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    Wende Museum

    4.3 (74 reviews)
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    Bauhaus legacy lecture
    Lauretta N.

    I attended a lecture on the Bauhaus legacy today in the AFrame museum in the Gloria Kaufman center on the museum grounds. Speaker was interesting and this is one of the many free programs offered from the museum. Refreshments were offered afterwards (coffee and a vegetable/cheese appetizer) which was a surprise and very nice. I've been to the museum a few times (a David Bowie exhibit on his time in Berlin) and they have fascinating displays on the Cold War. There's always something new. The place itself is immaculate including the beautiful gardens and grounds at the back. Parking is plentiful and free. Admission is also free. A wonderful place.... go and see for yourself.

    Aaron O.

    This place is awesome. From the literal bomb shelter brutalist structure of the building itself to the fascinating exhibits, this is one of my favorite museums in LA! I'm a big Cold War history guy and this place has tons of it. We've been a few times now, and my favorite two exhibits were the global flags exhibit and the recording/espionage one, but our most recent visit had a neat one too - a horse and house built entirely from sugar. This place is everything a Cold War enthusiast could love and then some. We also love the grounds and the rooftop area...so pretty and meticulously maintained. They throw events here regularly too, which is great for the area and families. I love any excuse I can find to come back. See ya next time Wende!

    Monica R.

    It is educational! I learned about the Cold War at school in Brazil. You can check the information about music, customs, habits, advertising the Countries not capitalist lived and developed. It is important to learn the past and take lessons. It is free! Very well organized.

    Interior -- Garden View through Hyperreality
    Norbert K.

    I have visited a number of Cold War museums around the world, and I must say The Wende Museum of the Cold War is among the best! It's bright, airy, and curated very well. Exhibitions in the main gallery rotate every six months. Today we saw "Counter/Survelliance: Control, Privacy, Agency" which presents technologies and their links with scientific and pseudo-scientific research, artistic methods, and popular culture. There are exhibits on facial recognition, message encoding, passport control, surveillance, and more from Europe, United States, and Southeast Asia. A large portion of the artifacts displayed came from the former U.S.S.R. and East Germany. The glass wall and doors at the rear of the museum held a unique display of Hyperreality that you look through to view the museum garden. There are also a library and permanent displays of artifacts related to the nuclear arms race, space race, life behind the Iron Curtain, and more. The Wende has free admission Friday-Sunday.

    Judy T.

    I love this little museum. If interested in history, media, propaganda it's seriously worth a visit. I've been several times over the years and I appreciate the thoughtful curation. Great collection of pieces in their permanent collection and they always have fascinating special exhibits. The grounds are beautiful as well. Admission always free and plenty of easy (and free) parking in the lot right out front.

    Lisa T.

    This new community center is dedicated to the arts, education, outreach, and networking. All programs and services are offered free of charge. I attended a free yoga class and it was lovely. There's plenty of parking in the lot. The museum is next door. The outdoor space is serene and tranquil. This is a lovely addition to the community.

    The Exterior
    Kathryn L.

    Been on The Wende email list for awhile, but I had never visited it. The latest email had an awesome, complimentary, Summer Camp Watercolor event on a Sunday morning, so I signed up. There was plenty of free parking in front of the museum when I arrived. Then, I followed the sign to a beautiful, serene, hidden garden where this lovely class was happening. Our teacher, Anne Austin Pearce, was welcoming and encouraging. She gave us helpful tips about how to use the paint, the water and the brushes. Then, she gave us a prompt to start. I'm creative, but not artistic. I just wanted to play with the glorious colors while enjoying the company of other people (mostly women) in a relaxing environment. It was fun to see what everyone else chose to do, too. What a fantastic experience! I can't wait to Wende my way back to camp!

    Apollo 15 Lunar Sample
    David C.

    While I'm not a British spy with a license to ask for my martinis strictly shaken and not stirred, being apart of this museums tour had me feeling like I might as well be wearing a tux everywhere I go. My tour guide who's name I'll keep anonymous because of my newfound paranoia, was awesome!. But I'll call her 'Jean' for the sake of proper narrative. Not only was she completely knowledgeable with all my random questions along the way, there was a sense of genuine appreciation for all that was on display and with sharing it's history. Most but not everything on display were actual devices, gadgets, and methods used during the Cold War espionage era. And while I found it all to be fascinating, and even relevant to the world today, my favorite item in the museum hands down was 'Lunar Sample #15418'. YES, an actual rock from the moon itself. I mean, how often does one get to stand arms length away from the moon? Credit to everone who works at this museum. They were all great. From the moment I walked in to when I left. Everyone was very welcoming and just pleasant. Really enjoyed walking through the gift area as well. Just know its digital payment only.

    Nathan N.

    I am so glad I learned about a free lecture here somehow. A Vietnamese American art historian, Thuy N.D. Tran, was giving a talk on South Vietnam's Artistic Legacy here. It was an honor and so enriching learning about an art tradition that was interrupted both by war and then the dissolution of a government. As an aspiring artist of South Vietnamese descent, it felt like my own history was being presented to me. I had been trying to self-study these artists, the history of the arts in Vietnam and myself be a continuation of that story. I do not claim to be affiliated in any way with these masters, but I am undoubtedly influenced by their work. After the talk ended, because we are in a museum, I walked around to look at the current exhibitions. Directly adjacent to us were works by Vietnamese artists or about Vietnamese themes, namely the war and its subsequent refugees. Growing up, I saw very little about my homeland in museums or textbooks. I am thankful to have been able to learn more about the factors that have shaped me and my lived experiences. Parking is free, and admission is free. This is a really neat cultural center to check out!

    Maruko X.

    The Wende is not just an art museum, which presents archive of the Cold War and preserves history through exhibitions, and but also a cultural center in the area, involving in education and community engagement. The museum only opens Friday through Sunday to public, and they host special events periodically, the staff said they usually have limited spots and early registration is recommended, and I liked the event I attended and the museum itself is worth revisiting as well.

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    The The Wende Museum is a must-visit. It's a quaint space filled with unique history--one of those places that quietly leaves an impression.

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    I love visiting the Wende Museum and Glorya Kaufman Community Center for mindful meditation and yoga classes.

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    Ask the Community - Wende Museum

    Review Highlights - Wende Museum

    The museum has neat period stuff like Cold War games and old phones, maps, art, and all sorts of ephemera.

    Mentioned in 24 reviews

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    The Museum of Jurassic Technology - Upstairs gazebo where tea is served

    The Museum of Jurassic Technology

    4.0(755 reviews)
    1.1 miPalms

    Very unique and entertaining exhibits. I enjoyed the combination of nontraditional exhibit topics…read moreand truly eclectic array of specimens, though I found some of the exhibits to be a bit misleading, such as the collection of diatoms. My favorite exhibits were the Decaying Dice, Tell The Bees, and Cat's Cradle. Partner really enjoyed the architecture-focused set of exhibits. A bit crowded in the exhibits near the entrance, but the crowd thins out the further you walk into the museum. If the jumble of information I presented in this review confuses you, then I would recommend that you visit the museum. It's immersive in the sense that I feel as though I traveled to many different worlds just by walking from room to room in a large house. I would certainly visit again if I was in the area.

    The Museum of Jurassic Technology is an interesting way to spend an hour in Culver City! I wish I…read morecould show you but respect their wishes of no photos/videos inside. It's one of those weird niche museums you just gotta walk through and experience. It's a little bit of history, a little bit of histrionics, some gorgeous displays to walk thru, interesting bits to read, and an interesting collection for sure. My favorite part was their little garden with a few special birds. Such a peaceful and cute area, with tea offered at special times! What a nice touch. It's only open Thursday to Sunday with a $15 entrance fee and reserving a time in advance is best, so plan accordingly. For me, it was an interesting place to pop into once but I don't see myself coming back again~ nor would I bring out of town guests. I like quirky and weird - i AM quirky and weird - but just felt confused when I left.

    Photos
    The Museum of Jurassic Technology - Upstairs gazebo where tea is served

    Upstairs gazebo where tea is served

    The Museum of Jurassic Technology - Dont miss the aviary on the roof !

    Dont miss the aviary on the roof !

    The Museum of Jurassic Technology - Inside entrance

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    Inside entrance

    The Getty Center - Family fun at the kids garden concert

    The Getty Center

    4.6(3.9k reviews)
    6.7 miBrentwood

    Perched on top of a hill right above the 405 freeway, the Getty Center offers outstanding views of…read moreLA with its amazing architecture, beautiful grounds, and an outstanding outdoor space. Entry is free, but parking is a flat $25 reservations for entry time need to be made online at Getty.edu. There is a trim that takes visitors up the hill to the Getty center. The main building once you first enter is the visitor center. There you can get a map and ask questions. There are a few separate buildings with different exhibits. Many are part of the permanent collection and are original artworks from legendary artists like Monet or Van Gogh. Some exhibits are themed and on rotation. They also hold evening events like small concerts and also have workshops for families and kids . There are several food and beverage options. There is a a bar with outdoor seating, a formal restaurant, two cafeteria and a few coffee carts. You can also pack a picnic and enjoy the outdoor space on their manicured lawn. As of May 2026, the center is in the process of slowly closing down and removing the collection. They will close for about a year and a half for renovations. Word is that they will redo some of the layout, install a new AC system, new floors, and new trams and more. The Getty Center is worth planning a day to tour for visitors and LA residents alike. It's peaceful very nicely, decorated and full of historical art. I can't wait to visit again once the renovations are done.

    Super fun activity in LA! I took my friend from out of town here and we had such a nice time. It's…read morefree to get tickets, you just need to reserve a time in advance. Parking does cost money so try to go in just one car to cut down on costs. It's $25. This place does get quite busy. You have to wait in a long line to get through security, it almost feels like Disneyland. And then you have to wait in line to board the tram to the center. Once you're there, it's such a big space to explore and walk around. There are beautiful gardens, different flowers to look at, and a central garden to look at and take pictures of. Not to mention many different spaces within the museum itself to see artwork and sculptures. Great place to come on the weekend and out-of-towners love it!

    Photos
    The Getty Center - Side of the Museum Exhibitions Pavilion. Always something new to discover!

    Side of the Museum Exhibitions Pavilion. Always something new to discover!

    The Getty Center - The Getty Center arrival Plaza

    The Getty Center arrival Plaza

    The Getty Center - The tram will take you all the way up to the Getty Center and back to your car.  Don't miss the Fran and Ray Stark Sculpture Garden!

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    The tram will take you all the way up to the Getty Center and back to your car. Don't miss the Fran and Ray Stark Sculpture Garden!

    STAR Eco Station - Two red foxes

    STAR Eco Station

    4.1(107 reviews)
    0.8 mi

    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!

    Photos
    STAR Eco Station - Who doesn't love a dragon?

    Who doesn't love a dragon?

    STAR Eco Station - Inside Out control station.

    Inside Out control station.

    STAR Eco Station

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    Mosaic Tile House - Love letter

    Mosaic Tile House

    4.7(74 reviews)
    3.1 miVenice
    $

    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.

    A friend saw this, probably on Tik Tok, and immediately knew that this is what she wanted to do for…read moreher birthday. So she emailed and made a reservation for us. Parking is in a residential neighborhood so be mindful of that. Entry fee is $20. Cash preferred but they do accept Venmo. I can understand how the price can seem steep for people needing to pay for a family. There ended up being a group of 8 of us and we ended up spending at least an hour and a half there. Possibly even more time. So many different picture opportunities and we were blessed with a beautiful sunny southern California day while we were there. The artist was on site while we were there and I made sure to thank him for sharing his beautiful works of art with us. The girl at the front gate was very friendly and happy to share the different payment options. There was artwork around every corner and even in the bathroom. There was even a gift shop that offered a variety of souvenirs and pieces to take home.

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    Mosaic Tile House
    Mosaic Tile House
    Mosaic Tile House - Side of the house

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    Side of the house

    Mr Brainwash Art Museum

    Mr Brainwash Art Museum

    4.7(178 reviews)
    4.1 mi

    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.

    Wow! Had a wonderful experience coming here before the museum officially CLOSES this Sunday! (Jan…read more18). All of the work of one artist, Mr. Brainwash, is showcased in this whimsical three story building located across from a parking garage that offers free 2 hour parking. The art pieces were like none other I've seen before from other art museums, yet at the same time, poke fun/homage to all types of classic art. There is a big focus on pop culture icons such as Kobe, Tupac, cartoon characters, and especially Disney characters. Their Disney collaboration is at the rooftop and overall the museum is a great spot for some unique photos and videos. It is truly a shame this museum is closing so soon (it will literally be demolished after all the art here is moved out!) but I'm so thankful my boyfriend and I were able to experience this before the museum closes. - restrooms located on every floor, well-maintained and clean - art pieces come in a variety of mediums, well-decorated space full of so many masterpieces - Qr codes next to some paintings that are available for purchase - free admission, you don't even need any tickets to walk in

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    Mr Brainwash Art Museum - Art recreation with an added Tesla

    Art recreation with an added Tesla

    Mr Brainwash Art Museum - A miniature made Life size... $1.95 price tag lol

    A miniature made Life size... $1.95 price tag lol

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    Hammer Museum - Salome dancing for Herod by Gustave Moreau

    Hammer Museum

    4.2(497 reviews)
    4.0 miWestwood, UCLA

    My first time at hammer museum and although I went as part of a work event, it was definitely an…read moreexperience. It is within walking distance from the ucla campus, many staff and students come to enjoy the scenery and relax. It is free admissions and they hold an exhibit that changes in theme and an exhibit that is permanent holding preserved art from historical periods. You can visit to eat your lunch under the peaceful shade of the trees or take a try of the rolling chairs and try not to go too crazy. They also have a restaurant inside if you want to stay in and not leave for a meal. They have plenty of staff around the areas, many are graduate students studying art related majors and others are art enthusiasts who want to share their passion for the art and artists. They also hold family friendly events on weekends and a public tour on Saturdays.

    My second time coming here, with my first time a few years back for one of the free events they…read morehosted. What I like most about this museum (other than that it's free admission) is that the inner courtyard is clean and modern with a nice breath of outdoor air!!! The iconic pieces from this museum is the roundtop chairs that are fun for anyone of all ages to sit and enjoy. We came here unplanned and only walked in to enjoy some art in the middle of the Cicla Via West LA event. If I remember correctly, there's garage parking. Lots of different art buildings to walk into. Good time to kill time and also to study at the courtyard. Well-maintained!!!

    Photos
    Hammer Museum - Sarah Bernhardt by Alfred Stevens

    Sarah Bernhardt by Alfred Stevens

    Hammer Museum - Noah Davis art

    Noah Davis art

    Hammer Museum - From rows of individual bricks made from dirt and clay gathered from each neighborhood of Los Angeles

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    From rows of individual bricks made from dirt and clay gathered from each neighborhood of Los Angeles

    Los Angeles County Museum of Art - A performance inside the gallery.

    Los Angeles County Museum of Art

    4.2(2.1k reviews)
    4.4 miMid-Wilshire

    LACMA opened their free summer concert series on Friday May 22 with Jazz. In most of the outside…read morearea, you couldn't even hear the music but that didn't matter at all. People came out in full force to have a good time. Everywhere you looked were happy people on blankets and folding chairs sharing laughs and picnics. Children playing with each other. It was the most amazing thing to be a part of. A utopian world where every culture, age group, income were existing in perfect harmony. We arrived about an hour before the music started so we were able to find a great corner spot for our folding chairs - perfect people watching. There are signs posted everywhere that encourage guests to bring their own food and drinks (alcohol is approved). There were young families, professionals just getting off work, even some eccentrics dancing wherever the mood took them. Everywhere you looked were groups together on blankets enjoying each other's company and making new friends with their blanket neighbors. Friday nights May to November are the free Jazz nights and Saturday nights Memorial Day to Labor Day are free Latin nights. I'm looking forward to attending many more of these fun free events!

    Fun place to explore and go on a date with your SO. I got lucky on that day to see a couple cool…read moreexhibitions. Be polite because there be people thinking and pondering about the meaning behind each art work so please be mindful, lol. My favorite art pieces is probably by Takashi Murakami who is known for making art collabs with Ben Baller, Kanye's cover album, and Nike! It was a fun time and would definitely come back to see other new things they have every season!

    Photos
    Los Angeles County Museum of Art - My kiddos enjoying the day at LACMA

    My kiddos enjoying the day at LACMA

    Los Angeles County Museum of Art - LACMA 5/17/26

    LACMA 5/17/26

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    Vegan Brat

    La Brea Tar Pits & Museum - The Lake Pit at La Brea Tar Pits

    La Brea Tar Pits & Museum

    4.2(1.3k reviews)
    4.5 miMid-Wilshire
    Not-for-profit
    Free WiFi

    I've been wanting to come here since I was a kid. I'd pass by this place so many times with my…read moreparents but never got a chance to make it here. I finally had the opportunity to come here and felt like I was living a dream! Although this museum is smaller than the Natural History Museum, the fact alone that this place is a literal tar pit is amazing. Reading the history and about the site alone is amusing. Would recommend for anyone in the area looking to learn more.

    I'm into science-y stuff, particularly when it comes to the ancient world, so this place was a…read moremust-stop. If you're visiting from out of town, I'd definitely recommend bundling tickets to this place via CityPass to save a little money. I have to say, the tar pits themselves were kinda disappointing. Between the fencing keeping guests a significant distance away and all the brush and leaves covering them, there wasn't a whole lot to see. Thankfully, the museum was far more interesting. Lots of recovered specimens are housed here; many of creatures long-gone. Some due to climate change, some due to Human interference. And of course, fossils of unfortunate creatures who wandered into the pits. Fascinating stuff, but approachable enough that the kids won't get bored. A good place to bring the fam. Just not much in the form of dining options, so eat before you visit.

    Photos
    La Brea Tar Pits & Museum - La Brea Tar Pits Atrium

    La Brea Tar Pits Atrium

    La Brea Tar Pits & Museum - A portal to the Ice Age at La Brea Tar Pits

    A portal to the Ice Age at La Brea Tar Pits

    La Brea Tar Pits & Museum - The Dire Wolf Wall at La Brea Tar Pits

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    The Dire Wolf Wall at La Brea Tar Pits

    Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences - props display

    Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences

    3.9(53 reviews)
    4.0 mi
    $$$$

    1/19/26, Visited this museum with a friend for our first…read moretime; we had both been wanting to visit this place when it first opened several years ago on September 30,2021 although since the lines were long then to get in that first year of opening we just simply forgot about it until this weekend nearly 5 years later. We weren't overly excited or impressed, there was really no wow factor about this museum. The only more interesting aspect was the exhibition of the early 1900s beginnings of Hollywoodland and the early movie making era. At least now we can say that we been there done that, one more check off our bucket list.

    I recently visited the Academy of motion pictures and the current exhibits are fabulous. I…read morespecifically went there to see one of my favorite animation films "Ponyo" but there was so much more to see. They currently have a jaws exhibit, beauty, and the beast, and Barbie as usual they have all of the fabulous costumes from various cinematic greats. It's a must see and definitely worth taking a day to visit. The admission is $25 parking is also around $25. You can get lost in there for an entire day. It's a day well spent. There is a café and a bar and the staff is extremely friendly and helpful. if you're looking for something to do in LA this is a place to go. I always enjoy myself and exhibits rotate so there's always something new to see!

    Photos
    Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences - Outside entrance

    Outside entrance

    Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences - Cheesy Oscar announcements

    Cheesy Oscar announcements

    Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences - Ponyo fish

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    Ponyo fish

    Wende Museum - museums - Updated June 2026

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