Free Museums In Los Angeles
Griffith Observatory, Los Feliz
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Things To Do In Los Angeles For Free - Why Museums Are A Good Pick
Los Angeles is expensive. Especially if you’re looking for things to do as a family. Luckily, Los Angeles also has a number of outstanding, accessible, and free-entry museums. Free LA museums are a great way to get out, see the city, experience something new, and maybe even learn something. And it won’t cost you a thing. When it comes to museums, Los Angeles offers everything from space shuttles and dinosaur bones to contemporary art and sculpture.
Sure, people say that LA lacks culture, but I say they’re wrong. There are tons of great museums here and cost doesn’t have to be a barrier to enjoying them. Below I’ll give you all the tips you need to enjoy a variety of free museums in Los Angeles.
LACMA
Tips For Getting In Free To Museums
Museum Free Day Los Angeles - Many of Los Angeles’s top museums participate in free museum days. This is the easiest way to see LA’s top art, science, and cultural attractions without spending a ton of cash. I’ve noted each museum’s participation below.
Free Museums Los Angeles With EBT - Locations such as The Museum of Latin American Art, Japanese American National Museum, La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, LACMA, MOCA, The Norton Simon Museum, Skirball Cultural Center, and The Natural History Museum offer free admission with your EBT card any day of the week. For more information check out The County of Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services website.
Use Your Library Card - Did you know that in California, libraries offer free museum passes to local zoos, aquariums, children’s museums, art museums, and more? It’s true! Make use of that library card and reserve some free tickets today. Museum passes can usually be reserved online but have to be picked up from your local library. Click here to read more about free museum passes from your local library.
California Free Museum Day - Once a year over 30 Los Angeles museums participate in Museums Free For All Day. In 2024 this free-for-all all bonanza is scheduled for Saturday, March 23. For a full list of participating museums, visit So-Cal Museums Annual Free-For-All.
Space shuttle Endeavour at California Science Center
Free Admission Museums In Los Angeles
These are museums with free admission year-round. Guests can tour collections showcasing art, science, and entertainment and it won’t cost you a dime. With the possible exception of parking. Sorry, it’s Los Angeles, parking is almost always going to be an issue.
The Getty Villa
Free admission with a timed ticket; parking is $20 and after 3 pm $15 (admission is valid same-day at Getty Center).
Located in the picturesque Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, The Getty Villa exemplifies the grandeur of ancient Roman and Greek art and architecture. This stunning museum, designed as a re-creation of a first-century Roman country house, houses J. Paul Getty's extensive collection of antiquities.
Visitors will enjoy wandering through the meticulously curated galleries and lush gardens. The Getty Villa's peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking coastal views make it a top spot for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a truly unparalleled experience in the heart of Southern California.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking spaces are located in both Central and South garages and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Staff can direct you to the closest parking available.
For visitors with blindness or partial sight, the free GettyGuide app, provides visual descriptions, an audio tour, and offers detailed descriptions of selected works on display at the Villa.
For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing free assisted listening devices (ALDs) are available for all tours and for the Orientation Theater and Villa Auditorium. Free induction neck loops and open captioning are also available. Text transcriptions of audio tours are available on the free GettyGuide app.
For visitors with mobility impairments, wheelchairs are available to rent for free on a first-come, first-served basis in the Entry Pavilion. Front- and rear-row wheelchair seating is available at events in the Auditorium and the Outdoor Classical Theater for visitors using wheelchairs and for their companions. Please arrive early to reach this area before programs begin. Visitor Services staff will be available to assist you. All public restrooms have accessible facilities.
Address: 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
The Broad
The Broad
Free with reservation, including The Infinity Mirror Room. Timed tickets are required.
The Broad in Downtown Los Angeles features a dazzling showcase of contemporary art, featuring an expansive collection of over 2,000 pieces. The museum's striking architecture, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, is a real standout, with its honeycomb-like exterior that filters natural light into the expansive gallery spaces.
Inside, visitors are treated to a wide range of artistic expressions, from iconic works by luminaries like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Jeff Koons to thought-provoking installations by Yayoi Kusama and Takashi Murakami. The Broad's commitment to accessibility is evident in its free general admission, allowing all art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in its captivating exhibitions.
To reserve your free tickets, visit The Broad website.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking spaces are available on P1 of The Broad Garage.
