Los Angeles, the city of stars and glitz, has much more to offer than just Hollywood glamour. From ancient artifacts to modern art, the city boasts some of the most exciting museums in the world. Whether you’re a history buff or an art aficionado, Los Angeles has something to offer for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a day of exploration and learning, come with us on a journey through the best museums in Los Angeles. Get ready to be inspired, enlightened, and awed by the incredible exhibits and collections on display in the city of angels.
Viewcation Presents: The Best Museums In Los Angeles
Grammy Museum
For music enthusiasts (which is practically everyone, right?!), a visit to the GRAMMY Museum is an absolute must. Undoubtedly, the GRAMMYs is one of the biggest annual events in the entertainment industry, and at this museum, visitors can delve into the history of this prestigious award show and explore a diverse range of music genres and the incredible musicians who have made them popular.
What sets this museum apart is its highly interactive exhibits. The museum is a captivating experience that will revolutionize your understanding of music. In particular, visitors relish the entire floor that is dedicated to showcasing red-carpet attire and the interactive booths that provide an immersive listening experience of your favorite music with exceptional surround sound.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Looking for a modern and inspiring museum experience in LA? Look no further than the Museum of Contemporary Art, or MOCA, which should be at the top of anyone’s list! With three locations, MOCA Grand Avenue, The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, and MOCA Pacific Design Center, this museum has so much to offer for art lovers. From stunning still life to unique furniture, striking architecture, fascinating sculptures, and more, a day spent exploring MOCA’s exhibits is sure to be a fulfilling experience.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
The mere sight of dinosaur fossils can evoke a sense of childlike wonder within us. If you’re yearning to relive that feeling of youthful awe, the Natural History Museum should be on your bucket list. Witness the complete skeletons of a tyrannosaurus rex and triceratops and wander through the awe-inspiring Dinosaur Hall. Additionally, NHM houses a breathtaking collection of gems and minerals, as well as inviting outdoor Nature Gardens, allowing visitors to explore the wonders of the natural world in a unique and uplifting way.
Getty Center
The J. Paul Getty Trust’s art collection was once housed in the Getty Villa, a stunning coastal mansion with an impressive collection of antiquities. However, in 1997, the Getty Center was opened as a new home for the collection. This impressive complex boasts pavilions made of travertine and white metal, which display ornate French furniture, recognizable Impressionist pieces, and rotating exhibitions. Although it may not be easily accessible for everyone, admission to the center is free, and visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the hills and ocean to the west, all the way around to Downtown in the east. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this extensive collection, open daily except for Mondays.
Skirball
The Skirball Cultural Center never fails to enthrall visitors with its dynamic range of exhibitions, which encompass everything from art and history to pop culture. Currently, the center’s Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories exhibition, running until March 12, is a tribute to the incredible works of quilting artists. The Skirball’s Noah’s Ark exhibit is also a permanent fixture, featuring over 300 animal sculptures, all crafted from recycled materials, in an interactive exhibition that delights visitors of all ages. So whether you’re flying solo or visiting LA with the little ones, the Skirball Cultural Center is a must-visit destination that will keep you captivated and engaged with its fascinating exhibits.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
When someone mentions “LACMA,” the first thing that comes to mind for many is the iconic Urban Light exhibit, which provides the perfect backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos. However, the beauty of LACMA extends far beyond its exterior, as the museum boasts an impressive collection of awe-inspiring pieces from around the globe, making it the largest art museum on the West Coast.
Whether you’re interested in contemporary art or works from Latin America, Asia, or the Islamic world, LACMA has something to captivate everyone’s attention.
LACMA is all about inspiring creativity and showcasing various artistic mediums, from contemporary pieces to traditional portraits. The museum is surrounded by towering light pillars, as seen in popular films such as “No Strings Attached” and “Valentine’s Day.” These pillars are a must-see for locals and tourists alike, who frequently flock here to capture the perfect Instagram moment. With its year-round events and exhibits, LACMA is a fantastic destination that engages all the senses and keeps visitors coming back for more.
The Broad
Since its opening to the public in 2015, The Broad Museum has quickly become a must-visit destination in Los Angeles. With over 2,000 breathtaking works of contemporary art on display, The Broad, located in downtown LA, is a true gem.
Admission to The Broad is free, but you must reserve your tickets in advance through their website. The museum’s Infinity Room is a one-of-a-kind experience that should not be missed – a mesmerizing display of mirrors and LED lights that creates a cosmic atmosphere. Due to limited space, separate reservations for the Infinity Room are required.
California Science Center
The California Science Center is an ideal destination for families seeking a fun and educational outing that caters to all ages. Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits, such as a discovery center and a touch tank where kids can get up close and personal with sea creatures.
Gazing up at the immense Space Shuttle Endeavour is an experience that puts the vastness of outer space into sharp perspective, no matter who you are or how old you are. For anyone looking to explore the wonders of science, a trip to the California Science Center is a must-do activity in Los Angeles.
Museum of Dream Space
MoDs, short for Museum of Dream Space, is a one-of-a-kind destination that guarantees a unique and memorable experience. This interactive museum is specifically designed to cater to the social media generation, offering vibrant and visually stunning installations that are perfect for selfies.
As the first digital art museum in the US, MoDs takes visitors on an otherworldly journey, reminiscent of the infinity rooms made famous by artist Yayoi Kusama. Each room is carefully crafted to transport you to a dreamlike world, filled with strange and fascinating landscapes.
Unlike other museums in Los Angeles, MoDs is easily accessible and can be explored in just an hour or so. Located in the Beverly Center, it’s the perfect addition to any shopping trip or LA sightseeing adventure, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of art and imagination.
The Norton Simon Museum
In the late 90s, the Norton Simon Museum underwent a major transformation under the guidance of Frank Gehry, which not only raised its status but also allowed for the expansion of its collection. This created a serene atmosphere in the museum, which is still known for its impressive collection of Old Masters, including works by Rembrandt, Brueghel, and Frans Hals. Additionally, the museum boasts pieces by French Impressionists such as Monet, Manet, and Renoir. Don’t miss the chance to explore the museum’s temporary exhibits, and be sure to spend some time in the excellent sculpture garden.
The Wende
Experience a trip back in time at the Wende Museum, where you can explore an extensive collection of art and artifacts from the Cold War era sourced from various countries around the globe. The museum, which is named after the German word for “turning point,” is dedicated to fostering a comprehensive appreciation of the Cold War era and its lasting impact through engaging exhibitions and educational initiatives.
Annenberg Space For Photography
Explore the enchanting world of photography at the Annenberg Space for Photography, where every image tells a story. This museum houses an extensive collection of both digital and print photography that is sure to leave you in awe.
Beyond their permanent collection, the Annenberg Space for Photography also hosts a range of extraordinary exhibits. Recently, they featured the celebrated #GirlGaze exhibit, which encouraged women to pursue their passion for photography. With a constant rotation of exhibits, there is always something new and exciting to discover at the Annenberg Space for Photography. Keep an eye out for upcoming shows and don’t miss out on the chance to explore the magic of visual storytelling.
Peterson Automotive Museum
The Petersen Automotive Museum’s striking building is a standout in the Miracle Mile district. Car enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a world of vintage, race, and dream cars at this museum.
Cars have had a profound impact on our lives, particularly in Los Angeles, where traffic is infamous. The Petersen Automotive Museum not only features an impressive collection of automobiles, but also delves into the history of cars and their significance in our society.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Why choose between indoor and outdoor activities when you can have it all at The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens? Explore 16 beautiful gardens with unique themes such as the Desert, Japanese, and Chinese Gardens, and then step inside the galleries to admire a collection of European and American paintings, decorative art, and rare books. Whether you’re an art lover or a nature enthusiast, The Huntington has something to offer for all.
The Hammer Museum
In 1990, industrialist Armand Hammer established a museum to showcase his private collection, which opened just three weeks before his passing. Today, the Hammer Museum is a free institution that collaborates with UCLA, offering captivating exhibitions on contemporary art, photography, and design with a focus on local artists, as seen in its biennial “Made in Los Angeles” showcase. Alongside its small permanent collection, the Hammer also offers a diverse public events calendar, featuring free lectures and screenings that are often regarded as some of the best in the city.
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
And finally, we have the cherry on top of this list – The Academy of Motion Pictures. This museum is a celebration of the magic of cinema, exploring its rich history and bright future. Immerse yourself in the imaginative world of Hayao Miyazaki, be captivated by the captivating Stories of Cinema, and walk the red carpet of The Oscar Experience. Whether you are a devoted cinephile or simply someone who appreciates a good flick, this museum is a must-visit. And let’s be real, the photo opportunities here are top notch.
So, what do you think? Which LA museum are you most excited to visit? And can you think of any others that you feel deserve a place in this video? Let us know in the comments. And as always, thanks for watching and happy travels!