Visiting the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

When you think of visiting Los Angeles, you probably visualize the usual tourist-friendly activities: visiting the stars' homes, checking out the Hollywood Sign, and cruising down the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive. But have you considered visiting the Los Angeles County Museum of Art?

If not, it's time to add this spot to your itinerary. Movies are an art form, and LA wouldn't be LA without its ties to the filmmaking industry. Still, if you're an art lover, it would be a shame to pass up an opportunity to view the pieces here. Let's take a closer look.

Visiting the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Exhibitions

Because the art world is constantly evolving, it stands to reason that LACMA would feature a shifting roster of exhibitions. Some will be around longer than others, so if you're interested in a particular exhibit, check the dates when planning your trip.

Light, Space, Surface, featuring a series of pieces from LACMA's own collection, will be on display from April 2 through October 1, 2023. What Would You Say?: Activist Graphics from The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is featured from March 25 through June 24, 2023. And in the Resnick Pavilion, you'll find Afro-Atlantic Histories on display through September 10, 2023.

Dining

Making a day of it? Then you'll need to recharge at some point during your visit. Fortunately, LACMA offers a few different options for dining.

For a quick pick-me-up, stop by C+M (Coffee + Milk). In addition to espresso and other stimulating beverages, you'll find a variety of pastries and seasonal sandwiches. Try Ray's, a full-service eatery with indoor and outdoor seating if you want a sit-down meal. Note that you don't have to purchase museum admission to enjoy any of the onsite restaurants.

Planning Your Visit

As of this writing, visitors must pass a health screening before they're permitted to enter the building. This is done for your own safety as well as that of others. The wearing of facial coverings is also recommended, though it's not required at this time.

Finally, if you're visiting in 2023 or 2024, know that a new building is being constructed. It's scheduled to be finished in late 2024, but in the meantime, the artworks from the permanent collection will be featured in BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion on a rotating basis.

Tickets

Before you plan out your day, be aware that advance tickets are mandatory. You can't just decide to visit LACMA on a whim. To purchase your ticket, visit the museum's website at www.lacma.org, or call the ticket office at (323) 857-6010. The office is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday.

The current ticket cost is $25 for adults and $10 for youths and teens ages 3 to 17. Kids under three are admitted for free, as are members and residents of LA County. Small discounts apply to seniors and students with valid IDs.

Directions & Parking

The museum is at 5905 Wilshire Boulevard, near the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Several local buses stop just half a block away, so using public transportation is a breeze.

If you're driving, parking for the museum is available at the Pritzker Parking Garage on 6th Street. The garage can be found just east of Fairfax Avenue. There are pay stations at each lot that allow you to prepay the $20 charge. If you visit during a peak attendance period, a valet may be onsite to assist you. Remember that leaving valuables in your car is never a good idea, even if you're parking in a garage.

Did you enjoy your time at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art? If so, check out The Getty Center next. This museum features art from the Middle Ages in a stunning modern setting. Remember to stroll through the gardens while you're there.