All galleries and facilities are wheelchair accessible. A limited number of wheelchairs are available free of charge in the lobby on a first-come, first-served basis.
Large-print gallery notes are available on request free of charge. Audio tours are available on their free mobile museum guide. Transcripts are provided on the webpage of each audio tour. Physical transcripts are available on request. Ask any Visitor Experience Team Member upon arrival.
Visual description tours and ASL interpreter tours are available upon request. Please email groups@thebroad.org at least two weeks prior to your preferred visit date.
Address: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Hammer Museum
The Hammer Museum
Free Year Round Admission.
The Hammer Museum is a celebrated cultural institution and a must-visit spot for art lovers. Boasting a diverse collection of contemporary art, the museum showcases an array of thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge traditional artistic boundaries. The Hammer Museum also hosts various lectures, screenings, and discussions, making it a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and intellectual exploration. Whether you're an art lover or simply curious about the world of contemporary art, The Hammer Museum offers a great way to spend the afternoon.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking spaces are located on Level P1 of the museum’s parking garage, directly across from the lobby entrance.
If you’re taking public transportation or being dropped off at the museum, an accessible entry into the museum’s courtyard is located on Lindbrook Avenue.
Two wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the museum welcome desk. You may call ahead to reserve a wheelchair at 310-443-7020 or email accessibility@hammer.ucla.edu. Portable stools are also available for use in the galleries. Just ask any Hammer ambassador stationed in the galleries.
Assistive listening devices (ALDs) are available for use at the museum. For lectures and other programs in the theaters, these can be picked up at the box office. For other programs, and to ensure availability, please call 310-443-7020 or email accessibility@hammer.ucla.edu in advance.
Large-print texts of the interpretive labels in many of the galleries are available upon request. Ask any gallery attendant or staff person for assistance.
Address: 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024
La Brea Tar Pits
La Brea Tar Pits And Museum
Museum free for L.A. County residents Mon–Fri 3–5 pm (closed first Tue of the month); the Tar Pits area is always free.
Sadly, you won’t get into the actual museum for free if you’re not an LA county local, but you will get to see the most important part, the actual tar pits.
The La Brea Tar Pits are a natural phenomenon formed by a collection of natural asphalt seeps, which have trapped and preserved the remains of countless Ice Age creatures over thousands of years. These impeccably preserved fossils provide insight into the biodiversity and way of life of prehistoric animals, making the Tar Pits a significant archaeological site.
Visitors can also explore the on-site museum, which showcases an impressive collection of fossils and provides a deep understanding of the animals that once roamed the LA area.
Accessibility:
Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and can be checked out at the Main Entrance by depositing a driver's license or other form of valid identification. All exhibits and theaters within the museum building are accessible for wheelchairs. Wheelchair users may enter through the Main Entrance, located on the south side of the building; follow the suggested route through the pedestrian gate adjacent to the accessible spaces in the parking lot.
Accessible parking is available in the La Brea Tar Pits car park. From here, follow the paved trail around the park and to the entrance of the museum.
Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available in the museum at La Brea Tar Pits.
All exhibits at the museum contain videos with open captioning. At the 3D theater, CaptiView closed captioning and assistive listening devices are available for movies upon request from theater staff. American Sign Language interpretation or CART services are provided for free at all public programs, lectures, and tours.
Address: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
The Getty Center Gardens
The Getty Center
Free with timed ticket; parking $20, after 3 pm $15, after 6 pm (when open) $10 (valid same-day at Getty Villa).
The Getty Center is a world-renowned art museum and research institution that showcases an incredibly large collection of European paintings, drawings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as American and European photographs. The museum's striking modern architecture, designed by architect Richard Meier, offers visitors some of the best views in Los Angeles.
Its impeccably landscaped gardens, outdoor sculptures, and tranquil atmosphere make it a delightful place for art enthusiasts and casual visitors to explore and find inspiration. If you’re visiting LA and only have time for one museum, The Getty Center is hands down my favorite.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking spaces are located on the entry-level of the Main Parking Structure. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For visitors with blindness or partial sight, the free GettyGuide app provides visual descriptions, an audio tour, and offers detailed descriptions of selected works on display at the Center.
For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing, free assisted listening devices (ALDs) are available for all tours and for the Orientation Theater. The Getty also provides free induction neck looks and open captioning. Text transcriptions of audio tours are available on the free GettyGuide app.
A computer-operated tram from the parking structure to the top of the hill is accessible for visitors using wheelchairs. If using a wheelchair, please board in an end car. To reach the tram, take the elevator in the parking structure up to level T1. The tram station is approximately 20 level feet from the elevator doors.
Wheelchairs are available for free rental on a first-come, first-served basis at the Lower Tram Station above the parking structure and at the Coat Check Room in the Museum Entrance Hall.
All public restrooms have accessible facilities.
Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
California African American Museum Los Angeles, CA
Free admission year-round.
The California African American Museum, located in Exposition Park in Los Angeles, is a vibrant and essential institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the art, history, and culture of African Americans. The museum's collection includes more than 4,000 objects, photographs, and documents that span centuries of African American experience.
Visitors can explore thought-provoking exhibitions that address various themes such as social justice, identity, and community. Additionally, the museum regularly hosts engaging educational programs, film screenings, and special events that offer deep insights into African American heritage.
Accessibility:
CAAM does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation or other auxiliary aids and/or services to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. To ensure availability, you are advised to make your request at least 72 hours before the program or activity you wish to attend.
Wheelchairs are available if needed. To book a wheelchair, or for any other needs, please contact iDesk@caamuseum.org or 213.744.2084.
Address: 600 State Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037
The Geffen Contemporary in DTLA’s Arts District
MOCA The Museum of Contemporary Art
Free with a timed ticket.
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), located in downtown Los Angeles, is a prominent cultural institution dedicated to showcasing contemporary art from the 1940s to the present day. With its amazing exhibitions, dynamic programming, and extensive collection of over 7,000 objects, MOCA has established itself as a leading voice in the international art world.
The museum offers works from famous artists like Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock. Whether it's exploring the latest avant-garde installations or delving into the works of groundbreaking artists, a visit to MOCA promises an entertaining way to spend the day.
Accessibility:
Wheelchairs are available at the reception or lobby desks. Just check in with a MOCA Gallery Attendant when you arrive at MOCA.
MOCA is happy to schedule American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters for special tours, lectures, and other talk-focused public programs with two weeks’ notice. You may request an interpreter by emailing tickets@moca.org.
Assistive Listening Devices for programs and tours are available by request. Email tickets@moca.org or ask a staff member.
Address: 250 South Grand Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90012
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory
Free; parking is $8–$10 per hour.
The Griffith Observatory, perched on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles, is a delightful blend of architectural splendor and scientific wonder. Opened to the public in 1935, this iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the Los Angeles basin and the iconic Hollywood Sign. A trip to Griffith Observatory definitely belongs on your LA Bucket list.
Visitors can explore the various exhibits within the observatory, delving into the realms of astronomy, space exploration, and the history of the universe. The observatory also houses a state-of-the-art planetarium, providing mesmerizing shows that bring the cosmos to life. Whether admiring the striking Art Deco design of the building or gazing through telescopes at the night sky, the Griffith Observatory is a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for astronomy and a desire to connect with the wonders of the universe.
Accessibility:
Those in vehicles with disabled plates or placards may park in the designated spaces available in the Observatory’s front lot. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Word of warning, Griffith Observatory falls woefully short when it comes to accessible spaces. When I visited, it took nearly 45 minutes of circling before we were able to park. I would advise avoiding peak times of the day when visiting because there really isn’t another parking option without having to hike up a massive hill in the dirt. It’s not exactly an option if you have mobility impairments.
All levels of the building and grounds are accessible to all visitors. Each level has elevator access, and some are also accessible by ramp. Both of the theaters - Samuel Oschin Planetarium and Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon - offer assisted listening devices (ALDs) upon request. Open captioning is also available.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Institute Of Contemporary Art Los Angeles
Free admission year-round.
The Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (ICA LA) is a visionary museum dedicated to showcasing the most innovative and experimental contemporary art. Located in Downtown LA’s Arts District, this museum of contemporary art offers an array of exhibitions, programs, and events.
With a commitment to supporting emerging and under-recognized artists, the museum serves as a hub for the local artistic community and a platform for cutting-edge artistic expression. Its sleek and modern building provides a fitting space for visitors to engage with contemporary art in all its forms.
Accessibility:
All public spaces at ICA LA are wheelchair accessible. Should you need further assistance, visit the Front Desk. ADA–defined service animals are also welcome to accompany visitors.
Address: 1717 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Astronaut’s clothing on exhibit at California Science Center
California Science Center
Permanent exhibitions are free year-round.
The California Science Center is the top destination for science enthusiasts of all ages. Boasting an impressive collection of interactive exhibits, this museum engages visitors in a wide array of scientific endeavors. From the awe-inspiring Space Shuttle Endeavour to the diverse ecosystems showcased in the Ecosystems exhibit, the center offers an immersive and educational experience.
Its mission to inspire curiosity and ignite a passion for discovery is evident in its hands-on demonstrations and insightful presentations. With its engaging displays and commitment to scientific education, the California Science Center continues to be a must-visit destination for anyone eager to delve into the wonders of the natural world.
Accessibility:
All spaces in the California Science Center are wheelchair accessible. All levels are accessible by elevator or stairs. Accessible parking spaces are available on levels 1, 2, and 3 of the Science Center parking lot, entered from 39th Street and Figueroa. Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking is $15 per vehicle.
Standard manual wheelchairs are available for free at the Information Desk on a first-come, first-served basis for use inside the California Science Center. All California Science Center restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
For those with visual impairments, large-print copies of the exhibit labels are available at the exhibit entrance.
For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing, free closed captioning and assistive listening devices in English are available for all current IMAX films. Please alert a member of the Box Office or IMAX Theater team and they will assist you.
Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037
Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl Museum
Free admission year-round.
The Hollywood Bowl Museum is a cute little museum offering a journey through the history of one of the most iconic music venues in the world. Visitors can explore a collection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits that showcase the rich musical heritage and cultural significance of the Hollywood Bowl. Guests can learn about the evolution of this legendary amphitheater, from its early beginnings to the present day, and gain a deeper understanding of the countless legendary performers who have graced its stage.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking is available in two locations (at two price levels) at the Hollywood Bowl: in Lot A at the Field Gate (very limited availability), and in Lot B.
Both parking lot entrances are off the west side of Highland Avenue. Both lots include spaces for rear-loading and side-loading vans and have accessible paths of travel into seating areas.
Parking can be purchased through through calling Accessibility Services at 323 850 2125 (Tuesday-Sunday from 11 am-5 pm), email, mail, fax, or on their website.
Address: 2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
LA Museums That Participate In Los Angeles Museums Free Days
The following museums offer free admission days once a week or once a month giving visitors a chance to view their collections often just for the price of parking. Sorry, again, it’s LA and parking is almost always an issue.
Museums offering select free museum days in Los Angeles are as follows:
USC Pacific Asia Museum
Pay what you wish on Thursdays, free the second Sunday of each month 11 am–5 pm.
The USC Pacific Asia Museum, located in Pasadena, California, is a cultural gem that showcases the art and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Housed in a historic Chinese Qing Dynasty-inspired mansion, the museum features a collection of over 17,000 artifacts, including traditional paintings, ceramics, textiles, and sculptures.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich artistic traditions of Asia through the museum's engaging exhibitions and educational programs. With its serene garden and captivating displays, the USC Pacific Asia Museum offers a unique and insightful experience that celebrates the beauty and heritage of the region.
Accessibility:
All public spaces of the building and garden are accessible to visitors with mobility impairments and are wheelchair accessible.
Address: 46 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101
Japanese American National Museum
Japanese American National Museum
Free Thursday 5–8 pm, every third Thursday noon–8 pm.
The Japanese American National Museum, located in Downtown LA’s Little Tokyo neighborhood, is a tribute to the rich history and cultural heritage of Japanese Americans. As the first and largest museum in the United States dedicated to preserving and sharing the story of Japanese Americans, it offers a profound and multifaceted understanding of their experiences, challenges, and contributions to the nation.
The museum’s exhibits bring to life the complex narrative of Japanese Americans, from their immigration and internment during World War II to their resilience, achievements, and ongoing cultural impact.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking spaces are available at all surrounding parking locations. JANM Plaza is wheelchair and walker accessible.
Elevators are available inside the Japanese American National Museum.
Address: 100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Skirball Cultural Center
Free every Thursday.
The Skirball Cultural Center is dedicated to exploring the connections between four thousand years of Jewish heritage and the vitality of American democratic ideals. The Skirball encompasses a museum, cultural center, and performing arts venue. The venue presents a range of exhibitions, music and performing arts events, film screenings, family programs, and educational initiatives.
