International Banana Museum by Salton Sea
Keep Calm and Eat a Banana!
Before you read further the post, do me a favor grab a banana and eat it! Thank you! Last spring for my birthday I just wanted a little party and a road trip to an apocalyptic place - Salton Sea. Around the Salton Sea there are many weird things to see and do and one of those places is the International Banana Museum. Who knows me a little or worked with me, are aware of my banana a day habit. Bananas are good for you, they are tasty, yellow and just so filling. I am so glad there is a banana museum nearby San Diego. Oh and my gaming name, if it's not taken is always a Banana Queen. So I felt as a true Banana Queen I must to visit the Banana Museum, the most bananaanananananaana place of all!
About International Banana Museum at the Salton Sea
The International Banana Museum is a unique and quirky destination located in Mecca, California, near the Salton Sea. This one-of-a-kind museum is dedicated entirely to bananas, showcasing an impressive collection of over 20,000 banana-related items. From banana-shaped furniture to banana-themed artwork, the museum offers visitors an immersive experience in all things banana.
The museum operates from Friday to Monday, 11 AM to 7:30 PM, though it's recommended to call or email ahead as it's run by a dedicated individual who manages it in their spare time. There's a small entrance fee of $1-2, which is waived if you make a purchase. One of the highlights of visiting the museum is trying their famous banana shake, which has received rave reviews from visitors.
Key Features of the Museum:
- Over 20,000 banana related items in the collection
- Affordable entrance fee (only $1-2 unless you buy something)
- Open Friday to Monday from 11 AM to 7:30 PM
- Must-try banana shake - highly recommended by visitors
- Located in Mecca, California, near the Salton Sea
- Easy to spot with a big sign visible from the road
The museum itself isn't large - it's essentially one big room that was likely a bar at some point. Everywhere you look, you'll find B-A-N-A-N-A-S! The collection ranges from little statues to food items containing bananas. There's even a bar where you can order banana drinks or meals. During my visit in March, which is already quite hot in the desert, me and Mr. J's family all got banana shakes, and it was honestly one of the best banana shakes I've ever had.
Mr. J's mom was kind enough to buy me an International Banana Museum shirt for my birthday, which I wore to my party, and I couldn't have been happier. The whole experience was perfectly aligned with my banana obsession and gaming persona as the "Banana Queen."
The International Banana Museum is more than just a collection of banana items - it's a testament to one person's passion and dedication to creating something unique and joyful. Whether you're a banana enthusiast like myself or simply looking for an unusual roadside attraction, this museum offers a delightful escape from the ordinary.
For those planning a visit, it's worth noting that the Salton Sea area itself is quite fascinating, with its apocalyptic landscape and other quirky attractions. The banana museum fits perfectly into this offbeat destination, offering a sweet contrast to the stark desert surroundings.
This post is dedicated to everyone who is dreaming about summer and warmth. I hope it brings a little sunshine and happiness to your day, just like bananas bring joy to mine. Whether you're planning a trip to the Salton Sea or simply enjoying the comfort of your home, remember to keep calm and eat a banana!
The International Banana Museum represents more than just a quirky tourist stop - it's a celebration of the simple joys in life. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, places like this remind us to embrace the silly, the unusual, and the things that make us smile. For me, it was the perfect birthday adventure that combined my love for bananas, road trips, and discovering hidden gems.
As I continue my journey through life, documenting hiking adventures and backpacking experiences, the Banana Museum will always hold a special place in my heart. It's a reminder that sometimes the most memorable experiences come from the most unexpected places. So next time you're in Southern California, take a detour to Mecca and experience the banana magic for yourself!