Yuma is so fortunate to have this brand new attraction for children! What a gem. And right in the…read moreheart of historic downtown. We have purchased a membership for the year for our family and have already visited 8 or 9 times! There is a tot spot for kids 3 and under, a kitchen play area, a music space, large foam building blocks, an area to play doctor, a table for magnet tiles, an art room with plenty of crafts plus legos and chalk boards, a science room with bugs, space/astronauts/etc... tons to do! I'm so glad this place has opened up. It's clean and the staff is so friendly. Definitely check it out!

I would definitely recommend this museum to parents, teachers, or anyone looking for a fun and…read moreeducational outing for kids. We'll absolutely be coming back!

I have seen this place from the I-8 freeway over the years as I drove across into Arizona. While…read moreworking in the area I made the trek over and visited! They have a big gift shop with random knick-knacks. You pay $10 to explore the grounds which includes a tiny chapel on elevated mound of earth, a replica of a chapel in Brittany, France. They also have a beautiful display of granite blocks carved out like an encyclopedia of just about all kinds of things! Such an interesting place I definitely recommend you check out!

It was really a lot more than I thought it would be. Beautiful engraved granite, a maze, and the…read moreCenter of the Word Certificate. It was fun and had a lot of unique things to see. I highly recommend it for the history alone.

This was our first time here while we were visiting Palm Springs and it was amazing! We did come…read morefor their special event for the New Year's noon party. It was an awesome event and we had so much fun! My son is special needs and I asked about a sensory bag and it was so cool what they provided for the sensory, which included headphones which we used for the balloon drop. The exhibits were so awesome and very engaging for my six-year-old son. His favorite exhibit was where you put scarfs into the little wind tunnel and it would come up the top. But there's so many things for all different ages, including even like 6 to 7 month old. It's such an awesome place and I wish we had something like this where we live! The staff was so friendly and so good with communicating and answering all the questions. We had such a great time for the special event of the balloon drop where they had music and crafts and they just made it feel so festive and fun. It was definitely a highlight of our day! We totally will come back next time we visit Palm Springs!

It was our First time back since they remodeled the place.... My 10 yr granddaughter and I decided…read moreit would a fun day for us to take the great grandson ....He is a very active 2yr old...... each room had things to capture his attention... he loved the little slide.... the ball with the air machine...lots of giggles and laughter... They could use a better WiFi system... we had a hard time getting signed in to complete the waivers.... We arrived early so plenty of parking...

Surprisingly complete ode to the history of Imperial Valley, with both things to see inside and…read moreout. The museum is very large with two upstairs sections. Downstairs includes a history of the valley plus slices of the changing technology that helped make the west what it was. Nature and animal exhibits too, with stuffed animals. Upstairs one large section is devoted to the different ethnic groups who have settled in the valley and contributed to it, and another section includes antiques that made life easier through home improvement devices over the years. Works of well known Imperial Valley residents like author Harold Bell Wright are exhibited. Outside some farm devices and a parked few pieces of a train including its caboose. In all a very enjoyable experience with something for everyone. $10. per adult, $5. for students.

Good day for a couple laps around the park! Nice view with…read morewater area with ducks Friendly family park!

The ghost town is very interesting and fun to walk through. We spent about an hour and half. Great…read morehistory of mining and life during the gold rush era to after WWII. For $75 per person you also get the guided Castle Dome Mine tour. Took about 2 hours and was very informative about mining life underground. Miners extracted gold, silver, copper and lead for many years. This and other minerals show up fantastic under black light. Glad we drove 10 miles down the bumpy road off of highway 95. Mine tour are at 11:00, 1:00 and 3:00. Would recommend getting there after 10:00 and take the 11:00 tour. Closes at 5:00 so give yourself a good 4+ hours to have fun.

** A Hidden Gem in the Desert: Castle Dome Mining Museum & Ghost Town**…read more We visited the **Castle Dome Mining Museum and Ghost Town** today during our tour of the Yuma area, and we were absolutely **blown away** by this **unexpected treasure** in the middle of the desert! From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the **owner and founder, Allen Armstrong**--a true **Renaissance man** with a passion for history, sustainability, and preservation. As we paid our entrance fee, we had the pleasure of chatting with him about his **off-grid, energy-efficient lifestyle**. His **solar power farm** generates so much electricity that he effortlessly powers his home, museum, and even air conditioning--**all while living sustainably** in this remote location. His ingenuity alone was worth the visit! The **Ghost Town walking tour** was **nothing short of spectacular**. Before starting, we downloaded the **audio tour**, which provided fascinating background stories at various stops. The town features **over 20 buildings**--some original, some carefully reconstructed--each **meticulously filled with authentic period items**. The attention to detail was **breathtaking**: - The **blacksmith shop** was stocked with real tools and equipment. - The **dress shop** displayed elegant gowns, hats, and sewing supplies. - The **barbershop**, saloons, jail, and church all felt **frozen in time**. Even the **"junk piles"** behind buildings were **historically accurate**, filled with old bottles, cans, and mining debris--proof that every inch of this place was crafted with **love and precision**. We missed the **Castle Dome Marauders** (a lively reenactment group), but we'll **definitely plan our next visit around their schedule**. We also didn't take the **mine tour** this time, but hearing about the **fluorescent mineral walls** and gemstone-lined tunnels has us **eager to return**. A few notes for future visitors: - The road is **10 miles off the main highway** and **rough**, but **trust us--it's worth it!** - If you're lucky, you'll meet **Allen himself**--his passion is contagious. If not, the guides are **knowledgeable and engaging**. - Don't miss the **silver extraction exhibit**--a fascinating look at historic mining techniques! **Final Verdict:** **5/5 Stars!** This is a **must-see** attraction near Yuma--**authentic, immersive, and unforgettable**. Whether you love history, mining, or just unique adventures, **Castle Dome delivers**. We'll be back soon! **Highly, highly recommend!**

