While visiting an old Army buddy in SoCal, it turned out that there was a Patton tank museum about an hour away from his place. After meeting up, we trekked out to visit the museum. Located at exit 173 on I-10 on the way to Arizona, the Patton museum is located on the outskirt of Joshua Tree National Park and the WWII-era Desert Training Center that GEN Patton founded to train tank crews for the North African battlefields. Admission for veterans was $17, not bad. The museum consists of indoor exhibits and outdoor displays. The indoor displays covers Patton's personal history, World War II timeline, and special exhibits such as women in the military, the Nazi "Final Solution," Korean War Medal of Honor recipients, and WWII-era individual weapons. The outdoor exhibits included at least 3 of the 4 U.S. Army tanks named after General Patton, and numerous other vehicles including some from our time in the Army. Probably the best and most interesting exhibit was the M60A1 tank with its turret separated from the chassis. It was great to be able to look at the interior and see its tight dimensions for its crew of four and all the gear. And listening to my buddy (whose Army job was maintaining tank and other armament) explain the specifics of working on the tank cannon. The museum is small but complete. Glad I got a chance to check it out. If you're in the area, it's a good 2-3 hour detour- recommend. read more

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We enjoyed this museum. It's located about 50 minutes east of Palm Dessert or about an hour east of Palm Springs. This privately run and funded museum touches on al aspects of General George Patton's life, from childhood, school, military life and his death. It also touches on and is sited near the Desert Training Facility that trained 100,000 US troops before they went to fight in Africa. The museum is well done and flows "okay". There are many displays full of photos, artifacts, plaques and notes. There's a large room with a lot of war-era artifacts. Some of them are scale models. There is a large outdoor yard with tanks and other heavy military vehicles and artillery. I wasn't able to figure out how to get into that fenced space but I took a few pictures of it from outside the fence. If you follow military history and enjoy museums like this, you'll enjoy the General Patton Memorial Museum. read more

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Great little museum we hit on our way to Palm Springs! My husband got a little bit of discount for being a senior citizen. Definitely worth checking out.Friendly staff! read more

General Patton Memorial Museum - Museums Near Me - Indio, California

Loved this place, the models are cool. I took a little bit of photos since everything in there looked nice. read more

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How can I get this thing to 10 stars!!! Superb military exhibits for every age! Bring the family, just know you will be in the heat!!!

I finally stopped by, after driving by for years, and it was amazing inside. If you love history, then this is a definite must stop! The outside definitely does not match the inside. I love how wonderfully surprised I was the moment I walked in. The memorabilia, the displays, the history, all was wonderful. I can't say enough, but you have to stop! read more

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A WWII museum in SoCal focusing on the life of General Patton. It talks about the military camp that used to be here as well as the life of General George Patton. The museum has many tanks and other items to look at. The museum also has a good 30 minute documentary talking about the camp. read more

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Very informative-worth the stop, nearby cafe is good too, lots of historical significance

This museum was so much more than I expected. I'm a "peace-nik" and not at all supportive of armed conflict. But I understand why Patton and military leadership were backed into a corner by Germany and Italy -- there was no other option than war. Thank goodness the Nazis were defeated. The museum has many, many interesting displays both inside and outside. You could spend a whole day here reading the descriptions and reviewing the photos and artifacts. The presentations are very well done. It was worth the stop. Too bad Patton is not here today, as we are again facing Nazis and their threat to democracy. read more

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When you're driving on the 10 freeway somewhere between Indio and Blythe, you'll pass the General Patton Memorial Museum. If you don't stop, you're a sinner! My grandfather fought in World War II, so this museum brought what my family went through at that time into perspective for me so many years later. Being able to see, touch, and smell so many artifacts in one place was absolutely fabulous! Who doesn't like tanks?! You NEED a picture standing near a tank! Yes, you need it! Spend some time to read the walls, sit in the theatre and watch the movie, peruse the gift shop for some net swag! When you're done you're going to feel like you had a refresher in all of the events of WWII and you know what, you'll be better for it. History repeats itself, but we all hope something like this stays in the past like the dinosaurs. Pro Tip: The café next door has good grub that won't break your budget. read more

We really enjoyed this museum and it was great to learn more about WWII and General Patton. It was cool seeing tanks and other vehicles. read more

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This is a great way to spend a couple hours while learning about the local history as well as Patton and many other facets of our history. And it's not just for male veterans, there are several exhibits about the many contributions made by women and people of color. While it is the General Patton Museum, and much of it is dedicated to him, there is so much more to see. There is even a tank you can sit in, and let me tell you, unless you are comfortable with your knees at ear level, you may not want to sit in that seat! On a solemn note, with all the things happening in our world today, seeing the millions of people who died during the war and in Nazi captivity should remind us of how lucky we really are. Be kind. read more

