Los Angeles County Museum Of Art

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): Ultimate Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) stands as the largest art museum in the western United States and a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ vibrant Miracle Mile district. Since its establishment as an independent institution in 1961, LACMA has grown into a pivotal cultural hub, housing over 150,000 works that span 6,000 years of artistic expression. The museum offers visitors a journey through global cultures and artistic movements—encompassing ancient civilizations, European masters, Asian art, Latin American treasures, and contemporary installations (LACMA About; Archova Visuals).

This guide provides essential information for planning your visit, including up-to-date visiting hours, ticket pricing, accessibility services, must-see exhibitions, public programs, and tips for making the most of your LACMA experience. You’ll also find recommendations for nearby attractions and practical advice for a seamless trip.

Entrance of Broad Contemporary Art Museum in July 2023

Cristo de Ixmiquilpan or Señor de Santa Teresa painting by José de Páez

Los Angeles County Museum of Art complex with modern architecture and garden

Kelly and Robert Day Garden near LACMA with vibrant greenery and modern sculptures in July 2023

Broad Contemporary Art Museum building under construction at Los Angeles County Museum of Art on Wilshire Boulevard

Los Angeles County Museum of Art Broad Contemporary Art Museum building and BP Entrance under construction at Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles California

The Virgin Mary bestowing a chasuble to Saint Ildefonso in a religious painting by Nicolás Correa

Architects Hugh Hardy, Malcolm Holzman, and Norman Pfeiffer discussing Los Angeles County Museum of Art drawings in NYC office, 1981

Palm trees at LACMA museum under blue sky

Turkoman Prisoner in traditional 17th-century Iranian attire, miniature painting from Iran's Isfahan region

Turkoman Prisoner artwork from Iran, 16th century

History and Significance
Visiting Information
Collections and Must-See Exhibits
Special Events and Public Programs
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion

History and Significance

Institutional Evolution

LACMA originated within the Los Angeles Museum of History, Science, and Art in 1910, but became an independent entity in 1961 to focus exclusively on visual arts (LACMA About). Its Wilshire Boulevard campus opened in 1965 with modernist buildings by William Pereira. Subsequent expansions include the Anderson (Art of the Americas) Building, the Pavilion for Japanese Art by Bruce Goff, and the historic May Company department store, now housing the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.

Growth and Architectural Innovation

LACMA’s campus reflects a blend of architectural styles, including postmodern and organic forms. The upcoming David Geffen Galleries by Peter Zumthor will further unify the museum and provide state-of-the-art exhibition spaces (Archova Visuals). Outdoor installations like Chris Burden’s “Urban Light” and Michael Heizer’s “Levitated Mass” have become city icons (Klook).

Visiting Information

Location and Getting There

LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Boulevard in the heart of the Miracle Mile. It’s easily accessible by Metro bus lines, and the nearby Metro D Line (Purple) extension will improve access further. Onsite and nearby parking are available, though spaces can be limited during peak times (whichmuseum.com).

Visiting Hours (as of July 2025)

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Closed Wednesdays

Hours may vary for holidays or special events. Always check the official LACMA website before your visit.

Ticket Prices and Admission

Adults (non-LA residents): $25
Adults (LA residents): $20
Seniors (65+): Discounted rates
Students (with valid ID): Discounted rates
Children (12 and under): Free
Metro pass holders: $2 off (exp1.com)

Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for weekends and free admission days, to avoid lines.

Free Admission Days

Second Tuesday of each month: Free for all
Weekdays after 3 p.m.: Free for LA County residents
First full weekend of the month: Free for Bank of America cardholders
Outdoor installations: Always free (exp1.com)

Accessibility

LACMA prioritizes accessibility for all:

Wheelchair-accessible entrances and galleries
Accessible restrooms
Complimentary wheelchairs
Assistive listening devices for tours/events
Service animals welcome

For more details, visit the LACMA accessibility page.

Collections and Must-See Exhibits

Permanent Collection Highlights

American & European Art: Works by Diego Rivera, Rembrandt, Picasso
Modern & Contemporary Art: Features Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, Mark Rothko
Asian Art: Over 20,000 objects, from ancient statuary to modern pieces
Latin American & Pre-Columbian Art: Includes Olmec artifacts, Frida Kahlo paintings
Islamic Art: Ceramics, textiles, manuscripts
Decorative Arts & Design: Furniture/design icons like Charles and Ray Eames
Photography & Film: From 19th-century daguerreotypes to digital art

Outdoor Installations

Urban Light (Chris Burden): 202 restored cast-iron street lamps; a 24/7 photo favorite
Levitated Mass (Michael Heizer): 340-ton granite boulder over a walkway; interactive experience
B. Gerald Cantor Sculpture Garden: Rodin bronzes in a serene outdoor setting (citybop.com)

Gallery Spaces

Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM): Large-scale contemporary works
Resnick Exhibition Pavilion: Naturally lit, open-plan space
Boone Children’s Gallery: Free art-making activities for families

Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

Digital Witness: Revolutions in Design, Photography, and Film (Nov 24, 2024 – Jul 13, 2025)
Realms of the Dharma: Buddhist Art Across Asia (through Jul 12, 2026)
Line, Form, Qi: Calligraphic Art from the Fondation INK Collection (through Oct 19, 2025)
Imagining Black Diasporas: 21st-Century Art and Poetics
Ritual Expressions: African Adornment from the Permanent Collection

Check the events calendar for rotating exhibitions and programs.

Special Events and Public Programs

Jazz at LACMA: Free outdoor concerts on Fridays (April–October)
Latin Sounds: Live music on summer Saturdays
Docent-Led Tours: Thematic explorations included with admission
Workshops & Family Programs: Boone Children’s Gallery and other hands-on activities

Facilities and Amenities

Dining

Ray’s and Stark Bar: Outdoor seating, wood-fired pizzas, California cuisine, and a curated water menu (exp1.com)
LACMA Café: Sandwiches, salads, snacks
Coffee and Milk: Pastries, coffee, light bites

Nearby options include KazuNori, HiHo Cheeseburger, Uovo, and Genwa Korean BBQ.

Shopping

The LACMA store offers art books, prints, jewelry, and gifts inspired by the museum’s collections.

Rest Areas and Outdoor Spaces

Relax in shaded outdoor spaces or among sculptures in the B. Gerald Cantor Sculpture Garden.

Nearby Attractions

LACMA’s location on Museum Row puts you near several top Los Angeles attractions:

La Brea Tar Pits and Museum: Ice Age fossils, live excavations, and the George C. Page Museum (discoverlosangeles.com)
Petersen Automotive Museum: 300+ classic and rare cars (petersen.org)
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Filmmaking exhibits and Oscar history (academymuseum.org)
Original Farmers Market and The Grove: Diverse food options and shopping
Craft Contemporary Museum: Modern craft and design exhibitions

Other attractions within a short drive:

The Getty Center: European art, gardens, and architecture (getty.edu)
The Broad: Contemporary art in downtown LA (thebroad.org)
Walt Disney Concert Hall: Home of the LA Philharmonic (laphil.com)
Griffith Park & Observatory: Hiking, city views, and free public telescopes (laparks.org)

Visitor Tips

Arrive Early: For quieter galleries and easier parking.
Advance Tickets: Buy online to secure your timeslot and skip lines.
Photography: Non-flash photography is allowed in most galleries; restrictions may apply for special exhibits.
Bags and Strollers: Large bags must be checked; strollers are permitted.
Construction: Some areas may be closed due to renovations—check the LACMA website for updates.
Family-Friendly: Boone Children’s Gallery and outdoor installations are great for kids.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are LACMA’s visiting hours?
A: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; closed Wednesdays. Always check the official site.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: $25 for non-LA residents, $20 for LA residents, discounts for seniors/students, children 12 and under are free.

Q: Are there free admission days?
A: Yes—second Tuesday each month for all; weekdays after 3 p.m. for LA County residents; first full weekend monthly for Bank of America cardholders.

Q: Is LACMA accessible?
A: Yes; full wheelchair access, assistive listening devices, and service animal accommodations.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed in most galleries, except for some special exhibitions.

Q: Are guided tours and family programs available?
A: Yes; docent-led tours and hands-on family activities run regularly.

Conclusion

LACMA is more than a museum—it’s an immersive cultural destination that celebrates artistic diversity, innovation, and the spirit of Los Angeles. From world-class collections and iconic outdoor installations to engaging family programs and vibrant public events, LACMA offers something for every visitor.

Plan your visit by checking current hours and ticket options on the official LACMA website, and enhance your experience with guided tours and digital resources. Don’t forget to explore neighboring attractions like the La Brea Tar Pits and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures to fully immerse yourself in LA’s rich cultural corridor.

For ongoing updates, special events, and insider tips, download the Audiala app for personalized tours and follow LACMA’s official social channels. Discover why LACMA remains a global leader in the art world and an essential Los Angeles destination.