Nestled just south of Downtown Los Angeles, Exposition Park is a vibrant cultural hub that offers an impressive concentration of world-class museums, educational attractions, and lush green spaces. Unlike the sprawling, traffic-heavy nature of other LA neighborhoods, this district is remarkably walkable, making it a favorite destination for families, students, and curious travelers. Whether you are a science enthusiast, a sports fan, or simply looking for a beautiful place to enjoy a sunny California afternoon, the area provides a diverse range of activities without requiring you to move your car.
The neighborhood is perhaps best known as the home of the University of Southern California (USC) and the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. However, limiting your visit to just those landmarks would mean missing out on some of the finest museums on the West Coast. The area has undergone significant revitalization in recent years, blending historic architecture with modern, interactive spaces that appeal to visitors of all ages.
One of the greatest benefits of spending a day here is the accessibility of everything. You can easily walk from a prehistoric fossil hall to a space shuttle exhibit within minutes. The central Rose Garden acts as a beautiful connector between the various institutions, offering a fragrant and scenic route for pedestrians. Because the attractions are so close together, you save valuable time that would otherwise be spent navigating Los Angeles traffic, allowing you to pack more discovery into a single day.
Budget-conscious travelers will also appreciate that several of the park’s top-tier institutions offer free general admission. This makes Exposition Park one of the most affordable day trips in Los Angeles. You can provide your family with a high-quality educational experience that rivals paid theme parks, all while keeping your wallet intact. The combination of free access and high-caliber exhibits is rare in a city known for its expensive entertainment.
From the roar of the crowd at a football game to the quiet contemplation of a blooming flower, the area offers a unique sensory contrast. It is a place where art, history, science, and athletics intersect. To help you plan the perfect itinerary, we have curated a list of the absolute best experiences this dynamic neighborhood has to offer.
Lucas Museum of Narrative Art
| Address | One Lucas Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is such a unique and impressive place to visit! The building itself is beautiful, and there is so much to see inside. I really enjoyed how the exhibits bring storytelling to life through art, film, animation, and popular culture. There’s a great variety, so even if you’re not normally a museum person, there’s something interesting around every corner.
The exhibits are thoughtfully put together, and I especially enjoyed seeing the connection between art and the stories we grew up with. It’s a great place to take your time exploring, and I definitely recommend giving yourself several hours to really experience everything.
Overall, it was a fun, visually impressive, and memorable visit. Definitely worth checking out if you’re in Los Angeles!
*Star Wars fans: This is a must see*
Reproductions of artwork by Ralph McQuarrie, Doug Chiang, Ryan Church for the Original and Prequel trilogies.
Life-size creations of various vehicles — these alone are worth coming to the museum as a hardcore Star Wars fan. Best to arrive early to avoid the long queue for the Star Wars gallery.
The museum’s stunning collection of work is not limited to just Star Wars. Beautiful artwork for fantasy, scifi, manga, comics, westerns, history, and individual artists. All artwork is on the fourth floor.
On the ground floor, the museum has a theatre on one side and a cafe + store on the other side flanking the main lobby.
On the second floor is a library *filled* with really fascinating books. I spent almost an hour in here browsing and only the bottom section of the three tier library was opened. I sincerely hope they open the two top tiers for members to browse!
The library overlooks the outdoor garden which flows from the second floor down to the ground floor. The sculpture garden is massive.
The fifth (top) floor has a smaller section of murals, including a massive 1934 Fresco reproduction of ‘Man, Controller of the Universe’ by Diego Rivera.
Also on the top floor is Skywalker Grill, which is *RESERVATION ONLY.* This is a bit of a bummer for members, as reservations are already booked out until November. But I will be back for the Grill.
Parking is below ground, with easy access to the museum entrance.
The Lucas Museum is sure to inspire the next generation of filmmakers. Thank you George Lucas!
It was truly something out of this world! So well done and the staff were amazing. Had a small issue and Storm went above and beyond to help me with a solution. Remember it’s brand new and will have a few links like any other new place opening. Just know you’re in a magical place that took so much energy to make. This is a must see when in LA or to even travel for
A great building with someone’s (George’s) private art collection. The member previews were disappointingly crowded with very long lines to get into the cinema exhibit. Some of the art is really incredible, but there’s no rhyme or reason as to the curation and it comes off feeling like visiting your rich arty friend’s house. Even the art descriptions themselves could have been expanded to describe how the art was collected or sourced. We came from the East Coast for the opening and were pretty underwhelmed.
I went to the preview and the party. They were pretty unprepared for a crowd and the staff didn't know how to guide they kept giving us wrong directions.
Everything is in the higher levels so you had to use an elevator which is really inconvenient since there's only so many and too many people. It got packed quickly you couldn't even enter the elevator lobby.
The party was worse since people were coming in at the same time instead of time slots. YOU COULDN'T GO ANYWHERE it was soooo packed. They had snacks and drinks but we didn't get anything they ran out well before not even water. They had to open up all the service elevators and fire stairs since there elevators were not enough. If you had came late like the invite said you would've been stuck in lines the whole time. If you were lucky you got experience the 5th floor, which was at capacity the whole time so we got in at the end of the night 🫠
The party was worse than the day. They did better for the creators day and they got better merch!!!
Pretty disappointed to be a member right now.
Exposition Park
| Address | 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 744-2294 |
Although flowers are in bloom it's a little bit lackluster compared to when I went many years ago. But it's always nice to go to since it's right next to the History museum and the science Center. I will say I wish there was less graffiti on the art decorations near the entrance by the metro.
The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is one of the few stadiums in the world to have hosted the Olympic Games twice, in 1932 and 1984. It will also be a major venue for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, making it the first stadium in history to host events for three Summer Olympics. In addition, it will serve as one of the main venues for the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
What An Incredible Place to take in some great sights, take a long walk with a loved one through the rose garden, and marvel at the History that surrounds this place.
What's also so Incredible are the free museums that surround this place.
Don't miss this California Gem!!
I loved the open air feel of this place. So much to see and do. We attended a wine🍷 tasting here which was phenomenal 😋.
Exposition Park is a fantastic place to spend the day, with beautiful green spaces, well-kept grounds, and plenty to see and do. Whether you’re visiting the museums, relaxing on the lawn, or taking a walk, the park offers something for everyone. Clean, spacious, and definitely worth a visit!
California Science Center
| Address | 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 724-3623 |
I recently visited the California Science Center and had a really great experience. It's amazing that admission is free (except for the IMAX and Space Shuttle Endeavour exhibit) for how much there is to see.
The highlights were definitely the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the ecosystems with the kelp forest, and all the hands-on exhibits for kids. Everything is very interactive, well maintained, and educational without being boring. Staff were friendly and helpful.
Overall, highly recommend, especially if you have kids. You can easily spend 3-4 hours here. We will definitely be back.
This place is absolutely amazing and perfect for a day out with the family!
Getting to see the actual Space Shuttle Endeavour up close is a mind-blowing experience and worth the visit all on its own. The permanent exhibits are completely free to enter, which is a fantastic bonus. They have tons of interactive, hands-on science displays for kids, plus a really cool aquarium section with a walk-through tunnel.
Everything is super clean, well organized, and the staff are incredibly friendly. Definitely budget a few hours to see everything. Highly recommend!
California Science Center is honestly one of the most interesting museums in Los Angeles, especially if you enjoy science, space, and interactive exhibits. There’s a huge variety of things to explore, from aerospace displays to hands-on exhibits that make the experience feel engaging instead of just walking past information boards.
The highlight for me was definitely seeing the Space Shuttle Space Shuttle Endeavour. Seeing it in person is genuinely impressive because you don’t realize how massive it is until you’re standing next to it.
I also liked that the museum feels enjoyable for both adults and kids. The space is large, well organized, and easy to spend several hours exploring without getting bored. Definitely one of the best educational attractions in LA
Took the girls today and it was great! We got to the mummy 3d movie which was amazing. It wasn’t packed at all. Everything was good. The girls liked everything. It’s also pretty clean. The staff was amazing in answering all the questions we had. Will be going back soon.