What a cool experience walking through this air museum and seeing planes from different eras,…read moreincluding a stealth bomber, with the kids. It's both fun and educational, and there is a lot to take in. My one tip is to give yourself plenty of time to explore. We showed up about an hour before closing and easily could have spent a few more hours walking around, taking photos, and learning the history. We had a great time and it definitely gives us a reason to come back.

I really don't know much about planes, but I truly enjoyed my time at the Palm Springs Air Museum…read more We had dropped by for an event, and were lucky enough to look around beforehand. I believe it's $25 a person, but it's so worth it. To start, everyone working here is extremely kind and passionate about what they do. We were greeted with big smiles and directions telling us where we'd want to start off. The museum itself is amazing. There is so much history here and it's amazing to think about what these aircraft's were apart of prior to their retirement. I think you could easily spend a few hours here! We will definitely be back, if you're in the area be sure to check this place out!

The Maritime Museum of San Diego is honestly one of the most impressive history museums I've…read morevisited because the artifacts are the museum. You aren't just looking at history -- you're surrounded by ships that actually survived it. The Star of India, launched in 1863, survived mutiny, violent storms, collisions at sea, and decades carrying immigrants across dangerous oceans. Some sailors believed the ship was cursed after captains died during early voyages, yet somehow she survived long enough to become the oldest active sailing ship in the world. HMS Surprise shows the brutal reality of naval warfare during the Age of Sail. Ships like this once carried enough cannon firepower to destroy enemy vessels while sailors lived packed below deck surrounded by gunpowder, disease, and fear of battle. The Berkeley steam ferry even helped evacuate survivors during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake while much of the city burned. One of the most fascinating exhibits is the Soviet B-39 submarine from the Cold War. The inside is unbelievably cramped and gives you a real sense of what life was like beneath the ocean during one of the most dangerous periods in modern history. The USS Dolphin may have been my favorite. This experimental deep-diving U.S. Navy submarine helped test advanced underwater technology and launched the deepest-fired torpedo in naval history. The museum also includes the San Salvador, recreating the ship that explored California's coastline in 1542 -- long before America existed as a country. What makes this place incredible is the timeline it creates: 1500s exploration... 1800s global sailing... steam-powered industry... world wars... Cold War submarines... All sitting together in one harbor. This place doesn't just teach maritime history -- it shows how ships shaped exploration, immigration, trade, warfare, and entire empires.

What an absolute gem. The Maritime Museum is a collection of floating ships available to tour…read more We enjoyed the add-on ($10) 45 minute, docent-led, bay tour on the Pilot. We learned so much. The Museum is well-organized with plenty of memorabilia and artifacts to enjoy. There are several boats to explore. There's also plenty of seating along the boats, to just enjoy the scenery. The Maritime Museum is a must!

A marvelous museum that all prominent professionals and dignitaries have or will visit. But it…read moreisn't just open to those few, it is open to all of humanity who wants to have an enriched experience--an absolute must to visit! It is a magnificent display of history and art that transcends academia by utilizing all of the human senses. Upon arrival, one is immediately intrigued by Michelangelo's bronze arm that points along a line that travels though a pyramid and into history etched on granite before arriving at a church on a hill that overlooks the area. As one enters the museum, a docent greets the visitor and introduces the museum by a short film. The pyramid is opened where you have an opportunity to enter and be photographed standing at the "Center of the World," to capture your own history. From within the pyramid, you can feel the cool granite stone and see the sunlight glistening off the beautiful etched granite in the history courtyard--what beauty the Pyramids of Giza must have displayed during its day! You take a fresh breathe of the outdoor air as you approach the magnificent etched granite that displays the history of humanity. Being inspired by the great artists, philosophers, scientists, leaders, and many others--you continue to walk around under the blue blanket sky studying those topics of interest. At the end, you can ascend up a series of stairs to the Church. As you approach the heavens, you can sit and look out towards the mountains, desert, and blue skies. You pause to process what you just experienced while also subconsciously reflecting upon your own story of life. This is not the end. Departing from this experience, you stop to have a cold Felicity beverage at their restaurant where you further reflect. Finally, you slowly leave this spectacular museum, while subconsciously asking yourself, "what more can I do"--leaving this place with a new sense of belonging and a desire to accomplish more in life!

