Orange County Museum of Art - people walking on white concrete building
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Orange County Museum of Art

4.4
·866 reviews·Costa Mesa, United States

A modern art haven in Costa Mesa, OCMA offers free admission to its impressive collection and striking architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Orange County Museum of Art - people walking on white concrete building

Orange County Museum of Art

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A modern art haven in Costa Mesa, OCMA offers free admission to its impressive collection and striking architecture.

4.4
(866 reviews)

"Free museum with beautiful art! A fun afternoon enjoying the installations."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 RSVP for Free Entry

Admission is free, but booking your spot online beforehand is recommended!

🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy

Save money by parking at South Coast Plaza and walking; it's a short, easy stroll.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Modern & Contemporary Collections

Modern & Contemporary Collections

Main Galleries

Explore thought-provoking art from 20th and 21st-century artists in a stunning architectural space.

Architectural Design

Architectural Design

Exterior and Interior

Admire the museum's impressive, modern design, a work of art in itself.

Rotating Exhibitions

Rotating Exhibitions

Various Galleries

Discover new and exciting temporary exhibits that change throughout the year, offering fresh perspectives.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission & Reservations

Enjoy the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) without an entry fee! While admission is free, it's recommended to RSVP online in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak times. TikTokInstagram+1

Parking & Accessibility

Parking can be a bit tricky. The museum's paid parking structure is convenient but can be costly. Many visitors opt for free parking at the nearby South Coast Plaza and enjoy a short walk. TikTokInstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Wed & Fri Evenings
Why
Enjoy art after work, less busy
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, but busier
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

there were only two small exhibits open today but I still had fun 😌 #ocma #orangecounty #oc #orangecountymuseumofart #yoshitomonara #costamesa #museum #thingstodo
@ryvnat
36.4K likes • 263.3K views

🎯 RSVP for Free Entry

Admission is free, but booking your spot online beforehand is recommended! TikTokInstagram

🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy

Save money by parking at South Coast Plaza and walking; it's a short, easy stroll. InstagramReddit

a day at OC Museum of Art 🎨 #orangecounty #costamesa #yoshitomonara
@janiesaisquoi
61 likes • 1.3K views
Three of Century’s art students were selected to interview for the Orange County Museum of Art’s Young Curators program (OCYC). This is a new teen program open to high school juniors and seniors during the 2024–25 school year. Students will work with museum staff and artists to learn about contemporary art and help develop an exhibition from start to finish before it opens at OCMA in June 2025. ...
sausdarts
0 likes • 3K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your museum visit with the Noguchi Garden and South Coast Plaza for a full day out. Instagram

📅 Check Hours

The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your visit accordingly! TikTokInstagram

Walkable Date in OC: -Orange County Museum of Art -Noguchi Garden -South Coast Plaza -Maggiano’s #ocdateideas #thingstodoinoc #thingstodoinla #ladateideas
drew_tillman
1K likes • 31.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 RSVP for Free Entry

Admission is free, but booking your spot online beforehand is recommended! TikTokInstagram

🅿️ Smart Parking Strategy

Save money by parking at South Coast Plaza and walking; it's a short, easy stroll. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your museum visit with the Noguchi Garden and South Coast Plaza for a full day out. Instagram

📅 Check Hours

The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your visit accordingly! TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the Architecture

Don't forget to admire and photograph the museum's stunning modern design. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.4
(866 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Orange County Museum of Art for its free admission and impressive modern architecture. While some note its smaller scale, many find the curated collections engaging and the staff welcoming. The convenience of nearby free parking and dining options at South Coast Plaza are also frequently highlighted as major benefits.

"Pretty small museum, but honestly it’s pretty good for what it showcases. i come back every now and then to see cool stuff everytime.
personally i park at the south coast mall and then walk all the way here, roughly a five minute walk, it’s not that bad since the parking is free at the mall compared to the parking structure that you have to pay for.
i was allowed to walk in, you just need to check in with the front desk when you come in."

Kaitlin L

"A very cozy scale museum. Contemporary style. Interesting to see how Richard Serra sculpture was respected in the design of this museum. A lot of surprise moments as you walk through the spaces. The exhibits were interesting. Staff are very helpful and cordial. Really well maintained."

nahid akram

"Free museum with beautiful art! This was my first visit to this museum and we had a fun afternoon enjoying the installations.

We parked one block away in the parking garage. It was $15 per vehicle. Not bad considering that the museum admission is free for everyone.

Check in was a breeze. The museum is small but there was a nice variety on display when we went."

Sharon B

What People Like

Free admission
Modern architecture
Engaging exhibits

What People Dislike

Smaller scale
Paid parking on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) is located at 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. TikTokInstagram It's easily accessible by car and is situated near the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Instagram For those looking to avoid renting a car, while Costa Mesa has some walkable areas, a car or rideshare is generally recommended for broader exploration. Reddit

While specific bus routes can vary, checking local Orange County transit schedules for routes serving Costa Mesa and the Segerstrom Center area is advisable. Many visitors find rideshares or driving to be more convenient. TikTok

From Newport Beach, you can take a scenic drive of about 15-20 minutes to OCMA in Costa Mesa. Rideshares are also readily available. TikTok

Yes, it's a very short and easy walk, approximately 5 minutes, from South Coast Plaza to the Orange County Museum of Art. InstagramReddit

The Orange County Museum of Art is located in Costa Mesa, California, near the border of Newport Beach. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, admission to the Orange County Museum of Art is completely free for all visitors! TikTokInstagram+4 It's a fantastic way to experience art without any cost. TikTok

You do not need to purchase tickets as admission is free. However, it's highly recommended to RSVP online in advance to secure your entry, especially during busy periods. TikTokInstagram+1

The museum is typically open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. TikTokInstagram+1

