The best museums in Los Angeles in September 2025

These are the top 50 best museums in Los Angeles, United States, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2025. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Los Angeles, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Los Angeles.

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Looking for the best museums in Los Angeles? These are the best ones:

  1. Dodger Stadium1

    Dodger Stadium

     Los Angeles, CA
  2. Online discount!Aquarium of the Pacific2

    Aquarium of the Pacific

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Aquarium of the Pacific, previously known as the Pacific Aquarium of Long Beach, is a public aquarium that spans 5 acres in Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach, California. This location is a significant attraction in the United States, offering a wide range of marine life exhibits and educational programs.
  3. The Getty Center3

    The Getty Center

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Getty Center, situated in Brentwood, a district in the west of Los Angeles, serves as the headquarters of the J. Paul Getty Trust. Since 1997, it has been home to the majority of the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection. This makes it a significant location for those interested in exploring a vast array of art pieces.
  4. BMO Stadium4

    BMO Stadium

     Los Angeles, CA
  5. The Hollywood Museum5

    The Hollywood Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Hollywood Museum is situated in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on North Highland Avenue. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the Hollywood history, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
  6. Grammy Museum6

    Grammy Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Grammy Museum is a unique destination that offers an interactive and educational experience dedicated to the history and winners of the Grammy Awards. It provides a deep dive into the world of music, from the creative process to the technology of recording, and the history of the prestigious Grammy Awards. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including behind-the-scenes live performances, seminars, classes, and musician meet-and-greets.
  7. Page Museum - La Brea Tar Pits7

    Page Museum - La Brea Tar Pits

     Los Angeles, CA
    The La Brea Tar Pits is an area in the American city of Los Angeles where asphalt seeps from the ground to the surface. This unique geological phenomenon has led to the area being designated as a park. The tar pits are a fascinating sight to behold, with the asphalt appearing to bubble up from the ground.
  8. The Getty Villa Museum8

    The Getty Villa Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Getty Villa, located in Pacific Palisades, is one of the two sites of the J. Paul Getty Museum. This site is dedicated to the museum's antiquities collection, offering visitors a chance to explore a vast array of ancient artifacts. The villa itself is a recreation of the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, providing a unique backdrop for the museum's collection.
  9. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County9

    Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, located in Los Angeles, California, is the largest natural history museum in the western United States. Its extensive collections include nearly 35 million specimens and artifacts that span 4.5 billion years of history. This vast collection provides a comprehensive view of the natural world and human history, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in natural history and culture.
  10. Madame Tussaud's10

    Madame Tussaud's

     Los Angeles, CA
    Madame Tussauds Hollywood is a renowned wax museum situated on the famous Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. This location is the ninth installment of the Tussauds franchise, which was established by the talented sculptor Marie Tussaud. The museum is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique opportunity to see lifelike wax figures of famous celebrities.
  11. The Broad Museum11

    The Broad Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Broad is a contemporary art museum situated in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Named after its primary financiers, Eli and Edythe Broad, the museum is a significant cultural landmark in the city. It showcases a diverse range of contemporary art, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.
  12. California Science Center12

    California Science Center

     Los Angeles, CA
    The California Science Center, located in Los Angeles, California, is the largest science museum in the western United States. It is situated in Exposition Park, adjacent to the campus of the University of Southern California. Established in 1951, the museum was originally known as the California Museum of Science and Industry before it was renamed in 1998.
  13. Online discount!Battleship Uss Iowa13

    Battleship Uss Iowa

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a maritime museum situated at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro, Los Angeles, California. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore a significant piece of naval history in a vibrant and bustling port setting.
  14. Hollywood Wax Museum14

    Hollywood Wax Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Hollywood Wax Museum is a unique attraction located on Hollywood Boulevard in the tourist district of Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. It features wax replicas of various celebrities, offering visitors a chance to see lifelike representations of their favorite stars. The museum also has other locations in Myrtle Beach, Branson, and Pigeon Forge, making it accessible to a wider audience.
  15. Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles15

    Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles

     Los Angeles, CA
  16. Museum of Death16

    Museum of Death

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Museum of Death, located on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, Los Angeles, and New Orleans, was established in June 1995 by J. D. Healy and Catherine Shultz. The founders' stated goal for the museum is "to make people happy to be alive." This unique museum offers a different perspective on life and death, aiming to provide visitors with a deeper appreciation of their own lives.
  17. Los Angeles Zoo17

    Los Angeles Zoo

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, founded in 1966, is a 133-acre park located in the city of Los Angeles, Southern California. The city of Los Angeles owns the entire zoo, its land, facilities, and animals. It offers a unique combination of a zoo and botanical gardens, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore a diverse range of animal species and plant life in one location.
  18. Guinness World Records Museum18

