LAGUNA BEACH. Just steps from the Pacific Ocean, this institution preserves local artistic traditions with an impressive repertoire of shows. Past exhibits have focused on coastal photography from the 1930s and '40s, a "Surf Culture" retrospective, and a collection of impressionistic art from Laguna Beach-area artists. After browsing the exhibits, stop by the Museum Store and Art Rental and Sales Gallery ­ you may just find a print or two that would look perfect hanging behind the desk in your office.

ANAHEIM. Located in a former Carnegie library building (1908) and boasting a name taken from the pan-European language of Esperanto, this museum seeks to bring relevant exhibits to Southern California rather than maintaining a permanent collection of its own. Three shows are booked annually for three months each, and they tap into regional interests, as does a longstanding display of local history. Past or planned exhibits focus on Roman art, Latino art, African culture, Disney, and frogs. Exhibit prices may vary.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO. One of California's oldest Spanish missions, San Juan Capistrano dates from 1776 and still features a variety of adobe foundations and a few working buildings. Although the once-majestic Great Stone Church is no longer intact, the intimate chapel with its baroque altar is still in use. The mission's legendary swallows, said to arrive every year on St. Joseph's Day, add to the place's charm. The sites' museum recollects the history of the mission, and a variety of art and cultural activities are hosted each season.

SANTA ANA. Smack dab in the middle of Santa Ana, the Old Courthouse dates from 1901 and still manages to provide the setting for an occasional wedding or two. Visitors during the workweek can tour the classic building, which boasts its original courtroom, judge's chambers, jury room, and press chambers. A museum on local history proves enlightening to folks interested in the region.

YORBA LINDA. Richard Milhouse Nixon, the nation's 37th president, was born in sleepy Yorba Linda on January 9, 1913. In 1990, he and Presidents Bush, Reagan and Ford attended the opening ceremony of the nine-acre Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace site, which includes a museum, gallery space, the First Lady Garden, and the family home. Today, history buffs can stop by the center and learn about the late president's early life and public career. The birthplace, a quaint farmhouse that Nixon's father built, has been lovingly restored to its original state, complete with furniture, family photos, and the piano he learned to play as a lad.