Awesome learning environment for all ages, great for family outings. I am local, and I never tire of visiting. The Science Center never runs out of interesting expos, and this time it was the Mummy Exhibit. Again, awesome learning experience for all. My only three observations: some of the exhibits need revamping, they seem to have run out of real estate so they can't expand their operations, and finally they close way too early. Otherwise, it is a great place to visit, the staff is very nice and accommodating.
Exposition Park Rose Garden
| Address | 701 State Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (213) 763-0114 |
Very pretty area to rest and take in the beauty of the flowers. Could use a little more tlc but it does look really nice. The fountain was working when I went, very nice. There are teens vaping and unhoused but it’s a public park 🤷 they host weddings and private events from what I understand. The atmosphere is very nice. If there were security it might help deter the drugs and graffiti. The flowers do appear to be well-maintained, if a little sparse. Overall a nice visit, pleasant.
It's very nice for a relaxing walk and they also have 2 gazebos to sit down and enjoy the smell of all the different roses they have. The garde is pretty well maintained and it smell very good. The fountain was not working at this time, or maybe just not started at the time of my visit.
Free entry park located behind the California Science Center in LA. The rose garden is beautiful and well maintained. It’s clean, calm, and a perfect place to relax for some time.
A nice place to sit, people watch and observe the roses. Perfect for a picnic date or family hang out. Great for kids. Journal. Write poetry. Take photos of flowers.
Beautiful park, full of beautiful roses. Brings back memories. The best park to take wedding pictures or any special type of event. Most importantly its dog friendly 🐕
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
| Address | 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 763-3466 |
I had an amazing experience at the Natural History Museum. From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the stunning architecture and the welcoming atmosphere. The exhibits were beautifully curated, informative, and engaging for all ages.
The dinosaur section was definitely a highlight—seeing the life-sized skeletons up close was unforgettable. I also loved how interactive many of the displays were, making it easy to learn while having fun. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer questions.
Everything was well-organized, clean, and easy to navigate, which made the visit even more enjoyable. Whether you're going with family, friends, or even solo, this museum is a must-see. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, educational, and memorable experience!
We had a great first experience at NHM of Los Angeles. Upon entering the dinosaur hall, we were greeted by a wonderful docent named Jane. It was a real treat to be led around the dinosaur exhibits by someone so knowledgeable and informative. I realize this type of experience may not be the norm but my 7 year old son and I truly enjoyed it. Thank you Jane!
We also bought tickets to see the 3D movie T. Rex. Nice theater with comfortable seating and a good show.
I would definitely come back to explore other areas that we missed today.
Founded in 1913 and located within Exposition Park, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) is the largest natural history museum in the western United States.
It houses over 35 million specimens and artifacts spanning 4.5 billion years of history.
The original 1913 Spanish Renaissance Revival building itself is an architectural masterpiece imbued with a sense of classical epic grandeur.
Spent most of my time here at the Dinosaur Hall. This is the world's only museum display featuring fossil skeletons of a T. rex across three distinct growth stages—baby, juvenile, and adult.
Watching the three differently sized T. rexes gathered around a prey skeleton creates an intensely captivating visual experience.
And was lucky to bump into a wedding (people were getting ready to commence it after the 5pm closing time), while not so surprised, as architecturally, the entire building is an amazing masterpiece itself, so not just the display contents but the structure.
Oh man this place is amazing. They have dinosaurs fossils, reconstructed dinosaurs from fossils, animals from different countries, a new Orca exhibit, and more. Level I there is like a little science center type deal for kids to interact with (although I as an adult interacted to). Level II is the primary museum, thats where you'll find all the main attractions I listed above. Level III is birds of the world. I think they have almost every type of bird discovered. The place is really cool, its not too pricey, and its a really interesting place to visit. Whether you are visiting from out of State or Town, or whether you live here in Los Angeles. This place is an amazing place to visit with or without kids.
The Natural History Museum in Los Angeles is an absolute must-visit. We took our three-year-old, and he was completely amazed by the massive dinosaur skeletons—it's a total dream for toddlers. While he loved the dinos, I was personally blown away by the Gem and Mineral hall. The collection is so stunning that there simply was not enough time for me to press my face up against all the displays I wanted to see. Whether you're going for the kids or your own curiosity, you could easily spend all day here and still want more!
Space Shuttle Endeavour
| Address | 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (323) 724-3623 |
Seeing the Space Shuttle Endeavour in person was honestly incredible. Photos really don’t prepare you for the actual size of the shuttle — standing next to it makes you realize how massive and historically important it is.
The entire hangar has an impressive atmosphere, especially if you’re interested in space exploration, engineering, or NASA history. Being able to see a real shuttle this close feels surreal, and the exhibits around it help make the experience even more immersive.
I also liked that the space feels accessible both for adults and kids. Even if you’re not deeply into aerospace, it’s still hard not to be impressed by the scale and history behind it. Definitely one of the most memorable museum experiences in Los Angeles
Great exhibits here. Plenty of things to see and do. When finished they will have the entire shuttle upright and pointed to the sky. This is a must see attraction as it has a place in US history and the space program from nasa there’s isn’t that many place quite like this so it’s a must see attraction in my opinion. Metro station is nearby and a father cheaper way to get in and out of exposition park.
$3 to see one of human history's greatest technological and engineering achievement. Give your kids the benefit of seeing this, it might inspire them to reach higher.
The Shuttle exhibit is a really well done and for the price, there is no reason to miss this. They have a gift shop in there. Don't miss the External Tank outside. Excellent visit!
Today Tuesday 30 January 24th we came to visit Exposition Park and the future location of the Samuel or shine Space Center where the Space Shuttle Endeavor will be mounted in a vertical position inside a Center building!
The area is still under construction and it was cool to see the space shuttle mounted to the external storage tank and rocket boosters! Now they just got to build the building around it and no word yet on when the center will open!
It is worth a trip down to Exposition Park to see the shuttle and its current condition as likely the rest of the building will be going up very very soon and you won't be able to see any of it until it opens back up!
AMAZING exhibit with lots of information about all sorts of space missions. With 135 placards of information along the walls, this place will keep you entertained for over an hour if you so choose. The shuttle is GIANT and truly mind blowing. The gift shop is actually pretty cute, and the little jackets are adorable. This is definitely worth going to the science center. Once again, admission is FREE.
EXPO Center
| Address | 3980 Bill Robertson Ln, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 763-0114 ext. 231 |
I really like EXPO because they have a variety of activities for anyone to do!🥳I take violin lessons here🎻 people are very nice👍🏼I think they help shape kids into better people by helping with attendance and stuff😁My friend takes swimming and he enjoys it🏊🏼I do indeed, If you want to take any classes to go to EXPO...(although I’m not sure if they fully have what you’re looking for)😎
The facility is very nice and welcoming.
When I was like 10 years old with friends went to the smiming pool
This place was literally my second home growing up. I went to the After School program everyday growing up. I also went to their Summer Camp, Teen Club, and Martial Arts. They offer great activities for children of all ages. I also got helped in tutoring and did a lot community service and everything I did was fun! I loved the people that worked there at the time and met great kids from different schools. The years I went here was from 2003 to 2010. Also, my first job was here and they helped me write my first resume and recite on my interview!
I was misinformed about the start dates to turn in summer camp applications and was told a supervisor would return my call, and nobody ever called back. They hardly answer the phone. It's best to go in person to get any answers, and even then, you might not get the right information because front desk staff is always changing.
California African American Museum
| Address | 600 State Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 744-7432 |
The museum is interesting, but kind of small and you can see everything very fast. It's good if you want to have a fast glimpse of the history and see some exhibits. The entry is free and there is no need for a booking. All in all it was an interesting experience.
The California African American Museum is a beautiful and inspiring space that highlights the incredible work of Black artists, architects, and visionaries. It was smaller than I expected, but very well maintained and thoughtfully curated. Each exhibit was engaging and educational, with a great mix of history and modern artistry. I truly enjoyed the experience and would recommend it to anyone visiting the area. A wonderful celebration of culture and creativity!
We thoroughly enjoyed this museum. We went there two days in a row. The Willie Birch: Stories to Tell exhibit was my favorite. The Free and Queer: Black Californian Roots of Gay Liberation was interesting. And of course it’s also a pleasure to learning more about Langston Hughes. We will be back soon.
I didn't notice this place when I walked past the Douglas DC-8 plane. It felt like the park office of the entire venue. It's a museum. So glad I went to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which showcases individuals in history. I felt like its very limited in terms on what they have in terms with subjects like racism, slavery or least mentioned of the riots of 65 & 92 well that was my expectations since I previously listed one in DC felt like had one in Cali.
The building is alright. I found myself wanting to experience it and I did staff very friendly and kind would give it a try while you can before you visit the History and Science in that location.
Nice museum not crowded. Free entry and parking was $20. Tuesday morning super clean staff was nice and helpful. The Exhibits changes check website if your looking for a a certain exhibition.
Wonder Walk Hollywood
| Address | 6751 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Phone | (213) 876-7151 |
I had so much fun at Wonder Walk Hollywood. From the second I walked in, it felt like stepping into a giant creative playground. Every room had a different vibe — bold colors, cool sets, and those perfect “wait, take a pic of me here” moments that make content basically shoot itself.
The staff was super sweet, the space felt fresh and updated, and I loved that it’s right on Hollywood Blvd so the energy outside matches the energy inside. Plus, being open late is a win for me because I always end up creating at night. I left with a camera roll full of bangers and honestly, I’d go again just to capture more
Had such an amazing experience at the wonder walk museums! My favorite was the giant house. My friend and I got so many cute videos and photos, plus it was so fun! There is so much detail in each museum and the workers were super friendly. My personal favorite was the giant house. It’s definitely lots of fun for all ages and so worth it!
The Wonder Walk experience was a blast! We had so much fun taking photos and going through the different rooms and experiences here. The photos and videos we took here turned out amazing due to all their creative and colorful spaces! Last of all, the staff was amazing! Everyone was so helpful and friendly. They help you navigate the rooms and offer suggestions, which I really appreciated.
Kid friendly. Would recommend bringing your family and getting them all they all are really great and don’t forget to ask for Charles he is the best.
Charles & Elijah were so helpful and nice! They Showed us how to get the best pictures! Recommend coming!
California Science Center IMAX Theater
| Address | 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Great options right now I came for the Blue Angels it was a great experience. They have more options available. Website has movie options and times . They do have a box office here if you prefer a physical ticket. There’s plenty of restrooms there’s also a food chart available at the California science center. Rose garden and other museums near by enjoy your time at exposition park . Can’t wait for the Star Wars museum to open up. Train station is also conveniently located in between the park and USC.
This is an excellent IMAX theater. It is a true IMAX not the fake type. The screen, sound system, and auditorium are amazing.
Fantastic IMAX experience! I'm ashamed to admit, I've called Los Angeles my home all my life, and this was my first time experiencing the auditorium. There was hard rain yesterday, I was in Exposition Park already, and figured trying out the IMAX theatre for the first time.
Prices are exceptional, only $9. Nice clean lobby, concession with everything you need.
This is one of the few original Los Angeles IMAX screens, I don't count an AMC IMAX authentic. This is genuine. Every seat is a perfect view, 8 stories of sheer awe inspiring visuals. I saw the Blue Angels, I'll tell you, that was breathtaking seeing the planes come down in front of you.
Only reason I docked a star, theatre is phenomenal, the kids. Sorry. Too many bored kids had too take me out of the zone. I heard " Mommy I'm bored. " " When's it over?" "I'm scared " repeatedly. I know this is designed for families, but if little Johnny can't sit still, don't take your kid. That simple.
With our friends from Church we have gone several times, we love this place. We are from Bakersfield and going there is such a joy. I loved the Blue Whales, that was beautiful! And the Cities of the future, I enjoyed that too, I just feel bad that we didn’t stay for the other doc. We will just have to go again. Thank you so much.
My kids and I visited the IMAX theatre and we had a fantastic time. We are going again in a few weeks to see another another educational film.
The Broad
| Address | 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (213) 232-6200 |
If you find yourself in Los Angeles, you absolutely must go—without a doubt! First of all, as soon as you plan your trip, I highly recommend getting free general admission tickets from their website. Why? Because without a ticket in advance, you’re likely to face long lines, especially on weekends.
Where do I even begin? Every section is legendary! Honestly, stop reading this, grab your ticket, head over there, and enjoy the art. Highly recommended! Oh, and of course, you know you aren't supposed to touch the artworks, right? If you do try to touch them, the staff in the room will politely warn you.
You’ll also find plenty of great spots for taking photos.
Parking cost $19. I can’t believe I have never been here living in LA. This is a really cool art museum. I loved the table and chair set up because as a tall person I have never felt short! The art is interesting. They have multiple different types throughout the museum. Michael Jackson sculpture, the blue, balloon, dog sculpture, the notes to your mom room, the writing in blue room, All very cool. Some of the stuff in here though I just did not want to see….
Great experience at the museum. I had not looked up the museum, but of course was familiar with the name so I did not have any expectations of the art.
As I was walking in the museum, I noticed work that looked to be Basquiat and was pleasantly surprised that I was correct. I also love the work from Warhol and was appreciative to see it in person.
Overall, it was a great experience and provided great photo ops. I also appreciate the fact that it was free and easy to get into. We had to get tickets, although it was free entry however this process was seamless. I would recommend getting them ahead of time, however, because sometimes sell out.
Visiting The Broad was an absolutely incredible experience from start to finish! This contemporary art museum features a stunning collection of breathtaking, world-class modern masterpieces that will completely captivate any art lover. The architectural design of the building itself is a spectacular work of art, setting the perfect tone before you even step through the doors.
The absolute best part about visiting this museum is that general admission is completely free! It is such a wonderful gift to the community and makes accessing amazing cultural experiences available to everyone. However, because it is incredibly popular, you absolutely must book your tickets online well ahead of time. General admission tickets open up monthly, and they tend to disappear very quickly, so planning your visit in advance is essential to secure your preferred date and time slot.
Once inside, everything is beautifully curated, spacious, and easy to navigate. The staff members are welcoming, highly knowledgeable, and always ready to help guide you through the galleries. Whether you are a local resident or a tourist exploring the city, this museum is a must-visit destination. It is an absolute 5-star
The Broad Museum in Downtown Los Angeles is a must-visit attraction. This architectural marvel of a museum offers free admission, but you must book your tickets online in advance to choose your preferred time slot. They also have a special exhibition that incurs a small fee. The museum features an impressive collection of contemporary art, featuring renowned artists like Warhol, Murakami, and Basquiat. Their bookstore is a treasure trove of vibrant and delightful gifts for yourself and your loved ones. It’s an excellent place to spend hours exploring and admiring the art. Another exciting aspect is the nearby Walt Disney Museum, which resembles the Getty Museum. It’s a fascinating sight to behold as you leave the Broad Museum.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
| Address | 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (323) 857-6000 |
LACMA was one of the highlights of my trip to LA. The museum is large, with a wide variety of art to explore. I especially loved the live performance. It was so creative and engaging that I ended up staying for almost an hour just for the show. The artists were incredibly talented. The nearby La Brea Tar Pits added a unique touch to the experience. I'm so glad I visited!
David Geffen Galleries at Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) were impressive. The building is massive and extends above Wilshire Boulevard.
The art museum is located on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, near the La Brea Tar Pits. There are active digs next to the museum. It was nice to walk around and explore them. Impressionism at LACMA was outstanding as well. Particularly Nymphéas by Claude Monet was inspiring to see. Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a great place to visit in Los Angeles.
LACMA is definitely worth visiting! After the renovation, three buildings are now open, and there’s already so much to see. The museum features an impressive collection of famous artworks, and the galleries are spacious, clean, and well organized.
Plan to spend at least a full day here if you want to enjoy everything at a relaxed pace. Even with plenty of visitors, it never felt too crowded or noisy, making it a wonderful place to appreciate the art. Highly recommended if you’re visiting Los Angeles!
This museum is absolutely incredible and a total must-visit if you are in LA!
The art collection here is massive and covers a bit of everything, so there's always something cool to see regardless of your taste. Of course, checking out the iconic "Urban Light" installation outside is a highlight and looks so beautiful, especially when the lamps are lit up in the evening. The whole campus has a really cool, open vibe and the staff were super helpful.
Definitely budget a few hours to really take it all in. Highly recommend stopping by!
I highly recommend this museum. It had been over 10 years since the last time I came and it beat my expectations!
Things to know:
-Parking cost $23 at the Pritzker Parking on 6th street. There will be a sign that says “LACMA” parking. I was thrown off because there was another sign that said “LOT FULL” but when I asked the parking attendant about finding more parking he pointed me to the same lot just on a lower floor. I did have to drive around the lot a few times until someone left (Max 10 minutes) And they offer FREE valet parking ( I didn’t know at the time) So when you see their parking attendants ask them about it. So essentially it is “full” you just have to wait a little because people are constantly leaving or ask for valet parking. This was around 5ish during a Jazz night.
-There are elevators that will take you to the entrance of the museum. Choose “Ground”.
-LA residents get in free after 3pm on weekdays. I showed them a bill with my current address and ID. In addition they ask for your email address.
-All staff, from the people that check you in, to the security guards offer professional customer service and are helpful if you have any questions (which greatly helps with my social anxiety😅)
-The David Geffen Galleries are huge. I was there for 2 hours and didn’t get to finish seeing all the art. Beautifully designed and the art was beautifully displayed. Even the wall colors were on point.
-You may need more than 4 hours if you enjoy taking in art. There is ALOT to see inside and outside.
-Bathrooms are clean and scattered throughout.
-Pay for your parking before you leave the kiosk. They will be by the elevators in the parking garage.
-Jazz nights get PACKED!!! So get there early, like before 5pm if you want a good seat. That includes if you’re bringing your own chair.
*I didn’t get any food or visit the store so I can’t speak on either one.
I will definitely be coming back to the finish exploring the rest of the museum.
Essential Tips for Visiting Exposition Park
To maximize your enjoyment and minimize potential stress, it helps to plan your visit with a few local insights in mind. The park is a shared space for tourists, university students, and sports fans, which means the atmosphere and logistics can change drastically depending on the day of the week. Here is how to navigate the area like a pro.
Plan your visit around game days. The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and BMO Stadium host major sporting events and concerts that attract tens of thousands of visitors. While the energy is electric, parking becomes extremely expensive and scarce. If you are visiting for the museums, check the event schedule first and avoid weekends when USC football or LAFC soccer is playing at home.
Utilize the Metro E Line. Driving in Los Angeles can be a headache, but Exposition Park has its own dedicated light rail stops. The Expo Park/USC station drops you off directly at the heart of the action. Taking the Metro is often cheaper and faster than parking, especially during special events, and it allows you to avoid the post-event traffic gridlock.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. While the park is compact compared to the rest of LA, it still spans over 160 acres. You will likely walk between the museums, through the gardens, and around the stadiums. The terrain is flat and paved, but the distance adds up quickly, so leave the stiff dress shoes at home.
Pack a picnic or budget for food trucks. While there are dining options inside the museums and around USC, they can be pricey or crowded during lunch hours. The Rose Garden and the grassy areas near the Coliseum are perfect for a picnic. If you prefer to buy food, look for the food trucks that often park near the museums during peak hours, offering a tastier and sometimes cheaper alternative to cafeteria fare.
Check for free admission days and reservations. While the California Science Center offers free permanent exhibits, the Natural History Museum and the California African American Museum often have specific free days or require timed-entry reservations. Always check the official websites before you go to secure your spot and avoid being turned away during busy holiday periods.
Start early to beat the heat and the crowds. The California sun can be intense, especially in the summer months. Many of the outdoor spaces, like the Rose Garden, offer limited shade. Arriving when the museums open allows you to enjoy the outdoor areas in the cooler morning air and gives you a head start before the tour buses and school groups arrive.
Visiting Exposition Park is more than just a sightseeing stop; it is an immersion into the cultural heartbeat of Los Angeles. The ability to transition from the ancient bones of dinosaurs to the futuristic technology of space travel in a single afternoon is an experience unique to this neighborhood. It is a place that sparks curiosity in children and reignites it in adults.
Whether you spend your day marveling at artistic masterpieces, cheering in a historic stadium, or simply lounging in the grass surrounded by roses, the park offers a welcome respite from the typical urban hustle. It stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to public education, art, and community spirit, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the City of Angels.
