Los Angeles Maritime Museum, Los Angeles - a tall building with a museum sign on it's side
1 / 10

Los Angeles Maritime Museum Los Angeles

4.6
·386 reviews·Los Angeles, United States

Discover the maritime history of Los Angeles Harbor with engaging exhibits, including a popular Titanic display, and enjoy scenic waterfront views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Los Angeles Maritime Museum, Los Angeles - a tall building with a museum sign on it's side

Los Angeles Maritime Museum Los Angeles

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the maritime history of Los Angeles Harbor with engaging exhibits, including a popular Titanic display, and enjoy scenic waterfront views.

4.6
(386 reviews)

"An incredible Titanic exhibit and scenic harbor views make this a must-visit for maritime history lovers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Free Harbor Boat Tours

Check for free harbor boat tours offered by the Port of LA for a unique perspective of the maritime activity.

📸 Port of LA Photo Ops

Great viewpoints for port photography include the Wilmington Waterfront Park and under the Vincent Thomas Bridge.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Titanic Exhibit

Titanic Exhibit

Main Exhibition Hall

Step back in time with an immersive Titanic exhibit, a must-see for history buffs and fans of the iconic ship.

TikTok
Historic San Pedro Waterfront

Historic San Pedro Waterfront

Museum Exterior

Enjoy scenic views of the bustling Los Angeles Harbor and historic ships from the museum's waterfront location.

Reddit
Radio Room

Radio Room

Upstairs

Discover the fascinating world of maritime communication in the volunteer-run Radio Room, a unique glimpse into naval history.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

While some exhibits are free, special exhibitions like the Titanic display often require advance booking. Check the official website to avoid disappointment and secure your spot, especially for popular events. TikTok

Explore the Harbor Views

The museum is situated in San Pedro, offering fantastic views of the Los Angeles Harbor. Consider visiting the nearby Wilmington Waterfront Park for excellent photo opportunities of the port activity. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, good for families.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This new titanic exhibit in LA is actually incredible lol 10/10 recommend, book tickets online #la #thingstodo #museum #dateidea #losangeles #titanic #BetheReasonVisa #IntuitTouchdownDance #AEHolidayC...
@jenz_losangeles
184.1K likes • 1.5M views

🚢 Free Harbor Boat Tours

Check for free harbor boat tours offered by the Port of LA for a unique perspective of the maritime activity. Reddit

📸 Port of LA Photo Ops

Great viewpoints for port photography include the Wilmington Waterfront Park and under the Vincent Thomas Bridge. Reddit

Here are all the things you need to do in Santa Monica, Los Angeles — if you don’t wanna screw it up 💩🇺🇸 . The Santa Monica Pier is probably one of the most iconic spots in all of L.A., but trust me —...
@thetravellertwins
40.6K likes • 893.7K views
Guarda para tu viaje a LA 🎡🫶🏻 5 lugares que no te pueden faltar, al igual que @LIQUID I.V. México que me ayuda a mantenerme hidratada en estos días de viaje y tiene un nuevo sabor Durazno con zero az...
@anaymiel
22.3K likes • 262.8K views

🎟️ Book Titanic Exhibit

Book tickets online in advance for the popular Titanic exhibit to guarantee entry. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Waterfront Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the San Pedro waterfront, taking in the sights and sounds of the harbor. Reddit

reddit.com

Los Angeles Maritime Museum

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Free Harbor Boat Tours

Check for free harbor boat tours offered by the Port of LA for a unique perspective of the maritime activity. Reddit

📸 Port of LA Photo Ops

Great viewpoints for port photography include the Wilmington Waterfront Park and under the Vincent Thomas Bridge. Reddit

🎟️ Book Titanic Exhibit

Book tickets online in advance for the popular Titanic exhibit to guarantee entry. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Waterfront Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the San Pedro waterfront, taking in the sights and sounds of the harbor. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(386 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Los Angeles Maritime Museum for its engaging exhibits, particularly the popular Titanic display, and its scenic waterfront location in San Pedro. While general admission is often free, special exhibitions may incur a fee. Some find the museum's size modest, but its historical insights and harbor views make it a worthwhile stop for maritime enthusiasts.

