Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Cultural Destination in Oakland
We are Oakland Museum Of California (OMCA), a cultural institution dedicated to inspiring understanding and empathy through stories of California's art, history, and natural environment. Since 1969, we have served as a gathering place and resource for communities, offering multidisciplinary collections across 110,000 square feet of gallery space and a seven-acre campus. Our mission focuses on building equitable, connected communities through exhibitions, educational programs, and community collaborations. With over two million objects in our collection, we explore California's dynamic heritage while prioritizing inclusivity, anti-racism, and Native accountability. We host rotating exhibitions, public programs, and events that reflect diverse perspectives, including partnerships with Native communities and initiatives like our award-winning White Elephant Sale.Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 1973, we maintain the highest standards of excellence in museum practices. Our recent recognition as a 2024 CAMMY Award winner and 2022 National Medal recipient underscores our commitment to community impact. Located in downtown Oakland, we offer accessible facilities, including gardens, a cafe, and educational spaces designed for all visitors. Through innovative exhibitions like 'Good Fire: Tending Native Lands' and collaborations with local artists, we continue to evolve as a leader in California's cultural landscape. Our financial transparency and community-driven decision-making reflect our dedication to social cohesion and public trust.
Services
Art Exhibitions
History Galleries
Natural Sciences
Educational Programs
Cafe Services
Event Rentals
Membership Programs
Online Collections
Accessibility Services
Gift Shop
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We are a nationally accredited museum with over 50 years of excellence in California cultural preservation.
- Our community-driven exhibitions prioritize inclusivity and Native accountability in storytelling.
- We offer award-winning educational programs for all ages, including school field trips and teacher resources.
- Our 7-acre campus features gardens, a cafe, and accessible spaces for diverse visitor needs.
- We maintain financial transparency and social cohesion through innovative institutional practices.
Associations and certifications
- American Alliance of Museums
Services
Art Exhibitions
Our Gallery of California Art showcases diverse artistic expressions from historical to contemporary works. Visitors explore rotating exhibitions featuring local artists, permanent collections, and special installations. The space fosters dialogue about California's cultural evolution through visual arts.
History Galleries
The Gallery of California History presents immersive exhibits tracing the state's social, political, and cultural development. Through artifacts, multimedia displays, and interactive installations, visitors engage with stories of diverse communities shaping California's past and future.
Natural Sciences
Our Natural Sciences gallery explores California's ecosystems, geology, and biodiversity through habitat dioramas and modern environmental narratives. The space connects natural history with contemporary ecological challenges and community stewardship efforts.
Educational Programs
We offer curriculum-aligned field trips, teacher resources, and youth programs for K-12 students. Programs include guided gallery visits, hands-on activities, and digital learning materials supporting state educational standards.
Event Rentals
Our museum spaces host weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings with unique backdrops of California art and culture. Rental packages include access to galleries, gardens, and event planning support services.
Questions
What are Oakland Museum of California's operating hours?
We're open Wednesday-Sunday from 11am-5pm. The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Does OMCA offer discounted admission?
Yes! We offer reduced rates for seniors, students, and educators. First Sundays feature free general admission.
Are there dining options at the museum?
Town Fare Cafe by Chef Michele McQueen offers Southern-inspired cuisine Wednesday-Sunday from 11am-4pm.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. We have accessibility ramps, elevators, wheelchair rentals, and sensory-friendly accommodations available upon request.
Can I host an event at OMCA?
Our venue spaces accommodate weddings, corporate events, and private parties with museum access and catering options.
Does OMCA have educational programs for schools?
We offer guided field trips, teacher resources, and curriculum materials aligned with California educational standards for K-12 groups.
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