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Not the most ideal place for a museum, but definitely a must stop. We stopped for gas, and saw there was a museum, café, and souvenir shop in the same parking lot. Everyone in the car shrugged and shared the same "when in Rome" sentiment. My dad is also retired Military, so he was definitely down to check it out. Off we went. It's also my goal to visit one new museum each month, so this checked that off. Extensive information about the area and General Patton, with a lot of artifacts. It's bizarre to think that area was a base camp for soldiers as there's not much around. But I understand why. There is also an area of tanks they used. My my, those things are big! Seeing them on tv and in books do not do them justice. If you read everything like I do, expect to spend over an hour here. They also have a library and computers. If you are working on a project, this would be the perfect place to visit. read more

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A small museum loaded with WW 2 information and a fitting tribute to General Patton. The documentary about General Patton and the desert training grounds was enjoyable. The role of famed vaudevillian and comedian Al Jolson was fascinating also. The outdoor display of various tanks and jeeps was unique. A very pleasant way to spend 2 hours. I'll stop by again. read more

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What an amazing museum! I had been invited for a private tour, and a private screening of the renovations that are taking place at the General Patton Memorial Museum. The new renovations will be unveiled for special grand opening in November 2018. I have been to so many museums over the years and I will say, this was absolutely a true first. I have never been to museum that is solely based on the wonderful tanks that have been used during wartime. This lovely museum is located in Indio California, and he will find it if you were driving anywhere between Los Angeles going towards Arizona. I will say it's absolutely worth the stop, and at the time it will take you to explore everything that they have. By all standards, it's not a gigantic museum, but it absolutely is a nice size museum that's filled with history that some of us have only read about! General Patton memorial museum, is located in the very spot that General Patton himself has been. The indoor portion of the museum is filled with amazing visual history of past wars, and everything is displayed beautifully. The sneak peek that I was given is going to be part of their expanded interior part of the museum. I was granted permission to take a few pictures of what will be part of the sneak preview, but by no means is that everything. This is just a small fraction of what will be part of this incredible display. You will see my pictures attached. The exterior is mind blowing. Like many of us, I have seen pictures of different sized tanks that have been used during wartime, but have never experienced an up close and personal view. As odd as it may sound the tanks are truly a thing of beauty. Our tour guide shows how the tanks have been used, and I'm still amazed at their capability. If all of the wartime artifacts aren't enough, they have a entire restoration area that is filled with some amazing antique cars that are in the process of going through the restorative process. General Patton memorial museum not only is a complete and wonderful experience, but they also have an amazing café that is attached to the museum. It makes for a perfect afternoon. They serve breakfast through late lunch, the prices are extremely reasonable, and parking for both the museum and the café are free. There is even a gas station next-door should you need to fill up before you get on your way. I encourage you to visit this museum, and taken all of the wonderful things that has to offer. read more

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Leave it up to my husband to find a place like this in the middle of no where!!!! We were in the area before it opened so didn't spend time inside. They did have some cool things to see outside. A few Memorial walls from the different wars. Old history & great place to just get out & walk around. read more

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Historic museum! I bookmarked this museum not too long ago not knowing when I'll be able to return to Indio but it turns out sooner than later! I was excited to include this museum in our itinerary during our road trip. It was quite a ways from Big Bear Lake but we've already gone to the two Presidential Libraries (Nixon and Reagan) in SoCal what's another trip further down to Indio. Well, it turns out the museum was actually in Chiriaco Summit, some 31 miles further. The General Patton Memorial Museum is located on the site of General Patton's former Camp Young, which was the Headquarters Camp for the former Desert Training Center from 1942 to 1944. Over one million soldiers trained here before going off to serve in the war. Outside, in front of the museum, is a statue of Patton standing on tank treads and next to him is an English bull terrier puppy that he named Willie. Willie was known to follow Patton everywhere, and the two were rarely separated while in England. The museum has plenty of war memorabilia and a large collection of tanks used in World War II and the Korean War. The museum isn't very big inside but every inch of the room was filled with exhibits including memorabilia from Patton's life and career - especially in regard to his service at the Desert Training Center. Gen. George S. Patton was considered one of the most successful combat generals in U.S. history, he died on December 21, 1945, just 12 days after breaking his neck in a car accident near Mannheim, Germany. So sad that a few hours after that tragic car accident, Patton was due to return back to the US. Wish my Dad was still around. He would've enjoyed this museum. He is not in the military but a minister, who enjoys reading biographies of heroes and world leaders. The rest of my family are in the military- brothers, nephews, and niece. While I enjoyed taking in all what was offered inside the museum it was the tank farm I enjoyed the most! It was hot, hot, hot outside but we spent some time in the back lot taking photos of these mean machines. Fun experience! Review #0795 read more

