MOCA Grand Avenue: LA's Artistic Heartbeat

During your time in LA, take in an invigorating dose of culture at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). The museum has two locations, but MOCA Grand Avenue is the one we'll focus on, as it has a cozier vibe than its cousin in Little Tokyo.

When we say that MOCA Grand Avenue showcases contemporary art, we mean that it highlights artists from the 1940s onward. The offerings are eclectic, ranging from paint on canvas to mixed-media sculptures to light shows.

Here's what you need to know before you visit the MOCA Grand Avenue location.

The Basics

The MOCA Grand is located at 250 South Grand Avenue. It's important not to confuse this location with the larger warehouse space in Little Tokyo, although that one is worth a visit in its own right.

You'll need to go to the "Visit" page of the MOCA website to reserve a timed ticket. Once you arrive, you might have a short wait, but since the time slots are reserved in advance, lines move quickly. There are cubbies inside the entrance where you can store larger bags, so you don't have to lug them around as you tour the space.

Remember to keep a few paces away from the pieces. It's permissible to take photos as long as you don't engage the flash. If you have any questions regarding the rules or the art, ask one of the nearby attendants.

Dining

You don't have to leave MOCA to grab a bite to eat. On-site dining is available at Lemonade, a fast-casual restaurant specializing in seasonal dishes.

Lemonade opens at 10 AM daily and serves until 5 PM most days. The exceptions are Monday, when the restaurant closes at 3 PM, and Saturday and Sunday when it stays open until 6 PM.

On rare occasions, the space will be closed to the public all day. If you'd like to dine at Lemonade, check the website to ensure it's open on the day you'll be visiting.

Practical Details

As we mentioned, you'll need to purchase a timed ticket through the website to gain entry to the museum. Here are the current hours of operation:

Sunday—11 AM to 6 PM

Monday—Closed

Tuesday—11 AM to 5 PM

Wednesday—11 AM to 5 PM

Thursday—11 AM to 8 PM

Friday—11 AM to 5 PM

Saturday—11 AM to 6 PM

General admission is free, but special exhibitions require an $18 fee unless you're a member. EBT cardholders and children under 12 can also visit the special exhibits at no charge. For seniors and students, the fee is $10.

Parking can be a hassle in this part of the city. It's best to use public transportation to get to the museum. If you're driving, the nearest parking lot is the California Plaza on South Olive Street. Be forewarned that the fee for parking at the Plaza is $11.50 on evenings and weekends and can cost up to $40 daily during the week.

In Closing

Did you enjoy your visit to the MOCA Grand Avenue? For another helping of art (albeit with a slightly different flavor), check out The Getty Center & Museum while in the city. The space displays stunning art that dates back to the Middle Ages, all within a strikingly modern setting. Admission to this museum is also free, and you could easily spend a day exploring the various exhibits.

Enjoy the rest of your time in the Big Orange!