While admission is free, it's best to RSVP online to guarantee entry. Walk-ins may be accommodated if capacity allows, but booking ahead is the safest bet. TikTokInstagram+1

All current exhibitions at OCMA are included with free general admission. You do not need separate tickets for any of the shows. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited to protect the artwork. Always check for specific signage in each exhibition area. TikTok

While personal photography is permitted, professional photography, videography, and commercial shoots typically require prior permission and may incur fees. TikTok

The museum's striking modern architecture, including its exterior and interior spaces, offers many photogenic opportunities. The rooftop terrace also provides unique perspectives. TikTok+1

Yes, personal photography is usually allowed for special exhibits like the Pokemon one, but always be mindful of any specific rules posted for that particular exhibit. TikTok

Selfies are generally fine for personal use, as long as you are not obstructing other visitors or using flash photography. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While OCMA focuses on art, it does not currently have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options available at the adjacent South Coast Plaza. Instagram

Absolutely! The museum is located right next to South Coast Plaza, which offers a vast array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Instagram

Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside the galleries to protect the artwork. It's best to consume them outside or at designated areas if available. TikTok

South Coast Plaza offers everything from fast-casual spots like Chipotle to sit-down restaurants like Maggiano's Little Italy. Instagram

Yes, you'll find several coffee shops within South Coast Plaza, just a short walk from the museum. Instagram

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

OCMA features a collection of modern and contemporary art, with a focus on artists from the 20th and 21st centuries. They also host rotating special exhibitions. TikTokInstagram+2

The museum is described as having a cozy scale, making it manageable to explore in a few hours. It's a 53,000 sq ft space. TikTokReddit

Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website or by inquiring at the front desk upon arrival. TikTok

Yes, OCMA can be a great experience for families. While specific exhibits might appeal more to certain age groups, the free admission and engaging art make it accessible for all. TikTok

The museum boasts an impressive, modern architectural design, which is a significant draw for visitors. TikTokInstagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Orange County Museum of Art offers a welcoming environment for families. With free admission, it's an accessible outing for all ages. TikTok+1 While the exhibits are contemporary, the museum's engaging architecture and open spaces can capture children's imaginations. TikTok Consider planning your visit during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children more freedom to explore. TikTok

Look for any family-specific programming or interactive elements the museum might offer. The proximity to South Coast Plaza also means easy access to food options for picky eaters, making it a convenient choice for a family day out. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

OCMA is a dream for budget-conscious travelers, offering free admission to all its exhibitions. TikTokInstagram+4 To maximize savings, take advantage of the free parking at South Coast Plaza and enjoy the short walk to the museum. InstagramReddit This significantly cuts down on potential costs associated with visiting attractions. TikTok

Pack your own snacks or plan to dine at the numerous affordable eateries within South Coast Plaza to keep food expenses low. Instagram With free entry and smart parking choices, OCMA provides a high-value cultural experience without breaking the bank.

👫 Couples & Date Ideas

The Orange County Museum of Art provides a sophisticated and inspiring setting for a date. Its free admission makes it an accessible and enjoyable option. TikTokInstagram+1 Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Noguchi Garden or explore the shops and restaurants at South Coast Plaza for a complete date experience. Instagram The modern architecture and thought-provoking art offer plenty of conversation starters. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture of OCMA

The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) is celebrated for its striking modern architectural design. The building itself is a significant attraction, featuring a 53,000-square-foot space that includes galleries, a roof terrace, and an education center. TikTok+1 Its contemporary aesthetic, designed by Morphosis, offers a visually engaging experience even before you step into the galleries. Visitors often comment on the museum's clean lines and spacious feel, making it a beautiful backdrop for art. TikTokInstagram

The design aims to create a dynamic and inviting environment for art lovers. The integration of natural light and open spaces contributes to a pleasant visitor experience. TikTok The museum's architecture is frequently highlighted in social media content, underscoring its role as a landmark in the Costa Mesa arts scene. TikTok

Many find the museum's structure to be as captivating as the art it houses, with its unique forms and materials providing ample opportunities for photography and appreciation. TikTok

Free Admission & Value

One of the most significant draws for visitors to the Orange County Museum of Art is its free admission policy. This makes OCMA an accessible cultural destination for everyone, regardless of budget. TikTokInstagram+4 This commitment to free entry is a key factor in its popularity and frequent mentions on social media as a great free activity in Orange County. TikTok+1

While the museum itself doesn't charge an entry fee, visitors should be aware of parking costs. However, many visitors find ways to mitigate this by utilizing free parking at nearby South Coast Plaza and taking a short walk. InstagramReddit This combination of free art and affordable parking makes for a highly cost-effective outing. TikTok

The value proposition of OCMA is further enhanced by its diverse and rotating exhibitions. Visitors can return multiple times and discover new artworks and perspectives, ensuring a consistently engaging experience without repeated costs. Reddit

Exploring Costa Mesa's Arts Scene

The Orange County Museum of Art is a cornerstone of the vibrant arts scene in Costa Mesa. Situated within the 'City of the Arts,' OCMA is surrounded by other cultural institutions, including the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts. TikTokInstagram+1 This concentration of artistic venues makes Costa Mesa a prime destination for culture enthusiasts. TikTok

Visitors can easily combine a trip to OCMA with other nearby attractions. The Noguchi Garden offers a serene outdoor sculpture experience, and the extensive South Coast Plaza provides shopping and dining opportunities, creating a well-rounded day trip. Instagram This walkability and proximity to other points of interest enhance the overall visitor experience. Reddit

Costa Mesa's commitment to the arts is evident in its cultural offerings, with OCMA serving as a modern hub for contemporary art. The museum's presence contributes significantly to the city's reputation as a cultural destination in Southern California. TikTok+1

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