Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
A modern marvel celebrating the art, science, and cultural impact of filmmaking, from Hollywood's golden age to today.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern marvel celebrating the art, science, and cultural impact of filmmaking, from Hollywood's golden age to today.
"The film lover's Disneyland, a must-do for anyone who's ever seen a movie!"
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 3-5 hours to fully explore exhibits and catch a film screening.
Student Discount Available
Students can get a great deal on admission, making it more accessible.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Oscars Experience
Main Exhibition Galleries
Step onto a stage and hold an Oscar statuette as your name is announced! A truly memorable moment for film fans.

Studio Ghibli Exhibit
Special Exhibitions Gallery
Immerse yourself in the magical world of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli films. A must-see for animation lovers.

The Pixar Zoetrope
Level 4
Witness the magic of early animation with this incredible Toy Story-themed zoetrope. A nostalgic and captivating display.

Iconic Film Props & Costumes
Various Galleries
See original props and costumes from legendary films like The Godfather, Star Wars, and more. A treasure trove for cinephiles.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Student Savings & Special Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 3-5 hours to fully explore exhibits and catch a film screening.
Student Discount Available
Students can get a great deal on admission, making it more accessible.
Don't Miss the Zoetrope
The Toy Story Zoetrope is a mind-blowing animation experience.
Street Parking Tips
Look for street parking on Fairfax or nearby streets, minding signs and permit restrictions.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 3-5 hours to fully explore exhibits and catch a film screening.
Student Discount Available
Students can get a great deal on admission, making it more accessible.
Don't Miss the Zoetrope
The Toy Story Zoetrope is a mind-blowing animation experience.
Street Parking Tips
Look for street parking on Fairfax or nearby streets, minding signs and permit restrictions.
Catch a Film Screening
Check the schedule for unique screenings, including cult classics and 70mm prints.
Ghibli Exhibit is Magical
The Hayao Miyazaki exhibit is a deeply nostalgic and worthwhile experience.
The Dome Offers Great Views
The museum's dome provides fantastic city views from its terrace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Academy Museum for its stunning architecture, engaging exhibits, and the immersive 'Oscars Experience.' The collection of iconic film props and costumes is a major highlight, and many rave about the quality of special screenings. Some find the museum's size manageable for a few hours, while others suggest allocating more time for deeper exploration.
"The exhibits are beautifully curated, with iconic props and costumes that feel like stepping into film history. I especially enjoyed seeing the behind-the-scenes details from classic and contemporary films. The rooftop offers stunning views of the Hollywood Hills, a perfect way to end the visit. It’s a place that makes you appreciate cinema on an entirely new level."
Sandro Brljafa
"The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a must-visit for film lovers. The exhibits are beautifully curated and take you through the history of cinema — from early classics to modern films. You can see real costumes, scripts, and behind-the-scenes footage that bring the magic of movies to life. The building itself is stunning, especially the Sphere with its amazing view of LA. The only small note is that it would be great to see more original props and objects from movie sets"
Davide El Sayed Abdel Atty
"We were told that this was a great museum to visit and it certainly lived up to that reputation.
You get to see how sound is such an important aspect of film amongst others senses. You can sit in The Godfather chair. At the end dont miss out on seeing a Toy Story roundabout.
No need to buy tickets in advance we just bought them on the door.
There are many more things to see including lots of Oscars. But too many things to mention."
Chris McLaren
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Academy Museum is located in the Miracle Mile district of Los Angeles. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby, and also served by public transportation. Many visitors find street parking on nearby streets like Fairfax Avenue, but always be mindful of parking signs and restrictions, especially on Sundays when meters might not need feeding.
Rideshares are also a convenient option.The museum does have its own parking, but it can fill up quickly. Street parking is often available on surrounding streets, though some areas may be permit-only. Look for 4-hour parking meters on streets like 6th Street, and remember that yellow curbs often allow parking after 6 pm.
Always double-check signage to avoid tickets.Yes, several bus lines serve the area around the Academy Museum, making it accessible via public transport. Check local transit schedules for routes and times that best suit your travel plans.
Absolutely! If you're using a rideshare service or being dropped off by a friend, there are convenient drop-off points near the museum's entrance.
The Academy Museum is situated in a vibrant cultural area, close to LACMA, the La Brea Tar Pits, and the Petersen Automotive Museum. It's a great starting point for exploring the Miracle Mile.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission tickets for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures typically range from $25 for adults. Student and senior discounts are often available, making it more affordable for some visitors.
The 'Oscars Experience' is an additional ticketed item.Yes, purchasing your Academy Museum tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This helps you secure your preferred entry time and avoid potential queues at the ticket counter, especially during peak hours or special events.
Yes, the Academy Museum often offers discounted admission for students and seniors. Be sure to bring a valid ID to qualify for these reduced ticket prices.
The 'Oscars Experience' is a special interactive exhibit where you can step onto a stage, hold an Oscar statuette, and have your photo taken as if you've just won an award. It's an additional ticket purchase but a popular highlight for many visitors.
