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Dioramas

Whimsical and intricately crafted dioramas offer a bird’s-eye view of Calistoga’s rich past—view Sam Brannan’s 1860s Hot Springs Resort, watch a model train wind past early 1900s Chinatown, and trace the historic electric railroad that once linked Calistoga to the San Francisco Bay Area.

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Period Rooms

Step back in time and explore iconic Calistoga landmarks and history. Tour the restored Sam Brannan Cottage, glimpse rural life in the Fossville Barn & Blacksmith Shop, and view a beautifully restored Calistoga stagecoach that once carried travelers through the region. Each room offers a unique and vivid window into Calistoga’s colorful past, waiting for you to explore.

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The Wappo People

Discover the rich heritage of the region’s indigenous people through artifacts and images that reveal their early use of Calistoga’s natural geothermal hot springs for healing.

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The Donner Party

Though the Donner Party's ill-fated expedition didn't directly traverse Calistoga, the Napa Valley region became the settled home of many survivors who were rescued as children or teenagers. A tangible connection to this event’s dramatic history is displayed at the Sharpsteen Museum, where visitors can view an authentic cooking pot brought over by the Donner Party—an artifact featured in the Travel Channel's “Mysteries at the Museum”.

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Calistoga’s Places of Worship: from The White Church to the Brannan Center

Coming Soon | Sep 2025 – Jan 2026

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Meet Calistoga’s Founder: Sam Brannan

The museum stands as a testament to the life and legacy of Sam Brannan, California’s first millionaire and the founder of Calistoga.

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Artistry of Ben Sharpsteen

Experience the creative legacy of Ben Sharpsteen through immersive artwork, Disney animation artifacts, and a rare glimpse of his Oscar-winning career.