Pop History Lives! Valley Relics Museum – Chatsworth CA

Ah, the time machine. A long imagined sci-fi invention that is supposed to allow travelers to go back in time to moments in their- and the world's - history. Wouldn't it be great to have one for real? If I did have one, I certainly wouldn't waste my trips on correcting the mistakes I made in the past (like my 1980's mullet with the blonde streaks in the front.)

No!

I would use it to visit long gone places in my now home California. After all, as an East Coaster, I never got to rock out at The Palomino, buy albums at Licorice Pizza, visit the first theme park: Busch Gardens of Van Nuys California, or attend the 1984 Olympics.

Well, now there is a way to revisit those long gone retro-rific places from California's San Fernando Valley.  

Valley Relics Museum: "No time machine needed."
Housed in a unassuming industrial park near a tile store, Valley Relics in Chatsworth, California is the ultimate labor of love for curator Tommy Gelinas, a life long Valley resident. His passion for preservation is on every wall and in every glass case. Stepping inside the place, which opened in 2012, is like stepping back in time.
The ever growing collection features a treasure trove of San Fernando Valley historical artifacts, including rare photographs, vintage neon signs, post cards, art, books and clothing. Most of the clothes were designed by NUDIE. That's right, the famous cowboy duds designer to the stars. They are so close you could almost touch them. See how I tried. So close.

Speaking of Nudie, two of his ornate cars are also on display. Each adorned with guns and other western paraphernalia. Plus, they have one hell of a vintage bicycle collection. Banana seats anyone?
I suggest when you visit, you take your time, and breathe it all in. There is so much to look at packed into the main showroom and two adjoining side spaces you may miss a gem if you try to rush though.
Valley Relics is open to the public every Saturday from 10am to 3pm. Although they do open on other days for other special events like the classic car show my wife and kids took me to on Father's Day.

The museum is FREE to visit. Although donations are needed (and deeply appreciated) no one will be at the door shaking you down for cash. One trip through this retro reserve and you won't mind slipping them a few bucks. Or at least buying one of the many ultra cool repro t-shirts they have for sale.
Valley Relics Museum is a must for an old school glimpse into places that once made this stretch of California great. Take the journey back in time. You'll be so glad you did.