"We went in on a rainy day to check this place out. We thoroughly enjoyed reading about all of the different kinds of ships and boats. There are a few of them on display to see as well."

Nikki Appleton

"Awesome place. $5 entry. Loves strolling through and reading some history about the area."

Travis Poe

"This maritime museum was a fabulous hidden treat to come across. Time well spent on a Sunday afternoon, most days they are open 12pm-5pm. There are two levels and an outside deck to sit and take in the view. Many model ships from different eras and countries. Lots of interesting facts are shared along with items and equipment from ships. Displays lots of great historical photos of old San Pedro. There are clean modern restrooms for patrons. Only five dollars for adults! It’s a donation based museum and it’s well worth the five bucks. Go visit and support this local maritime museum which holds much of the harbor’s history from the early 1900s! So fascinating!"

G B-S

What People Like

Engaging Titanic exhibit
Scenic harbor views
Free general admission

What People Dislike

Can be small for some
Special exhibits cost extra

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located at 1400 Nagoya Way, San Pedro, CA 90731. Driving is the most common way to reach San Pedro. Public transportation options include bus routes that serve the area, though they may require transfers. Parking is available nearby, but can be busy on weekends. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available near the Los Angeles Maritime Museum. It's advisable to check for any associated fees or time limits, especially during peak hours or events. TikTok

Absolutely! The drive along the coast towards San Pedro can be quite scenic. Consider exploring the Palos Verdes Peninsula for stunning ocean views before heading to the museum. TikTok

While direct routes can be limited, using a transit app to plan your journey with potential transfers can help. Some travelers suggest combining a bus ride with a short walk to enjoy the waterfront. TikTok

From Santa Monica, you can take the I-10 East to the I-110 South, which will lead you towards San Pedro. Alternatively, a more scenic, though longer, route involves driving along the coast via Pacific Coast Highway. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Los Angeles Maritime Museum is often free, but special exhibitions, such as the popular Titanic exhibit, may require a separate ticket purchase. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and exhibition details. TikTok

Yes, it is highly recommended to book tickets for the Titanic exhibit online in advance. This ensures you secure your spot, especially during busy periods, and avoids potential disappointment. TikTok

Museum hours can vary, so it's crucial to check the official Los Angeles Maritime Museum website before your visit. They are typically open on weekdays and weekends, but specific times can change. TikTok

Information on discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel is usually available on the museum's website. Keep an eye out for any special promotions or group rates. TikTok

Yes, the Los Angeles Maritime Museum offers event space rentals. You can inquire directly with the museum for details on availability, capacity, and rental packages for your special occasion. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum features educational exhibits on the history of the Los Angeles Harbor, maritime trade, and naval history. They often host special temporary exhibits, like the popular Titanic display. TikTok

Yes, the museum offers engaging exhibits that can be interesting for children, especially those with an interest in ships and history. The Titanic exhibit is particularly captivating for younger visitors. TikTok

The museum sometimes offers guided tours, particularly for special exhibits or historical aspects of the harbor. It's advisable to check their schedule upon arrival or on their website for availability. Reddit

For excellent photo opportunities of the Port of LA, head to the Wilmington Waterfront Park or find a spot under the Vincent Thomas Bridge. These locations offer great views without typically encountering port police. Reddit

The Radio Room upstairs is a special area, often maintained by volunteers, showcasing historical maritime communication equipment. It offers a unique and hands-on glimpse into the past. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

For stunning maritime photography, the Wilmington Waterfront Park and the area beneath the Vincent Thomas Bridge are highly recommended. These spots offer great views of the port activity and ships. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in special exhibition areas. Flash photography might be prohibited. TikTok

While you can't freely roam the operational areas of the port, public viewpoints like the Wilmington Waterfront Park and the San Pedro waterfront offer excellent, legal photo opportunities of the port. Reddit

You can capture images of massive container ships, tugboats, historic vessels, and the general industrial beauty of one of the busiest ports in the world. The bridges and waterfront architecture also make for great subjects. Reddit

