1 / 3The Banning Museum
📍 Wilmington, CA
Historic Victorian house museum in Wilmington offering guided tours of the Banning Residence, Stagecoach Barn, and Improbable Gateway Exhibition. Surrounding park features BBQ facilities, exercise equipment, and a rose garden.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with school-age children who can engage with Victorian history and the story of LA's harbor development. The suggested-donation entry removes financial barriers. The BBQ facilities in the surrounding park allow families to make it a full outing - tour the house then set up for an outdoor meal.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →975 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
Craig Hopkins
7 months ago
“Fabulous museum containing the history of Wilmington and of it's founder. Named after Mr Bannings birthplace Wilmington is a vibrant community created through his efforts the Deep harbor necessary for the large ships. I visited in time for the tour of the house. It's interior is Victorian as if it was occupied by the Bannings.”
Gel Clamor
7 months ago
“Such an interesting historical place. This place is a treasure. The house is all decorated for Christmas and it's like stepping back in time.”
Jackie Rubio
a year ago
“I absolutely love this museum! The tour is thorough and the property is well maintained. The museum is on a park where you can barbeque. There is also exercise equipment along the path! If you can, try to book your tour with Lew. He is awesome!! The entrance for the tour is a suggested $5 donation for adults. The donations for kids I am not sure of. But check it out!! ****update**** I still come here to enjoy the surrounding park grounds. Today we had a picnic on the available tables. There are ask bbq grills you can use.”
💬 What parents mention
Overview
The Banning Museum preserves the 1864 Victorian residence of General Phineas Banning, founder of Wilmington and architect of Los Angeles Harbor. Guided docent tours run Tuesday-Thursday and weekends with multiple daily sessions; no reservations required. The grounds include a Stagecoach Barn, rose garden, and park with BBQ grills and fitness equipment along walking paths.