Located in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains, just off the 405 freeway, the Skirball invites visitors of all backgrounds to engage with its thought-provoking exhibitions. With its commitment to inclusivity and social justice, the Skirball Cultural Center is an important place to visit.
Accessibility:
ADA-accessible parking is located in the South Parking garage. The North and East Parking garages also include a limited number of ADA-accessible spaces. Power-assist doors are located at the main entrance.
All Museum galleries (including Noah’s Ark at the Skirball), Audrey’s Museum Store, Zeidler’s Café, and other indoor and outdoor spaces at the Skirball are accessible to mobility devices. The use of motorized wheelchairs and other power-driven mobility aids is permitted.
All public restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
A limited number of wheelchairs are available for check-out on a first-come, first-served basis at the lobby desk in the Main Entrance and at the security kiosk in the North Parking garage. If you are parking in the East Parking garage and require a wheelchair, please call (310) 440-4676 in advance so that a security guard may be ready to assist you upon your arrival. To check out a wheelchair, you must leave an ID with the security guard.
Built-in and portable assisted listening devices are available during public programs. Please inquire with the security guard upon your arrival for additional information. To check out a device, you must leave an ID with the security guard.
Address: 2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Norton Simon Museum
Norton Simon Museum
Free first Friday of the month 4–7 pm.
The Norton Simon Museum, located in Pasadena, California, is a world-renowned art museum that boasts an impressive collection spanning 2,000 years of global art history. The museum's striking architecture and beautiful sculpture garden provide a fantastic setting for visitors to explore an extensive range of artwork, including European paintings, Asian sculptures, and contemporary pieces. Notable works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Picasso, among others, grace the museum's galleries.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking spaces are available in both the upper and lower parking lots of the Museum. A Museum entrance ramp is located to the right of the main entrance stairway. An additional entrance ramp is located in the lower-level parking area. A security attendant will be available for assistance.
The Museum has a limited number of wheelchairs for use by visitors on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please request a wheelchair at the Admissions Desk or the Coat Check desk, located on the entry-level. All public areas between the two levels of the Museum are accessible by elevator, including ADA-compliant restrooms. The Norton Simon Museum Theater is equipped with two wheelchair pads, one on each side of the theater. There are also special seats that allow visitors to slide in by lifting an armrest.
Assisted listening devices are available for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing and can be used in the theater during special programs or weekly tours. The daily screenings of the introductory film, “The Art of Norton Simon,” include open captioning.
Visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing may request ASL interpreters be present for special events. Please contact the Tours & Education department via the Contact Us page two weeks before the event.
An easy-to-use tablet with a copy of the audio tour script is available at the Information Desk. A booklet with object label copy in large print is also available at the Information Desk.
Address: 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105
Museum of Contemporary Latin American Art
Free Sundays from 11 am–6 pm.
The Museum of Contemporary Latin American Art is filled with colorful and evocative paintings and bold and innovative sculptures. The museum showcases the creativity and talent of both established and emerging Latin American artists. The Museum of Contemporary Latin American Art not only celebrates the region's artistic heritage but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of contemporary Latin American art and its impact on global culture.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking spaces are available in the parking lot adjacent to the Museum. All museum entrances and floors are accessible to visitors using wheeled devices or who have mobility difficulties. Manual wheelchairs are available and may be checked out free of charge.
Address: 628 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
Me enjoying Chris Burden’s Urban Light at LACMA
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Free every second Tuesday 11 am–6 pm. L.A. County residents get in for free on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 3–6 pm; and Friday from 3–8 pm. Timed tickets are recommended.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is one of the most renowned museums on this list. LACMA boasts an impressive collection of over 135,000 works encompassing art from ancient times to the present day. With its striking architectural presence, LACMA features not only a strong core of American and Latin American art but also hosts an array of rotating exhibitions, showcasing the depth of artistic expression from around the world.
The museum is perhaps most known for Chris Burden’s Urban Light, a piece made up of 202 cast-iron street lamps gathered from around L.A. and restored to working order. But don’t just stop by for this Instagram photo opportunity. Venture into the museum for a dazzling array of art.
LACMA's commitment to engaging and educating the public is evident through its dynamic programming, which includes film screenings, musical performances, and lectures, making it a cultural hub that continuously fosters creativity and understanding.
