The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum in the western United States, offering a vast collection of artworks that span the globe and thousands of years. Located on Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, LACMA is home to an impressive array of art from across different cultures, time periods, and artistic movements. The museum is a true cultural treasure, offering visitors an immersive experience of art and creativity. Whether you're an art lover or someone exploring the museum for the first time, LACMA provides something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.
Getting to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is easy, whether you’re coming from nearby areas in Los Angeles or beyond. LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, in the heart of the city’s museum district, which is part of the Miracle Mile area.
By Car: If you are driving, LACMA is accessible via major freeways such as the I-10 and the I-405. From these highways, take the Wilshire Blvd exit, and the museum will be located a short drive away. There is parking available in the museum’s parking structures, with fees ranging from $16 to $20, depending on the time and day. Be sure to check parking availability, especially on weekends or during special events, as it can fill up quickly.
By Public Transit: LACMA is well-served by public transit. You can take the Metro Red Line to the Wilshire/Normandie station and then transfer to the Metro Bus #720, which stops directly in front of the museum. Alternatively, if you're coming from other parts of Los Angeles, the museum is also easily accessible by various bus lines that run along Wilshire Boulevard.
Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate, meaning the weather is generally mild throughout the year. Summer temperatures can range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C), while winter temperatures are cooler but still mild, averaging between 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). The museum is mostly an indoor experience, so weather is not a major concern while visiting. However, if you're walking between buildings or planning to visit outdoor installations, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen on sunny days.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is open every day of the week except for Tuesdays and major holidays. Regular operating hours are as follows:
It’s always a good idea to check the museum's website or call ahead before your visit, as hours may change for special events, exhibitions, or holidays. Additionally, LACMA occasionally hosts special evening events, film screenings, or lectures, which may have different hours.
LACMA is renowned not only for the size of its collection but also for its impact on the art world and its ability to connect the public with art in a meaningful way. The museum houses over 120,000 works of art, spanning everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. Its diverse collection covers various forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, textiles, and more.
One of the key reasons for LACMA’s fame is its ability to represent art from all cultures. The museum’s exhibits cover art from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania, making it a global museum that reflects the diverse history of human expression. Additionally, LACMA is known for its cutting-edge contemporary art exhibits and installations, often collaborating with artists from around the world.
Another significant feature that makes LACMA famous is its architecture. The museum’s campus is a sprawling and visually stunning space that integrates modern architecture with historic buildings. The iconic outdoor installation “Urban Light,” made of restored street lamps, is one of the museum's most recognizable symbols and a popular photo opportunity for visitors.
Admission to LACMA is generally priced as follows:
Admission grants access to all permanent galleries, as well as the special exhibitions that may be on display. Some special exhibitions may require an additional fee, so be sure to check in advance if there are any special events or temporary exhibitions that you want to see.
Free Admission Days: LACMA offers free admission on specific days of the month (usually on the second Tuesday of each month), but these free days often see large crowds. If you plan to visit during these days, it’s a good idea to arrive early to ensure access to exhibits and to avoid long lines.
LACMA was founded in 1961 and has grown into a world-class institution. The museum was originally established to house the art collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of History, Science, and Art, and over time, it expanded to include a variety of different artistic genres. The museum’s collection grew through the efforts of both public and private donors, and it now ranks among the largest art museums in the United States.
The museum's campus features a mix of architecture that reflects its growth over the decades. LACMA’s main building, the Wilshire Building, was designed by the renowned architect William Pereira and opened in 1965. Several additions have been made to the museum since its opening, including the Bing Center (2007), designed by the architectural firm Renzo Piano Building Workshop, and the Resnick Pavilion (2010), which houses more modern works of art.
One of the most recognizable features of LACMA is the “Urban Light” installation by artist Chris Burden. This outdoor exhibit consists of 202 restored street lamps and serves as a striking contrast to the modern architecture of the museum. It has become one of the most photographed installations in Los Angeles and is a popular destination for visitors.
LACMA offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Some of the must-do activities include: