Donner Memorial State Museum

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4.6

( 16 reviews )

Museums, Natural History Museums

Open 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM See Hours

12593 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161, United States

+1 5305-827-892

Donner Memorial State Museum is a historical museum located in Truckee, California, commemorating the tragic events surrounding the Donner Party in the mid-1800s. The museum offers visitors a chance to explore the pioneering spirit of those who traveled westward during the California Gold Rush era. With exhibits detailing the hardships faced by the Donner Party and the brave individuals who survived, the museum provides a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history. Through its educational displays and interactive activities, Donner Memorial State Museum serves as a place of remembrance and reflection on the resilience of early settlers in the face of adversity. Experience the stories of courage and perseverance at Donner Memorial State Museum.

Amenities and More

Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Good for kids
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Restroom
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Restaurant

Reviews

4.6/5

16 reviews

5 stars

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1 stars

Andrew sitko

March 22, 2024

The museum was very educational. I learned a lot about what they went through, unbelievable. They have the museum set up very nicely. On the outside, the trails are very wide and flat and easy to walk on for all ages. They have ponds on the trail, too. I highly recommend going.

Michael montano

March 22, 2024

We drove in from incline village on our vacation to learn more about the history and story of the Donner party. The museum was small but very well done and informative, but I recommend going on the guided tour at 11 am or 1 pm. It’s no additional cost and you are taken on a short walk to the cabin sites and learn more of the history from the stories the guide tells you. Our tour took about 1.5 hours. Parking is $10.

German herrera

March 22, 2024

This is a state park with camping spots near Donner Lake. This is also the memorial for the infamous Donner party who got stuck in a massive snowstorm. The memorial itself has some good details on what happened, but the impressive part is the top of the pedestal. This represents the snowfall that year, which was 22 feet. It is insane to think about now with California's record droughts. There is also a walk through exhibit that showcases the unfortunate events of the Donner party but also other facts about Donner Lake and the transcontinental rail road.

Betsy bella

March 22, 2024

This is my second time going there and this time I got to watch the video. I found out why the base of this monument was so flipping tall! I've always thought wow that's massive. The base represents how deep the snowpack was that winter!!!! Amazing and horrifying. I truly cannot imagine how hard it was for them. Anyone who has judgment against this group of people truly have no empathy. Very informative. If you're in the area it is worth the trip. Clean, (virtually spotless), well lit, and beautiful displays. Nice gift shop

Richard campbell

March 22, 2024

Great historical tour. Great place to do a bit of a walk and run the kids down. It does cost $5 for parking pay in the museum the parking meter didn't work when we were there.

John barilla

March 22, 2024

Great little museum! Just pay for parking at the kiosk and you have access to the museum, lake, and trails! Definitely worth the $5!

Karen mcgreal

March 22, 2024

Very interesting! The intro/historical video is old, but gives great info to understand why the Dinner party got stuck in the snowstorm. Museum nicely done.

Ga bo

March 22, 2024

Museum story follows the story of the pioneers moving westward. Focus on these few that decided to take an ill fated shortcut that delayed them into winter. Such incredibly brave people!!