Yes, the Academy Museum offers various membership levels that provide benefits such as free admission, discounts on tickets and merchandise, and access to exclusive events. Membership can be a great option for frequent visitors.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 3 to 5 hours is a good amount of time to explore the Academy Museum thoroughly, including time to watch films and enjoy the exhibits.
If you're a dedicated film buff or plan to see a screening, you might want to allocate even more time.Highlights include the 'Oscars Experience,' the captivating Studio Ghibli exhibit (when available), the Pixar Zoetrope, and the extensive collection of iconic film props and costumes from movies like The Godfather and Star Wars.
Yes, the Academy Museum hosts regular film screenings, including cult classics, fan favorites, and special retrospectives, often in stunning formats like 70mm prints.
Check their schedule for upcoming events.Yes, the Academy Museum offers engaging exhibits that can appeal to families, especially those with children who are fans of animated films or iconic movie moments. The 'Oscars Experience' is also a fun interactive element.
Photography policies can vary by exhibit. While general photography is often permitted in many areas, specific exhibitions, like the Studio Ghibli exhibit, may prohibit photos to protect the artwork.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Academy Museum features dining options, including a cafe and a restaurant, offering a place to relax and refuel during your visit. These spots provide a convenient way to grab a bite without leaving the museum premises.
The dining options typically offer a range of choices, from light snacks and coffee at the cafe to more substantial meals at the restaurant. Menus can vary, but generally cater to a diverse palate.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to consume any personal snacks or drinks in designated areas or before entering the exhibition spaces.
Yes, the museum often has bar service available, particularly at its restaurant or lounge areas, allowing visitors to enjoy a drink while taking in the atmosphere.
The Miracle Mile area surrounding the Academy Museum is filled with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering numerous options for dining before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic spherical building itself, especially the dome, offers striking architectural photos.
The terrace on the upper level provides panoramic city views, perfect for capturing the Los Angeles skyline. Inside, many exhibits have visually rich displays of props and costumes.Photography policies vary by exhibit. While general photography is often allowed in many areas, some special exhibitions, like the Studio Ghibli display, may prohibit cameras to preserve the artwork.
Always look for signage indicating photography restrictions.The 'Oscars Experience' is designed for photos! You get to hold a statuette on a stage, and multiple cameras capture your moment, creating memorable souvenir pictures.
Typically, tripods and professional photography equipment are not allowed inside the museum without prior authorization. This is to ensure the safety of the exhibits and the comfort of other visitors.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful natural light, especially on the terrace. For interior shots, the museum's lighting is generally well-done, but consider visiting during less crowded times to get unobstructed shots of exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some exhibits might be more geared towards adults, the overall atmosphere is engaging. The 'Oscars Experience' provides a fun, interactive moment for the whole family to enjoy. Consider checking the museum's schedule for any family-friendly programming or screenings that might be available during your visit.
🎬 Film Buffs & Cinephiles
Don't miss the opportunity to catch a rare screening in their theaters, especially if they're showing films in formats like 70mm. The depth of information and the quality of the exhibits, including special features like the Studio Ghibli exhibit, make it a deeply rewarding experience for those who appreciate cinema on a profound level.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, the displays of props, costumes, and set designs are incredibly photogenic. While photography is restricted in some areas, many sections offer ample opportunities to capture the magic of cinema. The 'Oscars Experience' also provides a unique, albeit staged, photo opportunity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits: A Film Lover's Paradise
Beyond the tangible artifacts, the museum delves into the craft of filmmaking. Interactive displays explain the magic behind special effects, the artistry of costume design, and the nuances of screenwriting. Exhibits often highlight lesser-known aspects of movie production and celebrate diverse voices in cinema, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience for all visitors.
Don't miss temporary exhibitions, which often feature deep dives into specific directors, genres, or studios. The Studio Ghibli exhibit was a particular standout, offering a nostalgic journey into the beloved animated worlds, and the upcoming Jaws exhibition promises interactive fun and behind-the-scenes insights.
The Magic of the 'Oscars Experience'
This experience is designed to be fun and memorable, allowing you to feel the excitement of Oscar night. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a unique way to connect with the glamour and prestige of the Academy Awards. Many visitors find it to be a highlight of their trip, offering a tangible piece of Hollywood magic to take home in the form of a photograph.
While it's an extra cost, the 'Oscars Experience' is often cited as being well worth it for the sheer novelty and the chance to create a lasting memory. It’s a playful and engaging addition to the museum's more scholarly exhibits, appealing to a wide range of film enthusiasts.
Screenings and Special Events
Keep an eye on their schedule for special events, themed series, and retrospectives. They frequently host screenings of cult favorites, fan-favorite films, and even major anniversaries, like Star Wars' May the 4th celebrations. Seeing a film like 'Lawrence of Arabia' on a 70mm print at the museum is a truly immersive experience that harkens back to the golden age of cinema.
Attending a screening is a fantastic way to complement your museum visit, offering a chance to see films as they were meant to be seen and to engage with the cinematic community. It transforms the museum from a place of observation into a dynamic venue for film appreciation.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit