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Los Angeles Museums aren’t the first attractions you think of visiting, when coming for a vacation. However, I do believe you should at least include one museum in your itinerary. While LA isn’t really known for its museums, there are some phenomenal and unique museums here.

The grounds of the museums are worth visiting in itself and offer wonderful outdoor exhibits. There are also some nice museum cafes and lounges. You don’t have to go inside the museums to have a nice experience.

I’ve already mentioned one of my favorite museums in the Griffith Park section. That being The Autry National Center. Here are some of my other fave museums you should consider.

Getty Center

One of two J. Paul Getty Museums. Everyone knows this world famous museum. You don’t even have to enjoy art to enjoy this museum. People come here to enjoy the architecture, the magnificent views, the beautiful gardens, the open spaces, the romantic cafe, oh and then, there’s the artwork! 1200 Getty Center Drive, LA 90049

Getty Villa

This is the smaller museum, located on Pacific Coast Highway. It’s in Malibu, about 30 minutes away from the larger Getty Center. Amazing views of the Pacific Ocean from this Italian villa modeled museum. Unique collections of beautiful art and antiquities. Museum is free, parking is not. 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu 90272

La Brea Tar Pits

One of the most interesting museums you may ever visit. Located on Museum Row right at the center of Miracle Mile in Los Angeles. This museum is focused on a group of tar pits and all the ice age fossils found in them. Thousand year old bones have been found and excavated from these tar pits. You can witness all the action.

This may be my favorite museum in Los Angeles. I have so many fond memories and learned so much as child. I have brought my daughter here many times and she loves it. We continue to come here and picnic outside, by the tar pits. Definitely a unique experience. 5801 Wilshire Blvd, LA 90036

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

While you’re at The La Brea Tarpits, take a stroll, up the street to LACMA and check out their grounds. They have a few interesting outdoor exhibits including the Urban Lights installation and The Levitated Mass. Both are great photo opportunities. There’s also a nice outdoor cafe and bar.

LACMA offers some amazing exhibits year round. One of my all time favorites being the Van Gogh exhibit. Also, they have a yearly Halloween Masquerade Ball. I visit this museum quite often for various occasions. 5905 Wilshire Blvd. LA 90036

The Grammy Museum

If you happen to be in Downtown Los Angeles, for whatever reason or just a big music fan, definitely stop by The Grammy Museum. Located in the heart of L.A. Live, next to Staples Center. A wonderful museum dedicated to the history of all forms of music and Grammy Awards that have been won.

There are four floors of exhibits including Grammy photos, listening booths, a gallery dedicated to songwriters and educational, interactive exhibits, as well as special temporary exhibits. You’ll also find displays of music artifacts, costumes and instruments related to the Grammy Awards. A full day of music reminiscing can be spent here! 800 W. Olympic Blvd. LA, 90015

California Science Center

This museum is considered to be the west coast’s biggest hands-on Science Center. That’s why California Science Center is the go to Museum for families with children. The exhibits are always fun and interesting. The most popular exhibit being the space shuttle, The Endeavour, is a big attraction, literally!

They have special exhibits year round and some exhibits get booked up, well in advance. So, if you’re planning on checking out The Science Center, while you’re in LA, be sure to reserve a time slot online. This Museum is a don’t miss! 700 Exposition Park Drive, LA 90037