Free Museums in Los Angeles You Must Visit

Los Angeles is a city brimming with culture, history, and creativity, making it one of the best places to explore the top museums in LA. With an incredible range of options, from renowned art collections and historical exhibits to interactive science displays and cultural heritage sites, the city’s museums offer something for everyone. The best part? Many of these remarkable institutions are among the best free museums in Los Angeles, offering free admission or designated free days. This means that exploring the rich cultural scene of LA is accessible to all, whether you're a local or a visitor, and you can enjoy a wealth of experiences without spending a penny.

With so many incredible options to choose from, exploring LA's vibrant cultural scene has never been easier or more affordable. To help you plan your visit, here’s a curated list of some of the best free museums in Los Angeles, each offering a unique experience and a glimpse into different aspects of art, history, and science. Whether you're interested in contemporary art, natural history, or cultural heritage, these museums provide enriching and engaging experiences for everyone.

1. The Getty Center

European art and special exhibitions in Getty Center. Source: Wikipedia

• What It’s About: Art, Architecture, and Gardens.
• Why Visit: The Getty Center is more than just a museum—it’s an experience. Perched atop the Santa Monica Mountains with sweeping views of Los Angeles, this museum offers an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Renaissance to the 20th century. The stunning architecture by Richard Meier and its beautiful gardens are reasons enough to visit. The Getty Center is ideal for those who love fine art, architecture, and peaceful outdoor spaces. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or someone who simply enjoys taking in beautiful views and serene settings, this is one of the top free attractions in Los Angeles.

• Admission: Free, but parking costs $20 per car.
• Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Closed Mondays.
• Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049.
• Perfect For: Art enthusiasts, tourists, families looking for a cultural day out.

2. California Science Center

• What It’s About: Science and Technology.
• Why Visit: If you're into space exploration, biology, or simply love hands-on exhibits, the California Science Center is a must-visit. Known for housing the space shuttle Endeavour, this interactive museum lets visitors explore various aspects of science, from the human body to ecosystems. This is one of the best free museums in Los Angeles for families, offering countless learning opportunities and fun experiences.

• Admission: Free for general exhibits. IMAX and special exhibits require a fee.
• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037.
• Perfect For: Families, science lovers, school groups.

3. The Broad

• What It’s About: Contemporary Art.
• Why Visit: The Broad is one of LA’s most popular modern art museums, with a striking exterior and equally impressive collection inside. Housing works from contemporary artists like Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and Andy Warhol, this museum is perfect for lovers of cutting-edge, thought-provoking art. The Infinity Mirror Rooms are a particular highlight, offering a surreal and immersive experience. If you’re passionate about modern art, or just looking for one of the best free museums in Los Angeles, The Broad is the place to go.

• Admission: Free, but reservations are recommended. Walk-ins are available, but wait times can be long.
• Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
• Address: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
• Perfect For: Contemporary art lovers, tourists seeking Instagram-worthy spots, young adults.

4. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

• What It’s About: Art (various periods and styles).
• Why Visit: LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, showcasing more than 150,000 works ranging from ancient to contemporary art. While it's not always free, LACMA offers free admission on the first Tuesday of every month and for LA County residents after 3 PM on weekdays. It's an excellent place to see everything from ancient artifacts to modern installations.

• Admission: Free for LA County residents on weekdays after 3:00 PM and for everyone on the first Tuesday of every month.
• Hours: Open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Friday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Closed Wednesdays.
• Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
• Perfect For: Art lovers, history buffs, tourists.

5. Hammer Museum

• What It’s About: Contemporary Art.
• Why Visit: Located in Westwood, the Hammer Museum is an excellent choice for anyone interested in contemporary art with a political and social edge. The museum frequently hosts exhibits that challenge traditional notions of art and provoke thought on modern-day issues. Best of all, it’s free to the public every day, making it one of the top free museums in Los Angeles for art lovers.

• Admission: Free year-round.
• Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed Mondays.
• Address: 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024.
• Perfect For: Contemporary art lovers, students, social activists.

6. Autry Museum of the American West

• What It’s About: History and Culture of the American West.
• Why Visit: Located in Griffith Park, the Autry Museum is dedicated to exploring the history, culture, and stories of the American West. It offers exhibits on Native American heritage, cowboys, Hollywood Westerns, and more. On the second Tuesday of every month, the museum offers free admission, giving visitors a chance to learn about a fascinating chapter in American history without paying an entry fee.

• Admission: Free on the second Tuesday of each month.
• Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Closed Mondays.
• Address: 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027.
• Perfect For: History buffs, families, lovers of Western films and culture.

7. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

• What It’s About: Natural History and Dinosaurs.
• Why Visit: One of the most iconic museums in LA, the Natural History Museum features an extensive collection of fossils, including dinosaurs, and exhibitions on the natural world. The museum is a fantastic place to visit with children or anyone fascinated by the Earth’s history. Free admission is available on the first Tuesday of each month, giving visitors access to a variety of fascinating displays.

• Admission: Free on the first Tuesday of every month (except July and August).
• Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Address: 900 W Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007.
• Perfect For: Families, dinosaur lovers, science enthusiasts.

8. Griffith Observatory

• What It’s About: Astronomy and Space.
• Why Visit: Griffith Observatory is one of the most famous attractions in Los Angeles, offering stunning views of the city and the stars. Visitors can explore space and astronomy exhibits, use telescopes, and even catch a show at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. Best of all, it’s free to explore the exhibits and use the public telescopes.
• Admission: Free for the building and telescopes. Planetarium shows require tickets.

• Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Closed Mondays.
• Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027.
• Perfect For: Space enthusiasts, families, tourists looking for great views.

9. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

• What It’s About: Contemporary Art.
• Why Visit: MOCA is one of the premier destinations for modern and contemporary art in Los Angeles. With a focus on bold and innovative works from the 1940s to the present, MOCA is a great place to dive into the world of modern art. You’ll find pieces from famous artists such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko, and the museum frequently features thought-provoking temporary exhibits.

• Free Days: Free admission every Thursday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Address: 250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
• Perfect For: Contemporary art lovers, students, and those curious about modern art.

10. Skirball Cultural Center

• What It’s About: Jewish History and Culture.
• Why Visit: The Skirball Cultural Center offers an exploration of Jewish heritage, history, and culture. The museum is known for its interactive exhibits, such as the Noah’s Ark exhibit, which is perfect for families with children. In addition to its permanent displays, the museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that explore themes of diversity, immigration, and social justice.

• Free Days: Free on Thursdays.
• Address: 2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049.
• Perfect For: Families, history buffs, those interested in Jewish culture.

11. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

• What It’s About: Art, History, and Botanical Gardens.
• Why Visit: The Huntington offers a unique blend of art, literature, and nature. Its impressive library houses rare books and manuscripts, including a Gutenberg Bible, while the art museum features works from European and American artists. The expansive botanical gardens are a highlight, featuring themed gardens such as the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Desert Garden. It’s an oasis of culture and beauty, and free admission is offered once a month.

• Free Days: Free on the first Thursday of every month, but advance tickets are required.
• Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108.
• Perfect For: Art lovers, nature enthusiasts, families, book lovers.

12. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

• What It’s About: Natural History, Ice Age Fossils.
• Why Visit: The La Brea Tar Pits are a fascinating site where visitors can witness active excavation of Ice Age fossils. The museum presents an array of fossils discovered at the site, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves. Visitors can also watch scientists at work, preserving and studying the remains. It’s a unique place for anyone interested in paleontology and natural history.

• Free Days: Free on the first Tuesday of each month (except July and August) and every Monday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM for LA County residents.
• Address: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
• Perfect For: History buffs, families, paleontology enthusiasts.

13. Japanese American National Museum

• What It’s About: Japanese American History and Culture.
• Why Visit: The Japanese American National Museum provides a deep dive into the experiences of Japanese Americans, from their immigration to the U.S. to their internment during World War II. It’s an important place to learn about civil rights and cultural identity, featuring exhibits, films, and historical artifacts.

• Free Days: Free on the third Thursday of each month from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and every second Saturday of the month.
• Address: 100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
• Perfect For: History buffs, those interested in civil rights, students.

14. Craft Contemporary

• What It’s About: Contemporary Craft and Art.
• Why Visit: Craft Contemporary is all about pushing the boundaries of traditional craft and design, showcasing works by contemporary artists using innovative materials and techniques. It’s a great place to get inspired by the creativity and craftsmanship on display, and it's ideal for those who appreciate design and innovation.
• Free Days: Pay-what-you-can on Sundays.

• Address: 5814 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
• Perfect For: Art lovers, craft enthusiasts, creatives.

Thesefree museums in Los Angeles offer a wide range of experiences, from art and science to history and astronomy, making LA an exciting destination for museum-goers of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to spend a day among masterpieces at The Getty or explore the cosmos at Griffith Observatory, these cultural gems provide something for everyone without breaking the bank.