California Oil Museum - Santa Paula, California

Michael T.

We take part in the Passport 2 History (look it up if you don't know about it) and three of the passport museums are within walking distance of each other in Santa Paula! So my son and I took a day trip out to Santa Paula. We visited all three museums starting with The California Oil Museum!

This FREE museum has a lot of stuff and has an excellent presentation! What I liked best was that there are a ton of things for little kids to do... push buttons and stuff happens and what not. There is a lot of cool antique gasolina here, signs, bulbs, etc.

You won't spend too-too much time here, but make this your first stop, park in the lot and make your way to the other museums as well. A great day trip!

Sam C.

Went there on a weekend road trip. It had a lot of interesting thing there. We learned about the history of oils drilling and ways we use the oil we pumped up. Our kids were amused.

Jean R.

This museum was decent (much smaller than I expected). I probably wouldn't pay money to come here, so it's a good thing their tickets were free - you just need to get them in advance! The workers here are extremely annoying/strict about not getting too close to the artwork (even if you're not touching them!) Other than that, it was an okay experience.

Steve T.

A small museum with the wider story of oil in California. The exhibits are truly eclectic, but relevant. There's everything from real history and toys, to machinery and films. Then there's also the staff - absolutely brilliant. They care about the subject, they know a lot and they are keen to pass on the information. I'm very pleased that I took time out to visit.

Lissa D.

Fantastic museum. The building is a lovely 1890s structure, with original victorian details. There is an operational oil rig that would delight children and adults alike.

Ben H.

Nice little museum, they have some displays aimed at kids. The full size oil drilling setup from the 1900's is impressive, it is in the side building be sure not to miss it. Unfortunately when I was here the back gallery was closed to set up a new exhibit and we did not get to see the second floor that is only by docent-led tour. This made the museum kinda small so if you can go when those parts are open.

Maria R.

Small museum full of history. Is was our very girls museum in California and it was a great experience. The staff introduced us to their museum passport. (Worth $5) The passport is a book full of museums around California. It includes information about each museum and it has a place for you to collect their stickers/stamps. This is something great to do with kids and get them eager to visit museums. Be sure to stamp a time card when you walk in and walk out of this museum. It makes a great reminder of your experience.

Kyle N.

Really cool for anyone who likes history. A lot of pictures and artifacts that illustrate how different life was for the early adopters of Santa paula and the oil industry in general. Obviously biased to make the oil companies look good, but when you keep that in mind it's still a fun and educational place to go. It's fun and cheap enough where I would go back. The tour of the original offices was my favorite part.