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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Orange County Museum of Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern art haven in Costa Mesa, OCMA offers free admission to its impressive collection and striking architecture.
"Free museum with beautiful art! A fun afternoon enjoying the installations."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Modern & Contemporary Collections
Main Galleries
Explore thought-provoking art from 20th and 21st-century artists in a stunning architectural space.

Architectural Design
Exterior and Interior
Admire the museum's impressive, modern design, a work of art in itself.

Rotating Exhibitions
Various Galleries
Discover new and exciting temporary exhibits that change throughout the year, offering fresh perspectives.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Reservations
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your museum visit with the Noguchi Garden and South Coast Plaza for a full day out.
📅 Check Hours
The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your visit accordingly!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your museum visit with the Noguchi Garden and South Coast Plaza for a full day out.
📅 Check Hours
The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your visit accordingly!
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't forget to admire and photograph the museum's stunning modern design.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) is located at 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
It's easily accessible by car and is situated near the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. 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.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.
From Newport Beach, you can take a scenic drive of about 15-20 minutes to OCMA in Costa Mesa. Rideshares are also readily available.
Yes, it's a very short and easy walk, approximately 5 minutes, from South Coast Plaza to the Orange County Museum of Art.
The Orange County Museum of Art is located in Costa Mesa, California, near the border of Newport Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, admission to the Orange County Museum of Art is completely free for all visitors!
It's a fantastic way to experience art without any cost.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.
The museum is typically open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
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.
All current exhibitions at OCMA are included with free general admission. You do not need separate tickets for any of the shows.
📸 📸 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.
While personal photography is permitted, professional photography, videography, and commercial shoots typically require prior permission and may incur fees.
The museum's striking modern architecture, including its exterior and interior spaces, offers many photogenic opportunities. The rooftop terrace also provides unique perspectives.
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.
Selfies are generally fine for personal use, as long as you are not obstructing other visitors or using flash photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
South Coast Plaza offers everything from fast-casual spots like Chipotle to sit-down restaurants like Maggiano's Little Italy.
Yes, you'll find several coffee shops within South Coast Plaza, just a short walk from the museum.
🎫 💡 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.
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.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website or by inquiring at the front desk upon arrival.
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.
The museum boasts an impressive, modern architectural design, which is a significant draw for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks or plan to dine at the numerous affordable eateries within South Coast Plaza to keep food expenses low. With free entry and smart parking choices, OCMA provides a high-value cultural experience without breaking the bank.
👫 Couples & Date Ideas
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of OCMA
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. The museum's architecture is frequently highlighted in social media content, underscoring its role as a landmark in the Costa Mesa arts scene.
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.
Free Admission & Value
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. This combination of free art and affordable parking makes for a highly cost-effective outing.
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.
Exploring Costa Mesa's Arts Scene
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. This walkability and proximity to other points of interest enhance the overall visitor experience.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit