Embark on a captivating journey through Los Angeles’ vibrant museum scene on your single parent staycation. Discover the iconic LACMA and other remarkable museums, along with the days they offer free admission. Get expert travel tips for single parents to make your museum exploration a memorable experience.

Los Angeles Staycation: Exploring the Cultural Gems – LACMA and Other Museums

Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, is also a treasure trove of incredible museums that offer enriching experiences for both locals and visitors alike. If you’re planning a staycation in the vibrant city of Los Angeles as a single parent, you’ll be delighted to know that the city boasts an array of remarkable museums to explore. In this guide, we’ll take you on a captivating journey through the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and other awe-inspiring museums that will ignite your curiosity and spark your imagination. Plus, we’ll reveal the days when you can enjoy free admission to these cultural gems. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable museum adventure during your single parent staycation!

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, affectionately known as LACMA, is one of the city’s most iconic cultural institutions. With a vast collection spanning thousands of years and diverse cultures, LACMA offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, this museum showcases the world’s artistic heritage.

LACMA is open daily, except Wednesdays, and offers a range of ticket options, including discounted rates for children and students. However, the museum also provides free admission on certain days, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious single parents. As of our knowledge cutoff in September 2021, LACMA offers free general admission to all visitors on the second Tuesday of every month. Please check the museum’s official website for the most up-to-date information on admission policies and free days.

The Getty Center

Nestled in the hills overlooking Los Angeles, The Getty Center is a world-renowned museum that showcases an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photography. The museum’s architecture is a marvel in itself, with its modern design and breathtaking views of the city.

The Getty Center is free to the public every day; however, parking fees apply. As a single parent on a Los Angeles staycation, this museum provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself and your children in the world of art without worrying about admission costs.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

For those with a fascination for the natural world, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a must-visit destination. From towering dinosaur skeletons to immersive exhibits on wildlife and ecosystems, this museum offers a captivating journey through Earth’s history.

The Natural History Museum offers free admission to the public on the first Tuesday of every month. Explore the wonders of the natural world with your children, sparking their curiosity about the fascinating creatures and ecosystems that inhabit our planet.

The Broad

The Broad is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles. With its distinctive architecture collection featuring works by renowned artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, and Jeff Koons, The Broad is a cultural hotspot for art enthusiasts.

While general admission to The Broad is typically free, it’s advisable to reserve timed-entry tickets online in advance. As a single parent, take advantage of this opportunity to expose your children to contemporary art

Other Free Museums In Los Angeles + List of Free Days

• ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY – Admission is always free!
• AUTRY MUSEUM – Free admission on the second Tuesday of every month. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Autry offers free admission to active-duty
  military personnel and their families.
• CALIFORNIA AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM – Admission is always free!
• CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER – Admission is Free for main gallery exhibits. An additional ticket is required for IMAX films or to see Space Shuttle Endeavour.
• CRAFT CONTEMPORARY – Sunday they offer admission on a donation basis.
• DESCANSO GARDENS – Free admission on the third Tuesday of every month.
• GETTY CENTER – Admission is always free, you only have to pay for parking. Parking is $20; $15 after 3 pm. For evening events and on Saturdays, parking is $10 after 6 pm.
• GETTY VILLA – Admission is Free. An advance timed entry ticket is required. Parking is $20; $15 after 3 pm. For evening events, parking is $10 after 6 pm.
• GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY – Admission is free, but a fee is required to see shows in the Planetarium.
• HAMMER MUSEUM – Admission is always free
• HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS, AND BOTANICAL GARDENS – Free admission on the first Thursday of every month with the reservation of advance tickets.
• INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART LA – Admission is always free.
• LA ARBORETUM – Free admission on the third Tuesday of the month
• LA BREA TAR PITS – Visit the Tar Pits for free on the first Tuesday of each month (except for July and August.) In September, visit for free every single Tuesday. The museum also recommends making an advance ticket reservation. With ID, free admission is also offered to CA EBT cardholders, CA teachers, and active or retired military. LA County residents receive free museum admission Monday – Friday afternoons, from 3 PM – 5 PM. Just bring your ID!
• LACMA – LA residents visit free after 3 PM on Monday – Friday. All visitors can visit for free on the second Tuesday of each month. If you have a Bank of America card, you can visit for free during the first full weekend of every month. Children (12 and under) and Teens (13 – 17) residing in LA County receive free admission.  Children (12 and under) residing outside LA County receive free admission. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, general admission is free to all active-duty military personnel including National Guard and Reserve, and their families.
• LA MUSEUM OF THE HOLOCAUST – Admission is always free.
• MAK CENTER FOR ART AND ARCHITECTURE AT THE SCHINDLER HOUSE – Free on Fridays from 4 PM – 6 PM. Visit free on International Museum Day (May 18, 2019), and R.M. Schindler’s birthday (September 10).
• MOCA + GEFFEN CONTEMPORARY AT MOCA – Both MOCA and The Geffen Contemporary now offers free admission as of January 11, 2020. For special exhibits, a paid ticket may be required.
• MUSEUM OF LATIN AMERICAN ART – MOLAA offers free admission every Sunday, and the fourth Thursday of each month from 5 PM – 9 PM.
• NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM OF LOS ANGELES – Free admission on the first Tuesday of every month except July and August, and free every Tuesday in September.
• NORTON SIMON MUSEUM – Enjoy free admission at the Norton Simon Museum on the first Friday of every month from 5 PM – 8 PM.
• SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER FACEBOOK – Free admission every Thursday.
• THE BROAD MUSEUM – The Broad always offers free admission, but tickets go fast. Reserve online to make sure you get in. Plus, it’s important to know that their general admission ticket only includes their permanent collection. Check the museum’s site for any specially ticketed exhibitions they may have to go on.
• USC PACIFIC ASIA MUSEUM – Free admission the second Sunday of every month, and Thursdays from 5 PM – 8 PM.