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Lots of fun for history buffs like my son. He even enjoyed seeing all of the models that have been made and donated. read more

General Patton Memorial Museum - Sat in a tank! - Museums Near Me - Indio, California

Drove by on a trip out to Parker, Arizona and had to stop and check out the history. Old WWII tanks dot the outside of the museum. It was closed when we drove by but would love to drop by with my son to check out the rest. My son did a living history in highschool as General Patton so I know he would be really into the museum as would most history buffs. read more

I've been wanting to come here for awhile, but it had to wait until a staycation in Palm Springs to make the trip here, since its hours away to get to this part of the desert from home. First off, admission for adults is $8, seniors $7, ages 6 and under are free, active military are free as well. It's a small museum and I believe it is not government funded. I appreciate the organizers in building this place dedicated to one of the most decorated generals of all time and honoring the service and sacrifice of United States veterans. Inside the main exhibit are a collection of memorabilia. You'll see on display are antique weapons, uniforms, newspaper paper articles, vehicles, and a seating area for a video documentary. My favorite part of the experience is the tank yard. The heavy artillery surroundings gives you a feel of how it's like when our armed forces do battle in desert heat conditions. Also, inside a pavilion there's more special vehicles on display. We were staying at a resort in Palm Springs and to get here took about 40 minutes. This location is about a halfway point to Arizona, so if you're road tripping, this place is a nice pit stop for an hour or two to educate yourself of General George S. Patton's life and career. read more

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I have been looking forward to coming here for a very long time, but left wanting more. Over the years, I have read several books on Patton and his life. His understanding of logistics, the putting of tanks on flat-bed rail-cars and moving them to other parts of the battle field is legendary. Also, his development of the Desert Training Center (DTC) and Camp Young in the Mojave Desert helped train our troops before and during WWII. This Museum sits at the former entrance of Camp Young. General Patton died in December of 1945, and the Museum should be commended for assembling an impressive collection of tanks. But sadly, almost all are post his death. It could have easily been called a Korean War memorial. The only actual vehicles used by Patton during his life are the trailer (photo) outside and a staff car inside. I have taken pictures of most of the tanks in the grave yard, they include a M4 Sherman (1941), several M26 Pershing (1945), several M41 Walker Bulldog (1947), M48 Patton (1953), along with it's replacement M60 Patton (1963). However, there are no German Panther or Tiger tanks in the exhibit, the main battle tanks Patton fought against. So, "A-OK" Three Stars for a very cool collection of tank memorabilia! read more

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Not much about Patton, but lots of artifacts on WWII and Korean War . There are some items from Vietnam. Most items donated from retired service people. The cool 3-D topo map that is in the middle of the first room is pretty cool. It is $5.00 entry fee which they consider a donation. No problem . Saw some really interesting things and it was a nice break from our drive home from Phoenix. If you are a WWII history buff, this is a place to stop. read more

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What a great museum in the middle of a long drive!! Museum has a lot of great things to see, tons of information, but needs to add more WWII equipment and memorabilia. Wish they had a WWII radio, I was surprised they didn't have a pack radio. Lots of nice parking, beautifully designed. Severa tanks and other military vehicles to check out, they should add more things for the Littles to climb on and explore, get them interested, too!! read more

This was great for looking at the history of General Patton and military memorabilia of the WW1 and WW2. Lots of vehicles including tanks. read more

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How many times have you passed this museum on Interstate 10 going or coming to Coachella and never knew it was there? We did for sure...and we are history buffs! After visiting the Palm Springs Air Museum for a 3rd time, someone suggested since we like history so much we might want to drive up Desert Center and visit the Patton museum. So we decided to go one day and were so pleasantly surprised! We had no idea that General Patton had mapped out over 18,000 square miles to train more than 1 million soldiers to defend the allies against Rummel in the northern deserts of Africa. There are so many tanks that are still on exhibit...wonderful for the kids to explore. We encourage everyone to put down their tennis racquet, golf club and pickleball racquet and spend an afternoon exploring this historical museum and learn about Patton and the soldiers he trained to protect our country. read more