Accessibility:
Accessible parking is available in the underground Pritzker Parking Garage off Sixth St. (one block east of Fairfax Ave.). These parking spots are located on P1, adjacent to the elevators. Accessible parking is offered for standard, van, and electric vehicles.
Every restroom at LACMA is wheelchair accessible. Every gallery, restroom, dining service, and outside space at LACMA is also wheelchair accessible. Complimentary wheelchairs are available at the Ticket Office during regular operating hours on a first-come, first-served basis. Motorized wheelchairs are welcome.
Visitors are encouraged to bring headphones to the galleries to enjoy unique, in-gallery tours, music, and other multimedia content on their personal devices.
Some galleries offer large-print labels and other additional information in accessible forms.
Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Japanese gardens at Huntington Library
Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
Free first Thursday of the month with advance ticket purchase.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is located in San Marino, California. This sprawling estate is home to a massive collection of rare books, European and American art, and gorgeous botanical gardens. Seriously, I cannot stress the splendor of these gardens enough.
As you walk around these beautiful grounds, you can marvel at the vast array of plant species, ranging from desert succulents to lush, tropical flora. The library itself houses a treasure trove of literary artifacts, including a Gutenberg Bible and original manuscripts from famous authors. Huntington Library is a definite must-see museum.
Accessibility:
All buildings and most garden areas at The Huntington are accessible to visitors who require physical accommodations. Wheelchairs are available for loan on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own motorized scooters, wheelchairs, or Segways.
A color-coded map of the grounds is available online and in the Visitor’s Guide when you arrive, showing steep areas.
For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing, assistive listening devices (ALD), sign language interpretation, and real-time captioning are available for all public events; please email or call 626-405-3549 at least 10 days in advance of the event to make arrangements.
Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108
The Los Angeles Holocaust Museum
Free Sunday 10 am–5 pm.
The Los Angeles Holocaust Museum serves as a poignant and powerful testament to the atrocities of one of the darkest chapters in human history. Located in Pan Pacific Park, this museum preserves and presents the stories of survivors, honors the memories of the millions who perished, and educates visitors about the Holocaust's enduring relevance.
Through its compelling exhibits, including artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts, the museum creates a somber yet important space for reflection and remembrance. It stands as a vital reminder of the consequences of hatred and intolerance, while also promoting understanding, empathy, and the imperative to uphold human rights for future generations.
Accessibility:
The Los Angeles Holocaust Museum is accessible to wheelchair users and others with disabilities. If you are interested in requesting an American Sign Language (ASL) tour, please contact reception at 323.651.3704
Address: 100 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Museums That Are Free For LA County Residents
The following locations offer free museum admission for LA county residents only. If you’re visiting from outside the LA area I’ve included ticket price information.
Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum
Free for L.A. County residents Monday – Friday from 3–5 pm. General Admission tickets are $7 - $18 for everyone else. (The Museum is closed on the first Tuesday of the month).
The Los Angeles Natural History Museum, located in Exposition Park, is a great destination for visitors of all ages. The museum boasts an extensive collection of natural specimens, including awe-inspiring dinosaur fossils, sparkling gemstones, and intricately preserved insects.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the diverse ecosystems of Southern California and beyond through lifelike dioramas and interactive exhibits. From my personal favorite, the dinosaur hall, to the enchanting Butterfly Pavilion, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the natural world, making it a must-visit for anyone with a passion for science, history, and the environment.
Accessibility:
All exhibits are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, wiexcepttrollers inside the Butterfly and Spider Pavilion. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and can be checked out by leaving a driver's license or other form of valid identification. Inquire with the Guest Relations staff once you arrive.
Accessible parking is available in the NHM car park. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available throughout the museum.
All exhibits (except the Gem and Mineral Hall and Bird Hall) contain videos with open captioning. At the 3D theater, CaptiView closed captioning and assistive listening devices are available for all movies upon request from theater staff. American Sign Language interpretation or CART services are provided for free at all public programs, lectures, and tours. To request ASL interpretation or CART services, please contact info@nhm.org at least two weeks before your visit.
Address: 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007
A Final Word On Free Museums in LA
Los Angeles truly has some amazing museums. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to pass a rainy day, expand your knowledge of the arts, science, and culture, or for a way to entertain your children, LA has it.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of free museums in Los Angeles and found some cool new places to check out.
