Hammer Museum Los Angeles
A free museum in Westwood showcasing edgy contemporary art, historical works, and vibrant local exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Hammer Museum Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free museum in Westwood showcasing edgy contemporary art, historical works, and vibrant local exhibitions.
"The Hammer Museum is a free gem offering world-class art and a vibrant atmosphere, especially on Thursday nights."
🎯 Free Admission All Day!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget travelers!
📅 Check for Events
Free Thursday nights often feature live music and special programming.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Red Yarn Installation
Main Galleries
The mesmerizing red yarn art installation is a must-see, offering a unique and visually striking experience.
Contemporary Art Collections
Various Galleries
Explore edgy contemporary art and historical works, showcasing diverse and thought-provoking pieces.
Made in LA Exhibitions
Special Exhibition Spaces
Discover cutting-edge art from local Los Angeles artists, highlighting the vibrant regional art scene.
Yoshitomo Nara's Art
Special Exhibition Spaces
See the captivating works of Yoshitomo Nara, known for his iconic 'girl' paintings.
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Rewards
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission All Day!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget travelers! +1
📅 Check for Events
Free Thursday nights often feature live music and special programming. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the galleries.
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is generally allowed, but check for specific exhibit restrictions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission All Day!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget travelers! +1
📅 Check for Events
Free Thursday nights often feature live music and special programming. +1
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the galleries.
📸 Capture the Art
Photography is generally allowed, but check for specific exhibit restrictions.
🧘♀️ Mindfulness Meditation
Join free drop-in meditation sessions on Thursdays for a moment of calm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hammer Museum for its free admission and impressive collection of contemporary and historical art. Many highlight the engaging special exhibitions and the vibrant atmosphere during Thursday night events. Some find certain exhibits less impactful than others, but overall, it's considered a must-visit for art lovers in LA.
"Beautiful building but the exhibitions were not interesting. I liked the exciting step ways wall art. But the rest was not fun. Of all the arts, i liked this one the most. Loved the free entry. The resting area and the cafe was very nice. I would go back, not for art collection, but for atmosphere. Cant you find some better art work that make a vist worth while? You have to pay for parking but entrance is free"
Anna Deravi
"I went during their summer nights event. Very wonderful. They had free activities for kids and adults. People were drawing each other! Kids and adults played pingpong. There was live music; Healing Gems was my favorite set. There was also food but majority was sold out. Oh and a bar too lol. Of course there was art as well and it was wonderful. I love the Hammer Museum for it's easy layout and selection of art."
jacob andrew morales
"Just visited for the first time to attend the Alice Coltrane Monument Eternal exhibit and I am so happy I got to see it before it ended. Staff was very kind and helpful upon entry. Gallery is apart of UCLA. The Space is huge there are several levels and galleries, a restaurant and it’s located in an area where parking can be hard. There is a garage directly attached where you can park either for a rate during the week or flat fee $8 on the weekend. They do offer to validate parking as well I believe for weekdays. Museum space is super beautiful there is courtyard areas where you can sit that have nice green spaces and the gift shop is lovely. Overall I had an excellent time and spent about 2 hours enjoying the exhibit and inside the gift shop. Works were super expansive and featured artists like Jamal Cyrus, Star Feliz, Adee Roberson, Cauleen smith and many more. There were several films, sculptures, paintings and immersive works as well."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hammer Museum is located in Westwood. You can reach it via public transportation, including bus lines that serve the area. Driving is also an option, with parking available nearby, though it can be pricey.
Yes, parking is available in the adjacent underground garage. Rates vary, so check their website for current pricing.
From Santa Monica, you can take a bus route that heads inland towards Westwood. Alternatively, ride-sharing services are readily available.
Absolutely! Several bus lines stop near the museum, making it easily accessible for those relying on public transit.
The Hammer Museum is not directly served by a Metro rail station. The closest options would require a bus transfer or ride-share from a station like Expo/Sepulveda or Westwood/Rancho Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, admission to the Hammer Museum is completely free! This makes it a fantastic option for budget-conscious visitors. +1
Generally, no advance booking is required for general admission as it's free. However, for special ticketed exhibitions or events, it's always a good idea to check the museum's website.
The Hammer Museum typically opens at 11 AM and closes around 6 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 9 PM. Always verify current hours on their official website before your visit.
The Hammer Museum frequently hosts special exhibitions of contemporary and historical art. Check their website for the latest exhibition schedule. +2
The Hammer Museum is typically closed on Mondays. It's best to plan your visit for Tuesday through Sunday.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The Hammer Museum features a diverse collection, including historical works, edgy contemporary art, and rotating special exhibitions.
Absolutely! The Hammer is renowned for its focus on contemporary art and often features cutting-edge exhibitions.
The museum sometimes offers guided tours or talks related to current exhibitions. Check their schedule for availability and times.
The iconic red yarn installation is a popular and visually striking piece that many visitors seek out.
While the museum primarily focuses on adult art, some exhibits may appeal to older children. It's best to check current exhibitions for suitability.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Hammer Museum has a cafe on-site, offering a place to grab a bite or a coffee.
The museum is located in Westwood, which has a variety of restaurants and cafes catering to different tastes and budgets.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the galleries. It's best to consume food in designated areas or at the museum cafe.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually permitted in the galleries for personal use, but flash and tripods are often prohibited. Always look for signage regarding specific exhibit restrictions.
Yes, some special exhibitions may have restrictions on photography to protect the artwork. Be sure to check for any posted signs.
The iconic red yarn installation and the museum's architecture are popular spots for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable, plan for shorter visits and perhaps incorporate a stop at the museum's cafe for a snack.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond free entry, the museum's location in Westwood offers access to a variety of affordable dining options, from casual cafes to international eateries, allowing you to keep your food costs down as well.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Contemporary Art Lovers
Don't miss the opportunity to explore their permanent collection, which offers a rich historical context to the contemporary pieces.
The museum's thoughtful curation and engaging exhibition design create an immersive experience. Keep an eye on their schedule for artist talks and special lectures, which offer deeper insights into the art and the artists. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hammer Museum's Free Admission Advantage
This free access policy is particularly beneficial for students, families, and budget travelers who might otherwise be priced out of museum experiences. It fosters a welcoming atmosphere where art appreciation is the primary focus, rather than the cost of entry.
Exploring Contemporary Art at the Hammer
The museum is known for its 'Made in LA' exhibitions, which highlight the vibrant and evolving art scene within the city, offering a unique perspective on local talent. Beyond its contemporary focus, the Hammer also houses a significant permanent collection of historical works, providing a rich context for understanding artistic evolution. This blend of historical and contemporary art ensures a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors.
The museum's commitment to showcasing a wide range of artistic voices makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in the current state of art. Special Events and Programming
In addition to musical performances, the museum offers educational programs, artist talks, and mindfulness meditation sessions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit