Arts & Culture

Lompoc’s rich history is a blend of Native America, Spanish, and Mexican influences, all of which the community works diligently to preserve and showcase for residents and visitors. For those who love art, music, architecture and history, the small city serves as a creative mecca, highlighting the melting pot of cultures in its vibrant attractions, galleries, and performances. For travelers visiting California’s central coast, Lompoc’s relaxed pace and focus on heritage makes for an exceptional and authentic experience.  

Immerse Yourself in Lompoc

Love architecture and history? La Purisima Mission State Historic Park welcomes more than 200,000 yearly visitors and is home to the most fully restored and furnished of the state’s 21 missions. Supported by the nonprofit Prelado, La Purisima Mission is Lompoc’s crown jewel. Revel in the awe-inspiring artisanal craftsmanship restoration of period furniture, roof and floor tiles, sculptural elements and interior paintings. Take a free guided tour through the historic buildings with costumed docents, enjoy hands-on activities from life in the 1820s, or pick up a self-guided tour map at the visitor center and gift shop to explore on your own.

Looking for live music? Originally formed in 1997 to entertain at Vandenberg Air Force Base’s Space Week, the Lompoc Pops Orchestra now boasts a full symphonic ensemble. Through music education, outreach programs and regional performances of classical and pops concerts, this beloved group is now the pride and joy of local and visiting music aficionados.

Whether you’re on the hunt for that unique and affordable art to add to your collection or just seeking some handcrafted jewelry or ceramics to remind you of your trip to Lompoc, the Cypress Gallery should be at the top of your itinerary. In addition to seasonal exhibits and gallery events, this mainstay of the Lompoc Valley Art Association features the work of more than 60 local artists. Browse the rotating offers of watercolor, oils, acrylics, photography, pastels, mixed media and more for the perfect piece for yourself or someone you love.

With depictions of Lompoc’s ethnic diversity, history, flower industry and scenery, the Murals of Lompoc draw visitors from far and wide. You’ll find dozens of murals in Old Tow’s walkable Art Alley, as well as throughout the city on buildings, street corners and side streets. Download a mural map or pick up a hard copy at the Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau to embark on a self-guided tour.

For those eager to explore the arts and culture of a central California coast city with a small-town vibe, Lompoc fits the bill. Set your own pace as you meander the public art. Step back in time within centuries’ old buildings maintained by those who value history, architecture and culture. Tap your toes to orchestral performances originally designed to entertain even the top brass of our military. And support local artists by shopping the gallery halls for a masterpiece to call your own. If your idea of a vacation is learning and exploring at a relaxing pace, Lompoc won’t disappoint.

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  • Museums and Galleries
  • Old Town Lompoc
A sun-dappled view of some small marine-life habitats at Lompoc Aquarium

Cabrillo High School Aquarium

During the school year, the Cabrillo High School Aquarium is open to the public about once every month! Admission is ...
Potted succulents and decorative wooden signs on display at The Garden Shoppe

The Garden Shoppe

The Garden Shoppe in Old Town Lompoc specializes in lots of unique items for your garden as well as locally ...
A fall tableau with gourds and hay bales; sign reads: 'Flower Valley Country Store Open!'

Flower Valley Country Store

The Flower Valley Country Store in Old Town Lompoc is a farm-to-table boutique specializing in seasonal organic produce, cut flowers, ...
The entrance to Certain Sparks Music store, with instruments displayed in the window

Certain Sparks Music

Certain Sparks Music is a locally owned and operated music store, music school and recording studio located in an historic ...
A view of the Fabing-McKay-Spanne House, a windmill with a tail made out of an old sign is prominent

Fabing-McKay-Spanne House

Built in 1875, the Fabing-McKay-Spanne House is named for the three families who had lived in it. Operated by the ...
An old Californian mission-style church (photo: Helena Vasquez)

Heritage Walk

Stroll through Old Town Lompoc, CA on a one-mile, self-guided tour, featuring 18 stops along the way, including the Andrew ...
Black-and-white photo of the Artesia Schoolhouse, built in 1876

Artesia School Museum

Open once a month for tours, this fully restored and furnished one-room schoolhouse (built in 1876) is a Lompoc treasure. ...
Exterior photo of the brightly blue-and-yellow painted Cypress Gallery

Cypress Gallery

Art lovers will find a variety of fine art at Cypress Gallery, showcasing works of more than 60 well-known local ...
The façade of the Lompoc Museum is neo-classical American

Lompoc Museum

Immerse yourself in local history at the Lompoc Museum, featuring exhibits of Chumash Indians, a re-creation of old Lompoc storefronts, ...

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