This museum is like a jewel in the desert and the owners are wonderful! Jacques-André and Felicia…read moreIstel. It's fun to stop by because there's always something new to see. It's worth stopping at, especially in the cooler months when the cafe and gift shop are open.

Johnny Cloud is an amazing, local treasure!…read more Not only is his collection remarkable, his grasp of the areas history is second to none.

I lived in California for years and thought that I visited every corner of the state. I drove a…read morelot of miles in that time. Somehow, I missed a little piece of the state just north of Yuma, Arizona. Bard, California, has date farms and there was a ripe crop of lettuce growing yesterday. It was a long field of green. There's not really a town center but, if there is, it's most assuredly the Cloud Museum. It sits across from one of the lettuce fields, too. I'm not a car geek but all I can say is wow. Wow! I'm not the only one, either. I watched some folks exclaim the same word after entering. Johnny Cloud is 82 years old and has been collecting for half his life. The museum looks more like a junk yard from outside the fence where a large sign says: 'Probably the largest collection of Model T's in the world.' I don't know if that's true but if there is a larger collection, someone is keeping it a secret. Pulling up in the dirt parking area in front, I was immediately greeted by a bevy of older dogs that were eager to say hello and ask for pets before they all rolled around playing with each other. The admission price is $10. It's an honor system so place your bill in the metal box. At that point, you'll hear a loud motion sensor buzzer sound. It's a bit jarring at first but there is not a staff here. It's Johnny, his dogs, and some friends who may be there as they all tinker with whatever they may be working on. Indeed, they asked me if I wanted to watch them turn on a jerry-rigged Model T that now served as a large saw. Yes. Yes, I did. (For those who find it odd, I remember seeing old family photos of folks doing the same with their Model Ts back in the day.) The engine puttered to life, smoke bellowed into the air, and a large rusty saw blade began to whirl. One of Johnny's friends looked for a large chunk of wood to test out. Safety be damned. Johnny and his friends are obviously having fun among the hundreds of cars here. Most are rusted to a beautiful patina. Some have original faded paint, while others look almost new and seem ready for a country drive. All are neatly organized in long rows. This is an overwhelming display and I probably said wow a hundred times before leaving. There are also other car brands, toy cars, boat motors, car parts, wheels -- lots of wheels -- old electric pole glass transistors, a few period rooms, tools, and more assorted bric-a-brac. Again, it's all organized well and easy to view and appreciate. Although there is a website, Johnny doesn't maintain it. He doesn't use the internet and seems happily ensconced in an older time aside from the little golf cart that he uses to roam the property in his cowboy hat so he can chat with visitors. I don't know how many more years this will museum will be open even though Johnny doesn't look 82 and acts like a kid around his collection. California has always amazed me with its diversity. There are always surprises and this is one of the most memorable. P.S. The website says the museum is open at 9am. Johnny said he's usually tinkering by 7:30am so try your luck and offer your respects.

Great vibe, lots of spots to have a drink, hang out, and eat! Gets pretty lively at night.read more

This city has undergone some major and much deserved renovation and restoration in the last few…read moreyears. Its border crossing (though busy), is not as busy as the border I grew up experiencing living in San Diego. It has however, (and understandably) gotten much busier with more barriers/delays, etc. over time. It's a good idea to pay attention to the border wait times to plan the best time to return into the states. You will have to go through a checkpoint when entering into and returning from Mexico. Bags are inspected each way so if you have to question an item you're considering bringing in or out, it's likely best to leave it at home. Or you risk confiscation. Surprisingly, I did not too many refugees on my recent visit. This city is relaxed and the people are warm and welcoming. The locals/natives (Mexican and/or Chinese descent) lovingly are referred to as "Cachanillas". This a type of plant, Pluchea sericea native to Mexicali. Blending two beautiful cultures into one that makes La Chinesca so special and unique. This area is historically known for having the largest Chinese community in Mexico. There are hidden underground establishments and tunnels built by the early Chinese immigrants. I am told the underground construction was a way for the Chinese to escape the harsh heat. Which at its hottest, reached a scorching 125 degrees Fahrenheit in 1995. These tunnels have been re-opened and there are affordable tours available taking you as far and as safely as possible through an underground labyrinth where people would live and congregate. They even show you some old opium/gambling areas and more. I would highly recommend coming and respectfully embracing all the city has to offer. About a decade ago, I referred to La Chinesca as somewhat stuck in time. However, they're mixing old with new, embracing change, all while honoring and preserving deeply rooted traditions. This city also offers plenty of dining options as well and plenty sightseeing and shopping in a day.