This is a war museum primary the Korean War so themes of massive killing machines are present. These tanks, and the such took lives. Just be mindful of that. The machine doesn't kill like it's some kind of terminator bot, the men pull the triggers whom are ordered from the political elite. The thought is cumbersome because there is a likelihood that some of these machines killed my grandparent's and father's friends or family in turn I may have had extra uncles/aunts/cousins if it weren't for these machines. It's a known fact that I lost two uncles from my late father's tales when he was a 10-13 year old during the 1950-1953 civil war. They weren't soldiers but my papa is from Seoul. On the flip side if the Americans didn't intervene, I and millions of others wouldn't be in America. We would be under the Kim Socialist/Liberal Regime that Bernie Sanders wanted to implement if elected president. Kim Il Sung and Senators Elizabeth Warren/Bernie Sanders have a lot in common before he consolidated power to create a hereditary king-ship with Kim Fatass being the current king. Granted, thanks to the 2nd amendment & the most educated military, such forceful political consolidation won't happen in our lifetimes. This does not mean I dislike America. If you read some of my bantering, it's quite the opposite. It still doesn't prevent my thoughts as I traversed this exhibit and attempt to empathize with the Natives, Slavery or other War Museums when I visit them. War is such a disgusting yet profitable business... As long as there are sinful men on Earth... We will always have wars =/ Man's destructive creations are truly amazing. It's crazy what we can imagine, create, implement, manufacture and utilize when focused on a clear purpose. The majority of America's existence was to fight communist or socialist governments yet many of you retards (mostly californians) want to implement this style of government transcends logic. The power of charismatic men to infiltrate your feeble lamb-like minds is insane. Anyhoo, I digress. Carry on. Long live the revolucion, vive liberte. Access/Roads: Easy access to the main street connecting to gas station & coffee shop restaurant. The lot and adjacent neighborhood is unpaved/dirt road. Parking: Plenty in the dirt lot. Distance: Los Angeles/Orange County is less than two hours with traffic. Phoenix is appx four hours. Vegas is appx five hours. Parker/Lake Havasu is appx 2.5 hrs Palm Springs/desert is less than an hour. Costs: Outdoor Exhibit = Free Indoor Theatrics = $8 adults and less for other peeps. Nearby Attractions: Jeshua Tree NP (Main) Desert View Conservation. Hi-Desert Museum. Morongo Basin Society. 1000 Palms Oasis Preserve. Coachella Valley Historical Museum. And everything Plam Desert/Springs, and the Salton Sea. Other Notes: I-10 (the 10 fwy) is high wind around these necks so drive carefully. read more

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We've been there several times overtheyears and when my children got old enough we took them. I have always loved going each and every time. I'm a General George Patton fan, he's definitely my Favorite Hero! If you're heading to San Diego you really should stop and get a bit of education about A Great War Hero. I send a Huge Basket of love to all our Heroes, Thank you. Carolyn read more

Tanks, war memorabilia and history...oh yeah! Located in Chiriaco Summit, California, right off the I-10 for easy access, is a museum erected in tribute to General George S. Patton. Exhibits include a large collection of tanks used in World War II and the Korean War, as well as memorabilia from Patton's life and career - especially in regards to his service at the Desert Training Center - and from soldiers who trained there. It's a great roadside attraction and fun for the whole family! read more

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Simple, informative, great picture opportunities with tanks :D A great stop for the entire family! This is a small museum, with lots of war artifacts & memorabilia. It's free to go into the museum building, but you have to pay to go into the Tank Yard. It's $5 for anyone 13 & over, $1 for 7-12 year olds and free for kids under 6. I didn't expect it to be as interesting and informative as it was! I had kids of all ages with me and there was something for everyone. Before leaving we walked through the Tank Yard. It had Armored Vehicles from World War II through Vietnam. It was very interesting & we took lots of silly pics. It was the perfect thing to do before getting back in the car for the rest of our drive :) Museum Hours * Hours are 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, 7 days a week * Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving read more

General Patton Memorial Museum - Museums Near Me - Indio, California

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This museum consists of two sections, one inside and the other outside. Inside,is a collection of Patton memorabilia (as expected). In addition, there are also World War II weapons such as a BAR (Browning Automatic Rifle), a German Sturmgewehr, and an anti tank cannon. Moreover, helmets, flags, and uniforms of various nationalities and wars are displayed. A gift store is also inside. The people who operate this museum are very friendly and are working for a good cause. I bought a t-shirt to help them out, and I encourage you to do the same. Outside are a number of Patton tanks, none of which, I believe, are in running order. The Patton tank was produced after George Patton died and saw action in Korea and Vietnam. There is also an M4 Sherman, which did see action in WWII. I also saw a tank recovery vehicle, trucks, and a tractor. A small chapel is also outside. It seemed out of place, but Patton was a spiritual man, so maybe it is no odd after all. Bring a hat, as It can get quite warm in the outside section. Next to the museum is a Chevron gas station and a Foster's Freeze, so you can fill your car and tummy after your visit. The other reviewers of this museum do not rate this place highly, but I see they are not World War II affictionados. If you have interest in this period of history, you should visit this place next time you are in the area. read more

