Planning a day out in Los Angeles should feel easy and enjoyable. The city has plenty of museums that bring local culture to life through exciting exhibits, creative displays, and hands-on experiences.
They are great spots to explore before heading outside to one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles for a laid-back setup.
Walk through colorful galleries or check out fascinating artifacts. Each stop gives you something different to see and talk about. When you are done inside, head to a nearby lawn, rooftop, or garden space to keep the day going with a relaxed outdoor setup.
These are the best museums in LA that are worth a visit when paired with a good view, fresh air, and a picnic that feels like a little upgrade to your usual plans.
1. The Broad
📍 Address: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission; advanced reservations recommended.
⏰ Working hours: Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Thursday and Friday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The Broad stands out as a top pick in LA for anyone looking to combine art with a laid-back outing, and it fits seamlessly into thoughtful date ideas in Los Angeles when paired with a scenic picnic afterward.
With over 2,000 works in its collection, including pieces by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Cindy Sherman, it sets the stage for a colorful and energizing start.
The architecture adds to the appeal. Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, the building has a bold, modern look that often draws visitors outside for a few quick photos before they move on.
Right across the street, Grand Park smooths the day’s transition. Open lawns, skyline views, and plenty of shaded spots make it a practical choice for a luxury picnic. After a morning inside the museum, it feels natural to unpack a stylish setup and take your time under the sun.
2. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
📍 Address: 250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
🎫 Admission ticket: $15 for adults; free admission every Thursday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
⏰ Working hours: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Thursday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday & Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
MOCA sits in the center of downtown Los Angeles and brings fresh energy through bold exhibitions and hands-on programming. Its collection holds over 7,000 works, covering everything from post-war pieces to today’s contemporary art.
Exhibits often explore current social topics, creating a space that invites reflection and sparks conversation. Once you wrap up your visit inside, the experience continues just outside.
The adjacent plaza and nearby green pockets, including Grand Park, give you easy options for settling into a luxury picnic setup in the park that feels like a natural extension of your day.
3. Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust
📍 Address: 100 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission.
⏰ Working hours: Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Friday, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM; and Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Saturdays.
The Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust holds deep historical significance. Founded in 1961 by Holocaust survivors, it remains the oldest Holocaust museum in the United States.
Located in Pan Pacific Park, the museum is dedicated to preserving memory while educating future generations about the Holocaust. Exhibits feature personal stories, original artifacts, and multimedia elements that bring history into focus in a powerful and accessible way.
After your visit, the surrounding park provides a quiet space to pause, reflect, or settle in for a thoughtful outdoor break.
4. The Grammy Museum
📍 Address: 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015
🎫 Admission ticket: $15 for adults; discounts for seniors, students, and youth.
⏰ Working hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The Grammy Museum gives visitors a hands-on look at the world of American music. Across four floors, the space features everything from stage-worn costumes and legendary instruments to interactive recording booths that let you step into the artist’s role for a moment.
The exhibits cover a wide range of genres, including rock, jazz, country, classical, Latin, and R&B. Each section brings music history to life through engaging displays and multimedia experiences that keep things lively and easy to follow.
Its central downtown location also makes it easy to turn a museum visit into a full afternoon. After exploring the exhibits, nearby open-air spaces give you room to relax, unpack a picnic, and keep the good vibes going.
5. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
📍 Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
🎫 Admission ticket: General admission is $25 for adults; free entry is available to LA County residents after 3:00 PM on weekdays.
⏰ Working hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Friday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and weekends from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
LACMA stands as the largest art museum in Los Angeles and across the western United States, with more than 142,000 pieces spanning centuries of creativity. Its collection covers global cultures and artistic traditions, giving visitors the chance to explore everything from ancient artifacts to modern icons.
Exhibitions often feature names like Picasso and Pollock, alongside rotating public programs and educational events that keep the experience engaging throughout the year. With so much variety, it is easy to spend a few hours moving through time and place without feeling rushed.
Afterward, the surrounding grounds provide a natural break. The open lawns and shaded walkways around the museum make it a convenient location to set up a stylish picnic and enjoy the rest of the day outdoors.
6. Petersen Automotive Museum
📍 Address: 6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
🎫 Admission ticket: $16 for adults; discounts for seniors, students, and children.
⏰ Working hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The Petersen Automotive Museum stands out immediately thanks to its bold exterior, wrapped in a stainless steel ribbon that gives the building a strong modern presence.