If you're passionate about maritime photography, bringing a good camera is definitely worthwhile. The unique angles and scale of the port offer fantastic opportunities for dramatic shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Los Angeles Maritime Museum offers an engaging experience for families. The Titanic exhibit is a major draw and can captivate children with its dramatic story. TikTok The museum's focus on ships and harbor history provides a great educational opportunity, making learning fun. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds and allow children more space to explore. TikTok

For a broader maritime adventure, combine your museum visit with a walk along the San Pedro waterfront. The sight of large ships and the bustling port activity can be fascinating for kids. If possible, look into the free harbor boat tours offered by the Port of LA for an even more immersive experience on the water. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find the Los Angeles Maritime Museum and its surroundings to be a treasure trove of maritime imagery. The Wilmington Waterfront Park and the area under the Vincent Thomas Bridge are prime locations for capturing the industrial beauty of the Port of Los Angeles. Reddit Expect to photograph massive container ships, tugboats, and the intricate network of cranes and infrastructure. The museum itself, with its historic exhibits and waterfront setting, also offers excellent photo opportunities. TikTok

For unique shots, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for softer light. The Radio Room upstairs, if accessible, can provide interesting details and textures for close-up shots of vintage communication equipment. Reddit Remember to be respectful of any posted signage regarding photography restrictions within the museum or port areas. Reddit

🚢 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Los Angeles Maritime Museum's focus on the rich maritime heritage of the region. The permanent exhibits detailing the history of the Los Angeles Harbor offer deep insights into its development and significance. Reddit The Titanic exhibit is a must-see, providing a detailed look at one of history's most compelling maritime events. TikTok

Don't miss the Radio Room, a volunteer-run space that preserves and showcases historical communication technology. Reddit Exploring the waterfront and learning about the ships that have traversed these waters offers a tangible connection to the past. Consider checking the museum's schedule for any special lectures or events related to maritime history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Titanic Exhibit

The Los Angeles Maritime Museum's Titanic exhibit has garnered significant attention, with visitors describing it as 'incredible.' TikTok This special exhibition delves into the history of the ill-fated ship, offering a chance to learn about its construction, passengers, and tragic maiden voyage. It's a popular draw, so booking tickets online in advance is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. TikTok The exhibit provides a captivating glimpse into one of history's most famous maritime disasters.

Visitors often express awe at the scale and detail of the exhibit, making it a highlight for many. It's a perfect example of how the museum brings historical events to life for its audience. The immersive nature of the display makes it a memorable experience for all ages. TikTok

Photography Hotspots Around the Port of LA

For photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of the Los Angeles Harbor, several public vantage points offer spectacular views. The Wilmington Waterfront Park and the San Pedro waterfront beneath the Vincent Thomas Bridge are frequently recommended by locals and visitors alike. Reddit These locations provide unobstructed views of the massive container ships, cranes, and the general industrial landscape of the port, allowing for dramatic and compelling shots. You can often get quite close to the action without encountering port police, making them ideal for capturing the port's scale and activity. Reddit

Beyond these primary spots, exploring the new Wilmington Waterfront Park/Banning's Landing can also yield unique perspectives. The key is to find public access areas that offer clear sightlines into the port. While you can't just wander into restricted operational zones, these designated public areas are perfect for capturing the maritime might of Los Angeles. Remember to check for any specific photography guidelines or restrictions, though generally, personal photography is welcomed from these public spaces. Reddit

The Role of the Radio Room

A unique and often overlooked gem within the Los Angeles Maritime Museum is the Radio Room, located upstairs. This area is a testament to the dedication of volunteers who maintain and operate historical maritime communication equipment. Reddit It offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of ship-to-shore communication, a critical element of maritime safety and operations throughout history.

Visiting the Radio Room provides an opportunity to learn about the technology that connected ships at sea with the rest of the world. It’s a hands-on experience that brings the past to life, showcasing the ingenuity and challenges of early radio operations. The passion of the volunteers often shines through, making it a truly engaging part of a museum visit. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2