you may have yet to discover a new passion. Stay posted on all things surf-related on the Surfing Heritage Foundation website.

Discovery Science Center
2500 N. Main St.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 542-2823
www.discoverycube.org

Broaden your child's horizons at Discovery Science Center; kiddos will be entertained while also honing skills in educational disciplines. During your visit, you can interact with Discovery Science Center's latest exhibit, "Da Vinci's Workshop," that explores inventions developed by Da Vinci himself. The exhibit will help visitors learn more about science, art and history in a fun environment.

(credit: Ocean Institute)

Ocean Institute
24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 496-2274
www.ocean-institute.org

Orange County's prime location provides many with the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. The Ocean Institute enables visitors to delve even deeper into sea life by examining an array of astonishing sea creatures, oceanography, history and science. Through the various opportunities to explore ocean life, the Ocean Institute educates, informs and encourages preservation of this natural habitat. The organization even hosts whale-watching tours off Dana Point. You will be amazed by the creatures right in front of your eyes. Learn more about the educational exhibits, tours and cruises offered at the Ocean Institute on the website. You can even book field day trips for classes.

Stacy Brecht is a professional writer, dancer, marketer and model in the Los Angeles area. Brecht also enjoys traveling, wine, fitness training, volunteering, movies and trying new restaurants. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.