    Guinness World Records Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    Come here to learn about anything that broke a record at some point. Anything largest, smallest, best or worst - you'll learn all about it here in the middle of Hollywood. You can buy your tickets online and avoid queues and the best souvenir to get here is definitely the Guinness World Records book
  19. Los Angeles County Museum of Art19

    Los Angeles County Museum of Art

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, often abbreviated as LACMA, is a prominent museum located on Wilshire Boulevard in the Hancock Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other notable landmarks, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.
  20. Eames House20

    Eames House

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Eames House, also known as Case Study House No. 8, is a significant architectural monument located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles. The house is situated at 203 North Chautauqua Boulevard, in close proximity to the Pacific coast. This location offers visitors a unique blend of architectural history and scenic beauty.
  21. Holocaust Museum LA21

    Holocaust Museum LA

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Holocaust Museum Los Angeles, also known as Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust (LAMH or LAMOTH), is situated in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the city's cultural landscape.
  22. Lummis Home22

    Lummis Home

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Lummis House, also known as El Alisal, is a unique example of Rustic American Craftsman architecture. It was built by Charles Fletcher Lummis, a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The stone house stands as a testament to Lummis's craftsmanship and his love for the rustic aesthetic. It's a fascinating place to visit for those interested in architecture, history, or the life and work of Charles Fletcher Lummis.
  23. Doheny Mansion23

    Doheny Mansion

     Los Angeles, CA
    Chester Place, one of the first gated communities in Los Angeles, California, is known for its historical significance and its close proximity to the University of Southern California. It was home to prestigious residents, including Edward L. Doheny, a prominent figure in the American oil industry. The community's location and its historical residents make it an interesting destination for tourists interested in the history of Los Angeles.
  24. Point Fermin Lighthouse24

    Point Fermin Lighthouse

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Point Fermin Light is a historic lighthouse located on Point Fermin in San Pedro, California. It was constructed in 1874 using lumber from California redwoods, a type of tree known for its longevity and resilience. This lighthouse stands as a testament to the maritime history of the region and the architectural prowess of the time.
  25. Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 3025

    Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30

     Los Angeles, CA
    Fire Station No. 30, Engine Company No. 30 is a historic fire station and engine company located in the South Los Angeles area of Los Angeles, California. This site holds significant historical value as it was one of the first all-black segregated fire stations in Los Angeles. It was segregated in 1924 and remained so until 1956 when the Los Angeles Fire Department was integrated.
  26. Japanese American National Museum26

    Japanese American National Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Japanese American National Museum is situated in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Specifically, it is nestled in the vibrant Little Tokyo area, which is conveniently located near downtown. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the city.
  27. Museum of Tolerance27

    Museum of Tolerance

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Museum of Tolerance-Beit HaShoah, located in Los Angeles, California, is a multimedia museum that aims to explore racism and prejudice globally, with a particular emphasis on the history of the Holocaust. This museum provides an opportunity for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of these significant historical events and their impact on the world.
  28. Petersen Automotive Museum28

    Petersen Automotive Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Petersen Automotive Museum is situated on Wilshire Boulevard, along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile neighborhood of Los Angeles. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other cultural attractions, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.
  29. Forest Lawn Memorial-Park29

    Forest Lawn Memorial-Park

     Los Angeles, CA
    Forest Lawn Memorial Park – Hollywood Hills is one of the six Forest Lawn cemeteries in Southern California. It is situated at 6300 Forest Lawn Drive in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting spot for tourists to visit.
  30. Griffith Observatory30

    Griffith Observatory

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Griffith Observatory is a renowned planetarium and observatory located on Hollywood Mountain in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This iconic location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the cosmos and learn about the universe. The observatory is a significant part of Los Angeles' cultural and scientific heritage, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in astronomy and space exploration.
  31. Chinese American Museum31

    Chinese American Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Chinese American Museum (CAM) is a significant cultural institution located in Downtown Los Angeles. It forms part of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, a site that holds great historical significance. The museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and experiences of Chinese Americans in California, making it the first of its kind in Southern California.
  32. The Nethercutt Museum32

    The Nethercutt Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Nethercutt Collection, an automobile museum in the USA, was founded by Jack Nethercutt and his wife Dorothy. The museum opened its doors to the public in August 1972, offering a unique insight into the history and evolution of automobiles.
  33. Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Hollywood33

    Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Hollywood

     Los Angeles, CA
  34. Watts Towers34

    Watts Towers

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Watts Towers, located in the Watts district of Los Angeles, California, are a unique example of architecture. They were built by Italian immigrant Sabato “Simon” Rodia in his spare time over a period of 33 years, from 1921 to 1954. The towers are made up of 17 structures made from scrap, trash, and concrete, reaching a height of 30 meters (99 feet) at their highest point.
  35. Los Encinos State Historic Park35

