Devoted to art, culture, and island history, this gem of a museum is a great way to orient yourself when you first get to Avalon. Located in the Ada Blanche Wrigley Schreiner Building, the museum includes a permanent installation, "The History of Catalina Island," that chronicles the island's discovery 8,000 years ago and traces its emergence as a beloved vacation destination. Visitors will learn about Catalina's famous residents, like Norma Jean (aka Marilyn Monroe) as well as the island's role during World War II. You’ll also discover fun facts about the legacy of chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr., who bought most of the rights to the island in 1919.
The Catalina Island Museum also features rotating exhibitions; music and dance performances; lectures by guest speakers; and the finest in silent, documentary, and international film. After your museum visit, peruse the offerings in The Museum Store, which include Catalina tile and Chicago Cubs merchandise. Then walk, bike, or ride your golf cart to the Wrigley Memorial in the island’s botanic garden, near the golf course on the east end of town.