Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, known universally as LACMA, is the largest encyclopaedic art museum in the western United States. Its vast collection of more than 140,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of human creativity makes it one of the great art institutions of the Americas. Situated on the Miracle Mile section of Wilshire Boulevard, LACMA is distinguished not only by the depth of its collection but by its commitment to representing the full breadth of global art history, with exceptional strengths in the art of the Americas, Islamic world, and Asia.

The Collection

LACMA collections encompass ancient Egyptian and Greek antiquities, European Old Master paintings and sculpture, Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterworks, and one of the finest collections of South and Southeast Asian art in the world. The museum holds particular strength in Latin American art, featuring works by Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and major pre-Columbian civilisations. The modern and contemporary galleries display works by Picasso, Matisse, Mark Rothko, and major California artists. The Islamic art collection, presented in a dedicated gallery, is among the finest in North America.

Urban Light and Outdoor Installations

Before even entering the museum, visitors are greeted by Urban Light, Chris Burden iconic installation of 202 restored antique streetlamps arranged in a dramatic grid along Wilshire Boulevard. This beloved landmark has become one of the most photographed spots in Los Angeles, especially magical at dusk when the lamps glow warm against the darkening sky. The museum grounds also display other major outdoor installations including Michael Heizer Levitated Mass, a 340-tonne granite boulder elevated above a walkway that visitors can walk beneath.

Programs and Events

LACMA offers an outstanding programme of temporary exhibitions that regularly bring major touring shows from international institutions. Friday evenings feature LACMA Jazz, a free outdoor concert series running from April through November. The museum complex includes a research library, multiple restaurants and cafes, and a comprehensive museum shop. The Bing Theater presents a film programme curated around the collection and contemporary cinema from around the world.

Practical Information

• Free to LA County residents on the second Tuesday of each month
• Urban Light is free to visit any time, even when the museum is closed
• Audio guides and guided tours are available
• The museum spans multiple buildings connected by outdoor walkways
• Allow a full day for a comprehensive visit

Getting There

LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Boulevard on the Miracle Mile, approximately 10 kilometres west of downtown Los Angeles. The Metro D Line (Purple) extension includes a station at Wilshire/Fairfax adjacent to the museum, providing a direct connection from downtown LA. Bus routes 20 and 720 run frequently along Wilshire Boulevard. Validated parking is available in the Pritzker parking garage on Spaulding Avenue adjacent to the museum.