    Los Encinos State Historic Park

     Los Angeles, CA
    Los Encinos State Historic Park is a significant part of California's state park system, dedicated to preserving the historic buildings of Rancho Los Encinos. The park offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. It is an ideal destination for those interested in history, architecture, and nature.
  36. Medieval Torture Museum36

    Medieval Torture Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
  37. California African American Museum37

    California African American Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The California African American Museum (CAAM) is a cultural institution situated in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, California, United States. It is a museum dedicated to the enrichment and education of the cultural heritage and history of African Americans, with a particular emphasis on California and the western United States.
  38. Heritage Square Museum38

    Heritage Square Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Heritage Square Museum is a unique open-air museum situated in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the development of California architecture from the time of the American Civil War to the early 20th century. This museum is a testament to the architectural evolution of the region and provides an immersive experience for visitors interested in history and architecture.
  39. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium39

    Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, located in San Pedro, Los Angeles, California, is a public aquarium operated by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks. This aquarium is dedicated to the interpretation of the marine biology and oceanography of Southern California through various displays and educational programs.
  40. El Pueblo de Los Ángeles40

    El Pueblo de Los Ángeles

     Los Angeles, CA
    El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, also known as Los Angeles Plaza Historic District, is a historic district located in the oldest section of Los Angeles. This area was the city's center under Spanish, Mexican, and United States rule through most of the 19th century. The district was designated a state historic monument in 1953 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
  41. Museum of Jurassic Technology41

    Museum of Jurassic Technology

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Museum of Jurassic Technology, established in 1989, is situated in Los Angeles. This unique museum presents a blend of mostly fictional natural objects or objects from the fringes of art and science, often interpreted as an artistic installation, superfiction, or as a critique of institutions or science.
  42. Hammer Museum42

    Hammer Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Hammer Museum, also known as the Armand Hammer Museum of Art and Cultural Center or UCLA Hammer Museum, is an art museum located in the Westwood district of Los Angeles, California. It is operated by the UCLA School of Arts and Architecture of the University of California. The museum was founded by Armand Hammer, the then CEO of the Occidental Petroleum Corporation, in November 1990.
  43. Travel Town Museum43

    Travel Town Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    Travel Town Museum is a railway museum situated in the northwest corner of Los Angeles, California's Griffith Park. The museum was officially opened on December 14, 1952, and has since been a significant attraction for railway enthusiasts and tourists alike. It offers a unique insight into the history of railroad transportation in the western United States, particularly in Southern California and the Los Angeles area.
  44. Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Memorial44

    Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Memorial

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and Memorial is situated at a historic location, Old Engine Co. No. 27, also known as Fire Station No. 27, on Cahuenga Boulevard in Hollywood. This location is not only a museum but also a memorial, offering a unique blend of history and tribute to the brave firefighters of Los Angeles.
  45. Hollywood Heritage Museum45

    Hollywood Heritage Museum

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Hollywood Heritage Museum, also known as the Hollywood Studio Museum, is a museum that was established on December 13, 1985. It is dedicated to the early days of Hollywood cinema and is located not far from the Hollywood Bowl. The museum is housed in Hollywood's first film studio, the Lasky-DeMille Barn, named after its former tenants, Jesse L. Lasky and Cecil B. DeMille.
  46. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures46

    Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Saban Building, previously known as the May Company Building, is a renowned example of Streamline Moderne architecture. This architectural style is characterized by its emphasis on curving forms, long horizontal lines, and sometimes nautical elements. The building is also recognized as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, a designation that acknowledges its significant contribution to the cultural heritage of the city. Since 2021, the Saban Building has been the home of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, making it a key destination for film enthusiasts and tourists alike.
  47. Autry Museum of the American West47

    Autry Museum of the American West

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Autry Museum of the American West, located in Los Angeles, California, is a cultural institution dedicated to exploring the diverse history of the American West. Established in 1988, the museum offers a variety of exhibitions and public programs such as lectures, films, theater performances, festivals, family events, and music. In addition to these, the museum also engages in scholarship, research, and educational outreach.
  48. Online discount!
    48

    World of Illusions

     Los Angeles, CA
  49. UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden49

    UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden, located on the southeastern corner of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) campus, spans across 7 acres and houses over 3,000 species of plants. This vast collection of flora offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about a wide variety of plant species in one location.
  50. Skirball Cultural Center50

    Skirball Cultural Center

     Los Angeles, CA
    The Skirball Cultural Center houses a museum that hosts a variety of activities. These include regularly changing exhibitions, film events, music and theater performances, comedy shows, family activities, and literary and cultural programs. The diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests, making it a versatile destination for visitors.

All museums in Los Angeles