Small, charming, and seemingly frozen in time, this town is considered one of the most beautiful in the state and the country. Known for its love of vintage cars and its foodie scene praised for its top-tier quality, this Northern California gem is also home to the largest collection of Star Wars memorabilia.
Officially recognized by the Guinness World Records, Rancho Obi-Wan is a nonprofit museum in Petaluma, California, that houses the world’s largest collection of Star Wars items. Curated by Steve Sansweet, the collection spans an impressive 9,000 square feet filled with rare treasures from a galaxy far, far away.
The museum features over 500,000 Star Wars-related items, from vintage action figures and rare posters to fan-made art and international merchandise. The collection offers a nostalgic, in-depth journey through the cultural phenomenon that began in 1977 and continues to evolve today.
Visitors can book guided tours, which are part immersive storytelling experience and part behind-the-scenes look at fandom history. The museum emphasizes community, creativity, and the enduring legacy of Star Wars, with themed events, fundraisers, and limited-edition collectibles available for supporters.
But beyond this massive museum, the town of Petaluma has another deep connection to George Lucas: it was one of the main filming locations for American Graffiti, the iconic 1970s classic widely considered the filmmaker’s first major success.
George Lucas began filming American Graffiti in San Rafael in June 1972, but after local businesses complained about late-night shoots, production moved swiftly to Petaluma. From June 28 through early August, most of the iconic cruising scenes (especially along Petaluma Boulevard North and Frates Road) were shot in the downtown area.
Today, many of the original spots remain recognizable: the vacant lot beside the Mystic Theatre where Curt and the Pharaohs sabotage a police car axle, and the Paradise Road drag race scene filmed on Frates Road, still evoking the nostalgic vibe of the film.
For decades, Petaluma has hosted an annual event called “Salute to American Graffiti,” organized by Cruisin’ the Boulevard. The celebration pays tribute to the film with a classic car parade that cruises down the very same streets featured in the movie, drawing tens of thousands of enthusiasts every spring.
Rancho Obi Wan info:
📆 Hours: Visits are only allowed after scheduling a guided visit.
🎟️ Ticket info: General admission $80
📍 Location: 659 Chapman Ln, Petaluma, CA 94952