California's Former Army Fort Is Now A Historic Military Museum With Scenic Views

California is full of wonderful destinations, many of which have scenic views. But there's one spot, a former army fort that not only has stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, but it is also home to a historic military museum. Nestled in Angels Gate Park in the coastal town of San Pedro, California, you'll find Fort MacArthur Military Museum, and it's definitely a place worth checking out, even if you're not a military buff.

From 1914 through World War II, Fort MacArthur existed to protect Los Angeles and the surrounding areas from any incoming enemy attacks from the water. It did so initially with heavy naval artillery, like an armament of 14-inch rifles and 12-inch mortars. After the December 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, Fort MacArthur leveled up its weaponry and contributed to the coastal defenses of Los Angeles Harbor, eventually closing as an army base in 1974. A portion of the fort is still in use by the U.S. Air Force. In 1985, the museum was opened, showcasing various memorabilia of the fort, including photos and exhibits from 1914 through the end of World War II.

If you want to visit Fort MacArthur Military Museum, it's open select days, so it's worth checking online or calling before you go. You can also call ahead and request a special tour of the grounds if you prefer a guide, or wander around on your own. Although it's technically free to visit the museum, a donation is suggested. If you only have one day in LA, it's worth including the Fort MacArthur Military Museum.

A relatively small museum, Fort MacArthur Museum is housed in the galleries of Battery Osgood-Farley, a 1916 concrete coastal gun battery, which means it's underground. The interior has passageways full of military-related sights. In one direction, you'll find heavy artillery pieces, while another hallway will take you to uniforms and photographs from the fort's heyday.

While the museum has a lot of history to offer, it's the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline from the sprawling Angels Gate Park that adds to the overall experience. One review on Tripadvisor said, "The views from the top of the battery are great," while another pointed out that there are plenty of beautiful scenic views for picture-taking. In fact, taking in the view is one of the best free things you can do when visiting Los Angeles. 

Also on the park grounds is the Korean Bell of Friendship. Made of copper and tin, as well as gold, nickel, lead, and phosphorous, the gigantic 17-ton bell was given to Los Angeles by the Republic of Korea in 1976, not only as a token of friendship between the U.S. and South Korea, but also to honor the American bicentennial and veterans of the Korean War. If you want to be there to see the bell rung, you need to plan ahead. It only happens a few times a year, including July 4, National Liberation Day of Korea on August 15, New Year's Eve, and a few other significant dates. When you're done, finish your day by taking in a bit of the beautiful Pacific Northwest coastline along U.S. Route 101, heading north from Los Angeles.