Los Angeles isn’t just about beaches, palm trees, and movie stars. It’s also home to some of the most exciting museums in the country. If you love art, movies, music, or dinosaurs, there’s something here for you. That’s why exploring museums is one of the best ways to really understand the city.
This guide covers the best Los Angeles museums that are fun, interesting, and worth your time. Some are world-famous, while others surprise visitors with how hands-on and entertaining they are. If you’re planning a trip or just looking for something new to do, this list will help you choose the right spots.
Let’s jump into the best museums in LA you should add to your plans!
Best Los Angeles Museums and Galleries 🖼️
1. Madame Tussauds Hollywood
Posing with Marilyn Monroe at Madame Tussauds Hollywood | Photo Credit: Klook
When it comes to fun and interactive museum stops, Madame Tussauds Hollywood stands out in the city! Instead of quiet galleries, you’ll find lifelike wax figures of celebrities from movies, music, and sports. You can even take photos, pose, and interact with the displays.
You can see famous actors, singers, and superheroes all in one place. It’s especially popular with families, couples, and first-time visitors to Hollywood. If you’re short on time, this is a quick stop that still feels memorable.
Among the best Los Angeles museums, this one stands out for being playful and stress-free.
🎭Perfect if: you want something light and entertaining
Opening Hours: 10am to 8pm daily
Address: 6933 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
2. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
T. rex–Triceratops duel at the Natural History Museum | Photo Credit: Klook
If you love dinosaurs or science, this museum is a must-visit! The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is one of the most educational yet enjoyable Los Angeles museums. The Dinosaur Hall is the main highlight, with huge skeletons that impress both kids and adults.
Beyond dinosaurs, the museum also shares stories about California’s land, animals, and people. The exhibits are clear and easy to understand, which makes learning fun instead of overwhelming. You can easily spend a few hours here without getting bored.
It’s often considered one of the best museums in Los Angeles CA for families.
🏛️Perfect if: you want something informative but still exciting
Opening Hours: 9:30am to 5pm daily
Address: 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
3. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Oscars Experience at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures | Photo Credit: Klook
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a dream stop for movie fans. It focuses on how films are made, from early Hollywood to modern blockbusters. You’ll see real costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes details from famous movies.
One of the most popular parts is the Oscars Experience, where you can feel what it’s like to stand on an awards stage. The museum also has great views of the city from the top, which makes the visit even better.
🎞️Perfect if: you enjoy storytelling and film history
Opening Hours: Mon-Wed 10am - 6pm, closed on Tuesdays
Address: 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
4. Dolby Theatre
Dolby Theatre | Photo Credit: Klook
The Dolby Theatre isn’t a typical museum, but it still deserves a spot on this list. This is where the Academy Awards happen every year, making it one of the most famous theaters in the world. You can even join guided tours that take you inside and explain how major events are produced.
You’ll learn fun Hollywood facts and see areas usually only shown on TV. The tours are short, which makes this an easy stop while exploring Hollywood Boulevard. For film lovers, it’s one of the most exciting and best museums in LA!
📽️Perfect if: you want to connect to movie history without spending hours indoors
Opening Hours: Tues-Thurs 1pm to 4pm, Fri-Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun 10am - 4pm
Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
5. Getty Center
Getty Center | Photo Credit: Klook
The Getty Center experience is one of the most relaxing and beautiful in the city. It’s located on a hill and gives you amazing views of Los Angeles. Inside, you’ll find European paintings, photography, and decorative art.
Outside, the gardens are just as impressive as the artwork. Many visitors come just to walk around and enjoy the scenery. The best part is that museum entry is free, which makes it one of the most popular Los Angeles museums, and if you want to learn more, you can also book a Getty Center guided tour to explore it in depth!
🏞️Perfect if: you want to explore art, gardens, and views in one stop
Opening Hours: Tues–Fri, Sun 10am - 6:30pm, Sat 10am - 9pm
Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA
6. The Broad
The Broad Museum | Photo Credit: Ran Hua on Pexels
If you’re curious about modern and contemporary art, The Broad is a great place to start. Known for bold and colorful pieces, The Broad Los Angeles attracts visitors from all over the world. The exhibits usually feature famous artists and large-scale installations.
Many people visit the Instagram-famous rooms, but there’s much more to see. The museum is easy to walk through and doesn’t feel intimidating, even if you’re new to art. It’s also located downtown, close to other attractions like Santa Monica Pier and Venice Boardwalk.
This is one of the best museums in Los Angeles CA for a short but memorable visit.
📸Perfect if: you love modern art and Instagram-worthy exhibits
Opening Hours: Tues, Wed, Fri 11am - 5pm, Thurs 11am - 5pm, Sat-Sun 10am - 6pm
Address: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA
7. Grammy Museum
Grammy Museum | Photo Credit: Klook
The Grammy Museum is perfect for music fans of all ages. It tells the stories of famous artists and shows how music has changed over time. In the Grammy Museum, you’ll find interactive exhibits where you can listen, watch, and even try making music!
The museum feels lively and hands-on, which keeps things interesting. It’s located at L.A. Live, so it’s easy to combine with a concert or sports event. This stop adds energy and variety to your list of best Los Angeles museums.
📀Perfect if: you love music and hands-on exhibits
Opening Hours: Sun-Fri 11am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 6pm, closed on Tuesdays
Address: 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles Museums FAQs
What is the most visited museum in LA?
The Getty Center is often the most visited museum in Los Angeles. Its free entry, beautiful views, and famous art collections attract millions of visitors every year. It’s popular with both tourists and locals.
What are the most unique museums in LA?
Madame Tussauds Hollywood and the Academy Museum are two of the most unique. One lets you pose with celebrities, while the other shows how movies are made. Both feel more interactive than traditional museums.
Which museum is best for LA history?
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is the best place to learn about the city’s history. It covers everything from ancient times to modern California life. The exhibits are clear and family-friendly.
Are LA museums free after 3pm?
Some museums offer free hours on certain days, but it depends on the location. The Getty Center and The Broad are always free, though parking or reservations may have fees. It’s best to check before you go.
What is the best time to visit museums in LA?
Weekday mornings are usually the least crowded. Visiting early helps you enjoy exhibits without long lines. Planning ahead also makes the experience smoother.
Make Museums Part of Your LA Trip
Griffith Observatory | Photo Credit: Cristiane Doffini on Pexels
Los Angeles has so much more to offer than people expect, and its museums are proof. From movie history to fine art and science, the best Los Angeles museums add depth and fun to any trip.
If you visit one or all seven, you’ll walk away with a better feel for the city. Take your time, explore what interests you most, and enjoy discovering a different side of LA!
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Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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