Inside, it is a dream spot for car lovers, featuring over 300 vehicles from all corners of the world.
The exhibits take you through the evolution of transportation, highlighting everything from early classics to the latest in automotive design and technology.
With interactive displays, educational features, and rotating events, the experience stays fresh and hands-on.
After taking in the collection, the museum’s location along Wilshire Boulevard places you close to nearby green spaces where you can slow things down. It is an easy transition into a laid-back picnic setup that rounds out the day with style and comfort.
7. The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum (end)
📍 Address: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
🎫 Admission ticket: $15 for adults; discounts available for seniors, students, and children.
⏰ Working hours: Daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is one of the most iconic fossil sites in the world and a standout museum in Los Angeles.
It is known for preserving a massive collection of prehistoric animals trapped in tar, giving scientists and visitors a rare window into the past.
Located in the center of the city, the museum showcases Ice Age fossils, such as saber-toothed cats, woolly mammoths, and dire wolves.
These discoveries come straight from the active excavation sites outside, where the tar has been bubbling up for thousands of years.
The surrounding parkland adds another layer to the visit. After exploring the exhibits and watching paleontologists at work, the open green space nearby makes it easy to spread out and enjoy a calm, picnic-style break in a setting unlike anywhere else in LA.
8. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
📍 Address: 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007
🎫 Admission ticket: $15 for adults; discounts for seniors, students, and children.
⏰ Working hours: Daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County brings science and storytelling together with over 35 million specimens that span 4.5 billion years.
It is also a hub for wildlife conservation and public education, making it a great stop for anyone curious about the planet’s past and present.
Inside, you will find a wide variety of exhibits, including gems, minerals, a butterfly pavilion, and a nature garden. One of the biggest draws is the dinosaur hall, which showcases a 63-foot-long Triceratops and a towering 68-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex.
Once you step outside, the museum’s gardens and surrounding green spaces give you the perfect chance to slow down. It is an ideal spot to unpack a picnic and relax after a day filled with natural wonders and larger-than-life creatures.
9. The Museum of Tolerance
📍 Address: 9786 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035
🎫 Admission ticket: $15.50 for adults; discounts available for seniors, students, and children.
⏰ Working hours: Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Saturdays.
The Museum of Tolerance takes a direct approach to some of the most difficult issues of our time. Through immersive exhibits and hands-on programs, it addresses racism, prejudice, and the Holocaust in ways that encourage awareness and dialogue.
Visitors move through interactive displays that challenge assumptions and highlight the consequences of intolerance. The experience is designed to create space for reflection and deeper understanding, making it a powerful stop for those looking to connect history with the present.
After spending time inside, the quiet spaces near the museum offer a practical option to pause and reflect. It is a thoughtful way to end a visit that stays with you long after the day is done.
10. The Getty Center
📍 Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission; parking is $20.
⏰ Working hours: Tuesday to Friday, Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
The Getty Center sits high in the Santa Monica Mountains and delivers an experience that goes far beyond the art inside. With its striking architecture by Richard Meier, sweeping views, and world-class galleries, the visit begins the moment you step onto the tram.
Inside, you will find a rich mix of European paintings, decorative arts, drawings, and early photography. The Central Garden outside is just as memorable, with walkways that wind through blooming plants, water features, and perfectly placed shade.
After walking through the exhibits, the garden’s open lawns and seating areas give you space to unwind. It is an ideal setup for a stylish picnic in the sun, and also a perfect moment to capture the moment if you’re planning a day filled with photos or special memories like these engagement photo ideas.
11. The Hammer Museum
📍 Address: 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission.
⏰ Working hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
The Hammer Museum blends classic and contemporary in one of LA’s most creative spaces. Affiliated with UCLA, it presents a constantly changing lineup of exhibitions, public programs, and performances that keep the energy flowing year-round.
Inside, you can spot works by Monet and van Gogh alongside bold, emerging artists. The museum stays active with free events, artist talks, and workshops that make it feel like a local favorite as much as a cultural destination.
Its open-air courtyard is perfect for relaxing after a visit, especially if you are looking for a casual picnic spot in the heart of Westwood. Shaded tables and a calm setting make it easy to shift from exploring art to enjoying a quiet break outdoors.
12. The Skirball Cultural Center
📍 Address: 2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049
🎫 Admission ticket: $12 for adults; discounts available for seniors, students, and children.
⏰ Working hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
The Skirball Cultural Center welcomes visitors into a space shaped by history, tradition, and meaningful storytelling. Exhibits focus on Jewish American life and include an interactive recreation of a traditional shtetl, along with rotating displays that explore culture through modern perspectives.
The building and gardens enhance the experience, offering a setting that feels open and intentional. Walkways, natural light, and thoughtful design guide you through the galleries at a comfortable pace.
Once outside, the landscaped grounds create a calm atmosphere. The open areas work well for a picnic, whether you plan to sit for a while or enjoy a quick break surrounded by nature and quiet.
13. Griffith Observatory
📍 Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission; nominal fee for planetarium shows.
⏰ Working hours: Tuesday through Friday, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and weekends, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Griffith Observatory connects visitors with space, science, and the city below. Inside, you can explore exhibits on astronomy, planetary science, and physics.
The Samuel Oschin Planetarium features immersive shows, while the Zeiss telescope invites guests to view the night sky through world-class optics.
Built along the slope of Mount Hollywood, the observatory offers clear views of downtown Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, and nearby mountain ranges. After exploring indoors, the grassy areas outside provide a quiet place to rest and reset.
The setting works well for a casual picnic, especially in the late afternoon. The skyline glows as the sun dips, and the city lights slowly take over the horizon.
14. Autry Museum of the American West
The museum explores the history and cultures of the American West through its extensive collection of Native American art, artifacts, and cultural materials.
📍 Address: 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027
🎫 Admission ticket: $14 for adults; discounts for seniors, students, and children.
⏰ Working hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
Set in Griffith Park, the Autry Museum brings the story of the American West to life. Inside, you will find Native American art, cultural materials, and historical collections that reflect the diversity of the region’s past.
The exhibits include everything from Western landscape paintings to vintage firearms and hands-on displays. Interactive galleries and rotating programs keep things interesting for both first-time visitors and returning guests.
The museum’s park surroundings make it easy to transition into a slower pace. The nearby green spaces are well-suited for a relaxed picnic after a day spent indoors.
15. The Norton Simon Museum
📍 Address: 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
🎫 Admission ticket: $15 for adults; free for students with ID and children under 18.
⏰ Working hours: Wednesday to Monday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays.
The Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena features a respected collection of fine art spanning more than two thousand years.
Inside, you will find European paintings from the Renaissance through the 20th century, alongside significant works from South and Southeast Asia.
Galleries include pieces by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Picasso, all displayed in a calm and thoughtfully designed space. The sculpture garden and pond just outside create a peaceful contrast to the galleries.
After walking through the collection, I noticed that the outdoor area is a good spot to unwind. The shaded paths and quiet corners give you space to enjoy a picnic while staying close to the museum’s artistic atmosphere.
16. The Huntington Library, Art Museum & Botanical Gardens
📍 Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108
🎫 Admission ticket: $25 for adults on weekdays and $29 on weekends; discounts available for seniors, students, and children.
⏰ Working hours: Wednesday to Monday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays.
The Huntington spans 130 acres of curated gardens, historic architecture, and museum galleries. Inside, you will find European and American art collections from the 15th to the early 20th centuries. The library holds rare manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible and early editions of Shakespeare.
Outdoors, the themed gardens create a peaceful setting for walking and relaxing. Each section brings its own character, from the Japanese Garden to the desert trails lined with cacti.
With so many paths and shaded lawns, it is easy to pause for a quiet picnic between stops. The space invites visitors to take their time and enjoy the scenery. Thus, it stands out among anniversary date ideas in LA for couples seeking something quiet and elegant.
17. The Wende Museum
📍 Address: 10808 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA 90230
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission.
⏰ Working hours: Friday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The Wende Museum preserves and presents artifacts, art, and personal stories from the Cold War period, with a focus on life behind the Iron Curtain. The collection includes more than 100,000 items that reflect the era’s political and cultural atmosphere.
Exhibits often link historical material to present-day topics, creating a space that encourages thoughtful conversations. Public programs, installations, and rotating displays keep each visit fresh and purposeful.
Outside, the museum grounds offer a small but welcoming space for taking a break. It is a calm spot to sit, reflect, or enjoy a light picnic before moving on with your day.
18. Flight Path Museum and Learning Center
📍 Address: 6661 W Imperial Hwy, Los Angeles, CA 90045
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission.
⏰ Working hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Positioned near LAX, the Flight Path Museum highlights Southern California’s role in aviation history. Inside, you will find displays of model aircraft, airline uniforms, and airline memorabilia, along with full-sized planes and guided educational tours.
The exhibits trace the progress of commercial air travel and airport development in Los Angeles. Visitors can get a closer look at how flight has shaped the region over the decades.
Though located in a busier part of the city, the museum has a few quiet corners outdoors. It is a short stop, but one that can work well with a quick picnic nearby before heading into or out of the airport area.
19. California Science Center
📍 Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037
🎫 Admission ticket: Free admission; fees for IMAX and special exhibits.
⏰ Working hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The California Science Center brings scientific concepts into real-world focus with hands-on exhibits for all ages. Permanent displays include life sciences, space exploration, and innovations in human technology.
A highlight is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, shown in a dedicated gallery that captures its full scale and story.
The center also features an IMAX theater that plays science-focused films in large format, drawing families and school groups throughout the week.
Exposition Park surrounds the museum with wide lawns and clean open spaces. After walking through the exhibits, the area nearby provides plenty of room to sit, relax, and enjoy a simple outdoor meal in between activities.
20. Battleship USS Iowa Museum
📍 Address: 250 S Harbor Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90731
🎫 Admission ticket: $24.95 for adults; discounts for seniors, students, and children
⏰ Working hours: Daily from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Docked at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro, the Battleship USS Iowa Museum offers a rare opportunity to explore a historic naval vessel up close. Known as the “Battleship of Presidents,” the USS Iowa served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War.
Visitors can walk the decks, see the massive gun turrets, and explore crew quarters while learning about life aboard a warship. The museum also features interactive exhibits and naval history displays that highlight leadership, innovation, and service.
After touring the ship, the nearby waterfront area offers open views and benches along the harbor. It is a scenic spot to relax and enjoy a waterside picnic with ships and cranes in the background, blending industrial energy with a sense of maritime history.
21. Hollywood Bowl Museum
📍 Address: 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
🎫 Free admission
⏰ Working hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM; Closed on Mondays
Tucked beneath the famous Hollywood Bowl amphitheater, the Hollywood Bowl Museum celebrates one of LA’s most iconic music venues. Exhibits showcase the Bowl’s history through photos, concert footage, and memorabilia from decades of performances.
The museum covers a wide range of music history, including classical, jazz, pop, and film scores. Visitors can learn about the venue’s evolution and the legendary artists who have performed there.
Its location inside Hollywood Bowl Park makes it easy to extend your visit outdoors. The park grounds provide shaded areas and grassy spots that are ideal for a laid-back picnic, especially if you are heading to an evening performance later that day.
End Your Museum Day the LA Way
If you are exploring as a visitor or reconnecting as a local, these destinations give you a reason to slow down and see LA with fresh eyes. Each museum adds meaning to your day without rushing the experience.
If you’re continuing your afternoon beyond downtown, you might enjoy adding a few things to do in Santa Monica to round out your plans.
Share your favorite museum visits and consider setting up a luxury pop-up picnic nearby with Picnic Makers, and immerse yourself in LA’s endless cultural opportunities!
FAQs
What are the best times to visit museums in Los Angeles?
To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays, especially at opening or late afternoon hours. Many of the best museums in Los Angeles offer free admission on certain days or times, which can attract larger crowds. Check the schedule in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
Are any special discounts or passes available for multiple museum visits?
The Los Angeles CityPASS and the Go Los Angeles Card offer discounted rates for entry to many museums, including some listed in the article. Additionally, many museums offer free admission days or pay-what-you-wish hours.
What are unique museum experiences for families with children?
The California Science Center and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County are fun museums in LA and fantastic for families. They offer interactive exhibits and educational activities that engage children.
How accessible are Los Angeles museums for visitors with disabilities?
The best museums in LA are generally well-equipped to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Facilities typically include wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, and sometimes free wheelchair rentals. Additionally, many museums offer special services such as tactile tours, sign language interpreters, and audio guides.
What are some lesser-known but culturally significant museums in Los Angeles worth visiting?
Beyond the well-known museums, Los Angeles has several hidden gems that offer unique cultural insights. The Wende Museum delves into Cold War history, focusing on Eastern European and Soviet artifacts.
