LACMA serves an important role in the cultural ide...

LACMA serves an important role in the cultural identity of Los Angeles, and of us all. The permanent collection is robust and immersive, and the exhibitions regularly provoke me to consider my participation in a shared humanity far beyond the bubble of my immediate experiences which is where art is most powerful. I ve attended too many important exhibitions at LACMA over the years to list here, but suffice to say that this is my go-to cultural experience when I m in LA. I wish the museum were free, not because I don t value the work (it s worth far more than the $25 entrance fee), but because free would dramatically increase its accessibility to far greater audience. Still, it s well worth the price of admission.

Plan on at least a few hours. If it s your first time, make a quick lap around the many venues to see what s on view, making mental notes on what you d like to come back to. Then choose a few exhibitions and give your time generously to the experience. Take a break and have something to eat or drink at one of the cafes, then dive dive back in. Make sure to walk the outside areas taking in the art LACMA has placed on public view. It s a great way to spend an afternoon.