5 Things To Do In Claremont, California

Located in sunny Southern California, Claremont is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. In this article, we explore five must-visit locations that represent Claremont’s diverse offerings.

1. Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology

The Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology isn’t just any regular museum. It’s the only nationally accredited museum of its kind located on a high school campus in the United States. The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 140,000 specimens, highlighting the vastness and beauty of ancient life. Visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating world of fossils, where they can discover dinosaur skeletons, prehistoric sea creatures, and fossil footprints. Each of the museum’s two circular halls presents a different period of earth’s history, offering a unique journey through time that both children and adults will find captivating.

2. Folk Music Center

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of music at the Folk Music Center. Initially established in 1958, the center is more than just a shop offering a wide variety of stringed instruments. It’s an institution that preserves and promotes folk music and its related arts. Discover a world of unique, rare, and vintage instruments—from guitars, banjos, mandolins, to world music instruments such as sitars and balalaikas. The center also offers lessons and hosts live concerts, making it a hub of musical culture where anyone can learn, create, and appreciate the art of folk music.

3. Claremont Packing House

The Claremont Packing House is a testament to Claremont’s rich agricultural past. As one of the few remaining packing houses from the citrus industry’s golden era, it’s been beautifully preserved and has now been repurposed into a bustling center of activity. Here, visitors can explore a collection of unique boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and entertainment venues—all under one roof. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted goods, fine art, or a great dining experience, the Packing House offers an eclectic mix of experiences that are quintessentially Claremont.

4. Claremont Craft Ales

If you’re a fan of craft beers, then a visit to Claremont Craft Ales is a must. Since opening its doors in 2012, this family-run microbrewery has quickly become a beloved Claremont institution. With a rotating selection of unique and flavorful beers, Claremont Craft Ales focuses on creating high-quality, hand-crafted beers using the freshest ingredients. Visitors can tour the brewery, learn about the brewing process from passionate and knowledgeable staff, and enjoy tasting a wide array of beers in their friendly tasting room or outdoor patio.

5. Claremont Farmers & Artisans Market

Established in 1996, the Claremont Farmers & Artisans Market is the perfect place to experience the best of Claremont’s local produce and art scene. Every Sunday, farmers, bakers, artists, and craftsmen gather to sell their fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique creations. Stroll through the market to find a wide array of fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade bread, delectable pastries, unique arts and crafts, and so much more. The market is not only a place to shop but it also offers the opportunity to connect with the local community, talk to vendors about their products, and learn more about the town’s rich culture and history.

In conclusion, Claremont is a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and a love for the outdoors. Whether it’s unearthing the mysteries of ancient fossils at the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology, getting lost in the world of music at the Folk Music Center, appreciating the historical significance of the Claremont Packing House, tasting finely crafted beers at Claremont Craft Ales, or meeting local farmers and artists at the Claremont Farmers & Artisans Market, there’s something for everyone in Claremont, California.