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Oh my. This place is pretty funny. I hopped over to the grand old town?settlement? dot on the map? of Chiriaco Summit (I know it says Indio here, but if you see Chiriaco, you'd know why) after a great visit to Joshua Tree. Basically Chiriaco Summit is a gas station, restaurant, and this musem. And that's it. There's nothing else around for miles (except the interstate). This place is super funny and about what you expect it to be: A middle of nowhere museum. Patton does have a minor history with the area, so it's kind of understandable. But why should you go here? Ummm. Hmmm. That's a good question. Why did you have to ask me that question? read more

General Patton Memorial Museum - Museums Near Me - Indio, California

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So WOW there is a War Museum at this reststop. I could not believe my eye. So first I notice what looks to be a Memorial. Then as I got closer I noticed it was a Museum. This is a great place to stop if you have kids. Ok if you like War memorabilia you will enjoy this place also. There are tanks There is a lot of history for everyone to learn. Even if it's closed. You can see the tanks and the statue. I'm still amazed how this is here and no sign for it. This place is not expensive. If I recall right it was like 5 -6 dollars. The place is nice. Ok its old. But artifacts are neat. And the Statue of General Patton is worth the stop. This is a must stop for all. A hidden gem. Besides you can get gas at Chevron and get a soft serve from Foster Freeze. So its a win win win for everyone. read more

We had a fantastic time at this place today. loved the museum and the library was filled with a ton of great stuff to read. Wanted to ride in the tanks, but found out its 200/per person. About 30 minutes from la quinta. 15 bucks for tickets to the museum. Great place to check out. read more

General Patton Memorial Museum - Museums Near Me - Indio, California

I don't talk about this place enough, sadly, because I often forget it's here. We fly past it on the zillion trips to and fro Phoenix and San B., but it's such a cool place to stretch your legs. I've been here several times and it's certainly showing its age, however, history buffs and organizations that are passionate about keeping history alive and accessible to future generations need to be commended for their continued tanacity, and The Patton is a perfect place for this! My last visit was early on a Tuesday morn, before the museum opened, and I was pleasantly surprised by some of the new memorials that had arisen...one, the Vietnam wall. I ventured around somemore Andrea learned that the place was named after the first Secretary of the Army, Lt. Col. Young, and that Patton loved this place, in fact, it was through his efforts and utilizing the harsh conditions of our desert that trained our boys to be successful in the campaigns we won in Africa during WWII. A great place for history buffs and kids too will love seeing these old dinosaur tanks. Hats off to my brothers of the ECV Billy Holcomb Chapter. Satisfactory! read more

General Patton Memorial Museum - Satisfactory! - Museums Near Me - Indio, California

Very informative. Worth the stop. Lots of great exhibits. Thank you to our greatest generation.

Very interesting museum. A best kept secret along I-10. You should take the time to stop and visit this museum.

Great roadside stop! We almost didn't catch it as the sign for it on the highway is small. It's next to a gas station and a cafe. Very cool place to see history and learn a little more. My sons loved it, especially seeing the tanks up close and personal outside. When you are passing through, make it a point to stop by here to gas up next store then spend 30-45 mins to go through this museum. One of the better roadside attractions you'll see traveling. Just the fact you get to see a 1940's Sherman Tank makes it worth it! read more

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Awesome place in the middle of the desert. Have donated here and also had some bricks put up on the wall. Cool little spot to stop if you need a break there's gas a diner and the museum. read more

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Middle of the damn desert but worth it if you are nearby. Several different models of tanks and military equipment to take photos with and read about General Patton. If you need a break from the 10 freeway stop in and check out the war relics. read more

General Patton Memorial Museum - Museums Near Me - Indio, California

Very interesting. Lots of memorabilia from all wars, including WWII. If you're driving to LA or Phoenix, Chiriaco Summit is a good place to get gas, stop for food, and stretch your legs (in the museum). Not quite sure why there are two entries for the General Patton Memorial Museum in Indio. Same location. read more