Brea Museum and Historical Society
Discover Brea's unique history through fascinating exhibits, artifacts, and knowledgeable guides. Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Open hours for exploration
Brea Museum and Historical Society
Best Time
Open hours for exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Brea's unique history through fascinating exhibits, artifacts, and knowledgeable guides. Free admission!
"What a gem! We were kindly greeted by a gentleman Who took us on the tour. He was knowledgeable about the history of Brea."
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free, making it an accessible way to learn about local history.
🚗 Parking Availability
Free parking is available directly behind the red tile roof building.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Brea History Exhibits
Explore fascinating artifacts, photographs, and manuscripts detailing Brea's unique story and growth.
Docent-Led Tours
Gain deeper insights into Brea's past with knowledgeable docents sharing stories behind the exhibits.
Annual Events
Experience community events like Brea History Days, country fairs, and art exhibitions throughout the year.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Hours
Become a Member
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free, making it an accessible way to learn about local history. +1
🚗 Parking Availability
Free parking is available directly behind the red tile roof building.
🤝 Docent-Led Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth stories and context about Brea's history.
💰 Membership Perks
Join the club for $24/year and get discounts at local eateries! +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free, making it an accessible way to learn about local history. +1
🚗 Parking Availability
Free parking is available directly behind the red tile roof building.
🤝 Docent-Led Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth stories and context about Brea's history.
💰 Membership Perks
Join the club for $24/year and get discounts at local eateries! +1
📚 Research Archive
Access archives and a reference library for in-depth historical research.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Brea Museum and Historical Society for its free admission and the wealth of local history it preserves. Many highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who enhance the experience with engaging stories. While some wish for more extensive exhibits, the museum is celebrated as a valuable community gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into Brea's past.
"Last week’s Brea History Days was a big success with the help of @breaolindahighschool students in the Drama department under Mrs. O.
It’s been a tradition in Brea for over 20 years where 3rd graders from all of the elementary schools in Brea visited various locations in Brea, such as the Brea Museum.
@cabogrillandcantina provided lunch for the Brea Olinda High school drama students, Brea Museum staff and volunteers."
Michele Leocadio
"What a gem! We were kindly greeted by a gentleman Who took us on the tour. He was knowledgeable about the history of Brea and Olinda. We learned so much And can definitely appreciate prayer more than ever, the city is so proud and preserves their resources. Put highly recommend a visit."
Jeany K
"It’s hard to believe this little city is 100+ years old. This museum is an ode to the great history of Brea. Admission is free. Free parking is found just behind the red tile roof building.
Operated by the Brea Historical Society. Brea was founded in 1917. The exhibits within narrate the unique story of Brea and the vital connections that served to nurture and spawn growth of neighboring cities.
This location has a archive, a reference library, and a location specific collection of artifacts, photographs, and manuscripts. Research requests must be approved---request online or refer to website."
India M. Clamp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 495 S. Brea Blvd in Brea, CA. Free parking is available behind the red tile roof building.
Information on specific public transport routes is not widely available, but the museum is centrally located within Brea. It's best to check local transit schedules for Orange County.
The Brea Museum and Historical Society is open on Thursdays and Saturdays from 12 PM to 4 PM. +1
No, admission to the Brea Museum and Historical Society is free for all visitors. +1
It's advisable to check the museum's official website or social media for holiday hours, as they may vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required as admission is free. You can visit during their operating hours on Thursdays and Saturdays. +1
Membership in the Brea Museum Club costs $24 per year and offers benefits like discounts at local businesses. +1
While general admission is free, some special events like art exhibitions or fairs might have separate ticketing or donation requests, though many are community-focused.
The museum offers docent-led tours, and it's recommended to contact them directly to arrange group visits or inquire about availability.
As admission is free and the museum is relatively small, re-entry policies are generally flexible during operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to see a collection of artifacts, photographs, and manuscripts that narrate the unique story of Brea and its growth.
Yes, it's a great place for families to learn about local history. Many school groups visit, indicating its educational value for younger audiences.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with staff upon arrival, but generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is often permitted.
Information about a dedicated gift shop is not prominent, but membership benefits and local partnerships suggest a focus on community support. +1
Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors at historical society museums.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a restaurant, but it partners with local eateries like Egg Bred and Rita's Italian Ice. +1
Yes, Brea Museum members receive a 10% discount at participating local restaurants like Egg Bred and Rita's. +1
Brea offers a variety of dining options. Nearby partners include Egg Bred and Rita's Italian Ice, and other local restaurants are within walking distance.
There is no cafe on-site at the museum. Visitors can explore nearby dining establishments for refreshments.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside museum exhibits to preserve the artifacts.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture historical photos of Brea, unique artifacts, and the museum's architecture. Special events also offer great photo moments.
Professional photoshoots may require special permission. It's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about their policy.
While personal photography is usually allowed, flash photography or tripods might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits.
During operating hours (Thursdays and Saturdays, 12-4 PM), natural light will be available. Consider visiting when there are fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The museum itself houses a significant collection of historical photographs of Brea, which are excellent for photography inspiration.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider becoming a member for added perks, like discounts at local eateries, which can be a great way to refuel after your visit. The museum's accessible location and free parking make it a convenient choice for a family day out in Brea.
📚 History Enthusiasts & Researchers
Researchers can submit requests for specific information, and the museum's collection of artifacts, photographs, and manuscripts is meticulously curated to preserve the city's heritage.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even beyond the free entry, the museum's membership program offers tangible savings. For a small annual fee, you can enjoy discounts at local restaurants, making your overall trip more economical.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Brea's Rich History
Visitors can delve into the city's heritage through displays that highlight key moments and figures in Brea's history. The museum also features a reference library and archive, providing resources for those interested in conducting in-depth historical research.
Beyond the permanent collections, the museum frequently hosts special events and exhibitions. These can range from art shows by local artists to celebrations of significant historical anniversaries, such as the 100th anniversary of "The Big Game" between Walter Johnson and Babe Ruth.
These events often bring the community together, offering dynamic ways to engage with Brea's history and culture. Community Engagement and Membership
Becoming a member of the Brea Museum Club is a popular way to support the institution and gain exclusive benefits. For an annual fee of $24, members enjoy perks like discounts at local businesses, including popular spots like Rita's Italian Ice and Egg Bred.
Volunteerism is also a cornerstone of the museum's operations. Events like "Love Brea" see community members dedicating their time to help maintain and improve the museum, demonstrating a strong collective commitment to preserving local history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit