Great missing piece of history. Cold War artifacts seldom seen. Worth a visit even though they have…read morelimited hours

Wish it was possible to add 1/2 stars since I'd rate this museum 4 1/2 stars for the beauty of its…read morespace - especially the landscaped gardens-and the staff who are super friendly and helpful to visitors. On my first visit, the Culver City Book Fair was occupying the back garden space and it was a lot fun to walk through browsing through books and chatting to publishers. The museum itself was a hodge podge of Cold War artifacts (statues, Soviet books, assorted items like cameras and recording machines and mementoes) displayed along with art on the walls. Local California-artists are sometimes represented with their photographs and painting also taking up space during some of their special exhibits, as the curators try to align the theme of communism with left-wing ideas of social justice and racial discrimnation. Beyond the art on the walls, however, and far more interesting, are LOTS of special events and regular programs like (free) yoga, meditation, lectures/talks, amazing jazz music on certain evenings. The museum sends out a newsletter monthly listing all the upcoming events. All in all a fantastic (cost-free) resource for the Culver City community and for the Westside of LA in general.

OMG, I LOVE this place. And the fact that it's free?! Insane. You just need timed tickets, so…read moredefinitely plan ahead. I really liked how the galleries felt curated around different themes instead of just being a giant collection of random contemporary art. There's a ton of mixed media, sculptures, installations, and interactive pieces, so every room feels like there's something different to discover. And yes, I finally got to see the giant table and chairs! You literally feel like you've been shrunk down into a tiny person. It's such a simple concept but ridiculously fun to walk through. I also LOVED the Yoko Ono and Murakami pieces. The Murakami exhibit especially had that colorful, whimsical, almost dreamlike quality that makes you feel like you're walking around inside someone's imagination. The giant balloon flowers were adorable too. Honestly, everything here has this larger-than-life quality. Even when the pieces aren't physically huge, there's something theatrical about the colors, shapes, textures, and way the exhibits are arranged. It feels playful and dramatic without taking itself too seriously. And again, it's FREE. For a free contemporary art museum with this many memorable installations and recognizable artists, I genuinely don't understand how this exists. Such a fun experience and definitely one of my favorite stops in LA.

I visited The Broad again and saw that their permanent collection has remained mostly the same. It…read morewas a little crowded when I went on a Friday with mostly tourists browsing the paintings. The process for obtaining general admission was the same for me as I just had to reserve online. This museum is rather small despite its large exterior, so I'd recommend combining a visit here with the Museum of Contemporary Art across the street if you have time. Currently, there's an opportunity to engage in a wholesome activity outside because of Yoko Ono's "Wish Trees for Los Angeles" installation. You can't miss it because many people have tied their personal wishes on little white paper tags to the branches of the century-old olive trees outside The Broad. Most wishes were written in English, but I also saw some in Spanish, Korean, and Chinese. I'd highly recommend taking the time to read people's wishes and write one of your own. It helped me take time to focus on a few out of many things to feel grateful and hopeful for.

When I first went to the Getty I referred to it as a palace in the sky, and meant the compliment,…read morein all its absuridity. I was describing the awe of the place as best as I could so I did not leave the place undressed without its glory. As the visits continued, I enjoyed the place but not in the same way. The luster of what was once new had become typical as most things do. Repetition dulls excitement. I went skydiving once, and my attached skydiver averaged 12 drops a day. He must not see skydiving as exciting anymore, but rather just cycles of his work. But I experienced the Getty during twilight on the last day of the Off the 405 concernt series of Summer 26 and I found the experience, simply enchanting. But really, I felt like I was walking Pulk's evening garden on a random midnight summer night dream. And even though I strewn references together from the universe of Shakespeare, the feeling is true. The experiene felt surreal and like nothing I have experienced before. It was a gift from California to me. And thus I write this review because walking the Getty in the Evening is the hope of someone in the world, and I walked that dream. That is no small feat. After having a lovely dinner, I stepped outside to the Summer air that wafts around the height of the Getty. I never felt heat within wind. But here that is what I felt. The breeze was not a reward for an ardous day. It did not carry crispness. The breeze was laced with warmth that did not scold or oppressed like the afternoon heat. It felt like walking through air that had become water at a temperature that was maybe too warm but still felt good. The skin felt the breeze and I did not shiver. I aslo saw the setting of the sun leave behind traces of gold lining below a darkening blue sky. The trees had lost their green. The trees now were black shadows that had dimension to them. The moment is priceless as they say because nature converged to give me a gift of experience something new in California and I only had to pay the 25.00 parking fee. Then I stepped into Getty's famed garden. But before that I passed people picnicking in blankets looking at the city be quiet with twinkling lights. I passed a founatin with russtling water. It was shaped like an inverse leaf, at least to me. It was like seeing water drop from a modern leaf like structure. Like the one's they would have if giants had beautiful jungles to explore. And then I walked deeper into the forest and this is where I felt the proverbial magic of the Getty. The trees had become something different by non-ill moonlight. Like they were present, but hidden by the ascending night. Their face changed. They were softer in evening light. They did not look like they were going to a ball, they did not look they were going to bed, they looked like sages standing in duty, standing in stillness, while knowing they have to say no words to matter and be beauitful in ancient wisdom. Phew! The night continued, but I also want to cover the walk to the museum. I have been to the Getty a few times and I always took the tram. That is the way to get there, I thought. But on this day, I saw a sign that pointed to a 3/4 mile walkway and I took it to diversify my experiene, not knowng that a treasured summary was waiting for me above. And what is neat, is that the walk added the depth of newness to the experience. At one point I sat on a oval bench with no back rest and I sat. I saw a frame made by golden light and branches that showed the mess that is the 405. But seeing it from that place of rest and peace, I was able to appreciate the behemoth as slow moving moth. One side of the freeway was packed filled with cars. I have been a car in that freeway. and have felt its frustrating pace and zig and zags. But the other side had a trickle. Almonst no cars going in that freeway. Well almost no cars in comparison to the other side. And this moment is only one that can be lived in California. And it was golden nature exposing the advances of our technology that made it specifically California. The Getty did not need the press. I just wanted to write a note of summer love to an institution that is bigger than Brandi on ice cream.

Talk about one of California's top attractions and it's FREE. You'll essentially only have to pay…read morefor parking if you drive here. Parking fee starts at $25 per vehicle, with reduced rates of $15 after 3:00 PM and $10 after 6:00 PM it's free. After parking, you take the tram up with other people and after that, you enjoy your visit. The views are absolutely amazing. Even if it's a gloomy day, you'll find that the garden at the Getty is always blooming. My wife and I spend a couple hours here checking out all the museum paintings and antics. Aside from the interior, the views overseeing the mountains and cities are great for photos. My wife and I always take pictures at their garden near where the flowers bloom. The views here are so nice that my wife and I plan to visit again to have a picnic on the grass field where the garden is. Tons of people have picnics there due to how beautiful the spot is and the light breeze as well. There's also a cafeteria area on the lower levels at the Getty Center and it seems pretty popular, although never tried it before so certainly got to check it out in the future. Overall, a wonderful attraction and definitely a must visit even if you're a local. The scenes here are absolutely amazing and best part is that it's always clean and vibrant here. Staff is friendly as well which is always a plus. Multiple photo opportunities which makes this place the absolute best. They're known for their clean upkeeping so you know they're the best of the best.

I had such a great time at this place. Who would have known that an exotic animal rescue was in…read moreCulver and that so many animals were found in or around LA like at a 7/11 or just walking the streets lol 16$ admissions and tours at every hour on the hour Our guide was super sweet and super funny I initially found this place because I wanted to take my BF here for his bday and ended up scoping it out with a friend before hand. We had such a great time, a little juvenile for sure as there are a lot of families/lil kids on the tour, but we still had a great time Animals are interactive, they have creative names for the animals, and even a domesticated bob cat

This is a wonderfully done rescue station/education program. The center rescues exotic animals,…read moreusually ones that have been trafficked or exotic pets that people didn't do any research on and discover they can't care for them properly. (Don't get me started--oh wait, do. Please, please don't get a parrot unless you plan to hang with them 24/7 until they die at age 80.) I've taken my children numerous times and even brought them a baby tortoise we found wandering down the alley behind a pizza place. We most recently went for their Enchanted Hallow's Eve. Each room was decorated with a different theme, from Inside Out to pirates to Star Wars. It was so well done with fun trick or treat stations along the way. Take a tour, support the animals, and adopt, don't shop!

Wow wow wow - what an experience. We took our friend Keats for a birthday surprise - and had such…read morean amazing time. No matter if you are local or visiting, this is a one-of-a-kind-gem and a must-see. Host/ investor & Artist extraordinaire Gonzalo was the kindest host! Would I do a 30+ min detour just to go (mandatory to achieve 5 stars in my rating scheme). I just did - and can't wait to go again with other friends.

Opened Saturdays only 12p-3p. This is such a cool spot to visit while in Venice. Allow yourself at…read moreleast 30 mins to an hour. There are areas where you can sit and just enjoy the breeze and the art so spending more time wouldn't be an issue. It's very well-maintained. Reservations are required online, but I don't think it would be a huge issue if you just showed up and paid up the door. I guess that would depend on how busy it is that particular day. But definitely make reservations in advance if you can, but if you just happen to be in the area and want to stop by, it wouldn't hurt to just pull up. $20 adults, $15 seniors, free ages 12 under 90+ Read and learn about the artists behind the work, they have quite an interesting story. This is their home, they live and create here. Respect the art and the neighborhood.

I had did some research before I stepped into this creative expression of fun collections. This…read moremuseum is definitely an art experience worth visiting with iconic figures and street art that paints Mr. Brainwash's (Thierry Guetta) main mantra for the museum, "Life Is Beautiful" which is dedicated to honoring imagination, joy, creativity and inspiration. It's his own work that is displayed but he also references artists work such as the famous Banksy and other artists. A friend told me that the documentary, Exit through the Gift Shop, is connected to this museum. I have yet to watch but will do so to gain more understanding. Apparently, it was free museum day because there were hosts at the door greeting and letting visitors in. That was nice. It wasn't too busy but a good crowd to where I had to wait for my turn to take photos. It's three levels including the rooftop where more artwork is held and a view overlooking Beverly Hills. They also have a gift shop with unique items for purchase. I bought a cutesy pen with an engraved quote on it. To add, I was instantly moved by the creativity and effort they put into this museum. It brought a lot of inspiration. The art work gave me ideas of how I would want a part of my home to look like. It was a fun visit and would recommend for anyone wanting to dig into their imagination and enjoys art. I am also a sucker for anything that brings out the inner child in me and this place fed it well. Thank you, Mr. Brainwash and staff. Ps. The museum might be closed now. Unsure if it's temporary or permanently but still wanted to share my experience. I visited it in January of this year.

My friends and I had fun here. It's free and you get two hours free parking across the street…read morewhere Crate and Barrel is... Great place to visit. There are 3 floors and it's kind of like a maze inside. Unfortunately, this museum is closing January 6, 2026. Visit if you can! There is a lot to see and take pictures of... The art is like an Impressionist and pop culture fusion!

Consistently one of the most impressive museums in the city, with engaging exhibitions coming…read moreseemingly every 3 months. This one's a favorite of mine, so it's tough not to be biased. My most recent visit was in early June, and I loved the several eternities in a day exhibit. How tactile and fascinating! This place has a killer permanent exhibition and even the exhibitions I haven't been as in love with have something interesting to say, so I will keep coming back. The service is always helpful, and there are some nice spots to sit and enjoy the vibe (including the fun top-shaped chairs). I miss the ping pong tables they used to have...but no complaints found here! Go visit asap.

Honestly, I wasn't sure what to expect when I walked into the Hammer Museum, but I ended up…read moreabsolutely loving it. The museum is beautiful, peaceful, and incredibly well organized. I also loved that there are a few dining options inside, making it easy to spend a couple of hours exploring without feeling rushed. One of the best things about the Hammer Museum is that admission is free, and they offer generous hours, which makes it a great activity whether you're a local or just visiting Los Angeles. The exhibitions were stunning. I loved the mix of contemporary and modern art, along with works from iconic artists such as Van Gogh and Monet. Every gallery felt thoughtfully curated, and there was always something interesting to discover around the next corner. And the museum store? Absolutely beautiful. I honestly wanted to buy everything. From art books to unique gifts and home items, it's worth visiting on its own. If you're in Los Angeles and looking for a relaxing and inspiring way to spend an afternoon, I highly recommend the Hammer Museum. I'll definitely be back! Note: While the museum has featured works by artists such as Van Gogh and Monet in certain exhibitions or collections, the exhibits rotate, so what's on display may vary during your visit.

Came in for their recent block party with the wife and had a blast! They were celebrating the…read moreopening of their new expanded campus, and it is a seriously cool (and huge) brutalist building that is so filled with art and carefully designed that you feel like you could shuffle around corner after corner seeing new things for eternity - and I mean that in a good way. I found myself so taken with the new building that I ran out of time to see the original building's new exhibit...I guess I'll have to come back ;) With this new addition, I think this place might just have become my single favorite art museum in LA. This museum is impressive, fascinating, and super well curated. I also love how they put on a great event here to show off the new digs and let us LA people in to see it for free! By the way, we loved that strawberry paleta too! A great (and tasty) relief for that hot day. Much appreciated, and can't wait to come see what they do for their next exhibit!

In the (many) years since the last time I was in LA, my list of things to see and do down here has…read moreonly gotten longer and longer. Yet, during that time, checking out LACMA has always managed to stay right near the top, just after eating in KTown. What can I say? I guess I'm just a connoisseur of food and culture...heavy emphasis on the former, far less on the latter. After all, as much as I appreciate museums and art, a big reason for wanting to come here was to also get our prerequisite IG photos of the Urban Lights display like everyone else! Since my gf's friend bought our tickets online for us, I can't really speak to the price or the process. However, what I can say is that buying tickets in advance is highly recommended so that you can lock in your preferred entry time slot, rather than taking a chance on whatever walk up slots are left when you get here. Similarly, their parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, but there are alternatives nearby. The surrounding streets offer spaces, but most of them seem to have time limits/meters. Otherwise, there are several other parking lots nearby, including a large one a half block away at the Petersen Automotive Museum that we parked at. Now, in all, LACMA is made up of four separate buildings/pavilions filled with exhibits and pieces from a variety of movements, periods, and artists from around the world, whether it be American, European, Latin, Egyptian, Asian, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Abstract, Surrealist, Pop Art, Picasso, Monet, Diego Rivera, Andy Warhol, and so much more. The artwork here also extends beyond just the physical, as there was even a live trio performing with a violin player, a singer, and a bicycle riding performer. I don't know if it's just me, but that felt pretty rare to see. Given how art is largely subjective, everyone will feel differently about LACMA's specific exhibits and pieces, but I think it's objectively safe to say that their overall collection of artwork is rather impressive. With so many different distinct styles curated together, there's so much to see and potentially something that speaks to everyone. What's more, the physical museum itself is great - a little congested in certain areas as guests milled about, but I definitely like how modern it felt and how it stretches over Wilshire (kind of cool to stand there and watch all of the cars passing below). Despite how big and spacious this place is, though, there were times inside the main building/gallery where it felt really hot and stuffy, so a bit more A/C would've been nice. Even though we spent a good chunk of the day wandering through so many of their halls and exhibits, I'd be lying if I said we got to see (and appreciate) everything that LACMA has to offer. My favorites were the pieces by Monet and Picasso, as well as the Pop Art wing with Warhol's pieces. However, I'm still kicking myself for neglecting the outside area and the very thing we came here for - the Urban Light display! Pretty horrendous on my part (I just wanted to see in the car with the A/C on blast), but at least it's accessible 24/7 to the public without needing to buy a ticket, so we can always correct that mistake the next time we're in LA. Which, hopefully, won't take nearly as long again.