LBMA Downtown - cars on road near buildings during daytime
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LBMA Downtown

4.4
·29 reviews·Long Beach, United States

An intimate downtown art space featuring unique exhibitions and vibrant community events, often with free admission.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunsets at LBMA evenings

Free admission, DJs, workshops!

CrowdMedium
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LBMA Downtown - cars on road near buildings during daytime

LBMA Downtown

Best Time

Sunsets at LBMA evenings

Free admission, DJs, workshops!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An intimate downtown art space featuring unique exhibitions and vibrant community events, often with free admission.

4.4
(29 reviews)

"Experience dazzling jeweled art and a lively atmosphere at this intimate downtown Long Beach gem."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check for Free Admission Days

Many visitors rave about free admission, especially during special evening events. Always check the website!

Plan for a Shorter Visit

The downtown location is intimate and has a limited selection. Perfect for a focused art experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Angie Crabtree's Bedazzled Art

Angie Crabtree's Bedazzled Art

Josephine Molina Gallery

Experience large-format oil paintings adorned with jewels that create a dazzling, eye-bending effect.

Instagram
Points of Intersection Exhibit

Points of Intersection Exhibit

Josephine Molina Gallery

Serbian-American artist Daniela Soberman's installation offers a unique visual experience.

Instagram+1
Artist Studios

Artist Studios

LBMA Downtown Campus

Explore the creative spaces of resident artists, offering a glimpse into the local art scene.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission & Special Events

Many visitors highlight free admission days and special evening events like 'Sunsets at LBMA' as major draws. Check their website for current free entry policies and upcoming events, as these can be fantastic opportunities to experience the museum with added entertainment. TikTok+1

Intimate Venue, Limited Selection

The LBMA Downtown campus is described as a 'very small' and 'intimate venue'. While this can make the art feel more immediate, some visitors note the selection is limited. Plan for a shorter visit focused on specific exhibits. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Sunsets at LBMA evenings
Why
Free admission, DJs, workshops!
Crowd
Medium
When
Downtown Art Walk evenings
Why
Extended hours, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter, more intimate viewing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Long Beach Museum of Art is a fun place to visit for art and food with a view. Exhibits change so be sure to check the website to see what is currently on display (this footage is from February 2023). It used to be free after 3pm on Thursdays but I cannot find any information confirming that it is still the cases. Tickets are $12. You can find plenty of free parking on Ocean. #longbeachartmuseum #...
@la.dreaming
253 likes • 13.2K views

Check for Free Admission Days

Many visitors rave about free admission, especially during special evening events. Always check the website! TikTok+1

Plan for a Shorter Visit

The downtown location is intimate and has a limited selection. Perfect for a focused art experience. Reddit

Love a museum morning off the beach! #LBMA #longbeach
@juanvcruz
21 likes • 484 views
THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART for your support at my first museum opening!! It was the best night ever at @lbmaorg and I’ve really enjoyed meeting so many great people, and getting the opportunity to chat about my new work. Thanks @ronlbma and @paulloya for bringing this to life 💎 If you missed the opening, you can stop by the museum until September 27th, 11am - 4pm, Thursday - Sunday at ...
angie_crabtree
0 likes • 5.7K views

Look for Special Events

From live DJs to art workshops, 'Sunsets at LBMA' and Art Walk nights are highlights. TikTok+1

Explore Artist Studios

Don't miss the chance to see where local artists create their work. Instagram

OVERLOAD extended through October 13th. Extended hours for the Downtown Long Beach Art Walk October 12, 4:00 to 8:00 pm LBMA Downtown 356 E 3rd Street Long Beach, CA 90802
chriseckertartist
117 likes • 10.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check for Free Admission Days

Many visitors rave about free admission, especially during special evening events. Always check the website! TikTok+1

Plan for a Shorter Visit

The downtown location is intimate and has a limited selection. Perfect for a focused art experience. Reddit

Look for Special Events

From live DJs to art workshops, 'Sunsets at LBMA' and Art Walk nights are highlights. TikTok+1

Explore Artist Studios

Don't miss the chance to see where local artists create their work. Instagram

Combine with Beach Visit

It's a great spot for a museum morning right off the beach! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(29 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find LBMA Downtown to be an intimate and engaging art space, particularly appreciating its free admission events and unique exhibitions like Angie Crabtree's jeweled artwork. While some note the limited selection, the friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere during special evenings like 'Sunsets at LBMA' make it a worthwhile visit for a focused art experience. InstagramReddit

"Have you been to the Long Beach Museum of Art / Downtown location? If not , you should especially since they have a great exhibit showcasing the bedazzled artwork of Angie Crabtree. We were fortunate to be invited to the premiere of her show. There are some large format oil paintings that will play with your eyesight making it think that the jewels are actually that big. Located on a corner of the LB Arts District it is hard to miss. It features an intimate venue that really makes the art come alive. See you there!"

Ricardo The Realtor

"The collections was interesting, however selection is quite limited. I was hoping there were more to see. However, staffs were S/super friendly and helpful!"

Anne Hua

"Went for a Tattoo artists exhibit. Cool but very small place"

Nicola Casadei

What People Like

Free admission events
Intimate venue
Unique exhibits

What People Dislike

Limited selection
Small space

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

LBMA Downtown is located at 356 E 3rd Street in Long Beach, CA. It's situated on a corner in the LB Arts District. Parking can be challenging in downtown Long Beach, so consider ride-sharing or public transport if possible. Instagram

Street parking is available but can be limited. Some visitors suggest being mindful of parking regulations to avoid tickets, a common tip for new Long Beach residents. Reddit

If you're exploring the Long Beach Arts District or staying nearby, walking is a great option. It's also conveniently located near the beach. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is often free, especially during special events like 'Sunsets at LBMA' or the Downtown Art Walk. However, it's always best to check the official LBMA website for the most current admission policies and any associated fees for specific exhibits. TikTok+1

Yes, many visitors report free admission, particularly during evening events and special programming. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements. TikTok+1

Hours can vary, especially for special events. For example, extended hours are offered during the Downtown Art Walk. Check the LBMA website or their social media for the most up-to-date operating hours. Instagram

For regular visits, advance booking might not be necessary due to the intimate size. However, for popular special events or if free admission is confirmed, it's wise to check if any RSVP or ticket reservation is recommended. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artwork. Always look for signage or ask museum staff if you're unsure. Instagram

The unique jewel-encrusted artwork by Angie Crabtree offers striking visual opportunities. The artist studios also provide interesting backdrops. Instagram

Angie Crabtree's 'bedazzled' paintings and Daniela Soberman's 'Points of Intersection' installation are frequently highlighted for their visual impact. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

During special evening events like 'Sunsets at LBMA,' food and drink vendors are often present, adding to the festive atmosphere. TikTok+1

Being in the heart of downtown Long Beach and the Arts District, you'll find numerous dining options nearby, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

LBMA Downtown can be a great option for families looking for a shorter, engaging art experience. The intimate setting means kids can explore without feeling overwhelmed. Special events like 'Sunsets at LBMA' often include free art workshops that are perfect for younger visitors, allowing them to get hands-on with creative activities like drawing, painting, and crafting. TikTok+1

While the exhibits themselves might cater more to adults, the overall atmosphere during these family-friendly events is lively and welcoming. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to art in a relaxed environment. Remember to check the museum's schedule for specific family-oriented programming and consider the limited space when planning your visit.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts on a Budget

For art lovers seeking quality experiences without a hefty price tag, LBMA Downtown is a gem. Many visitors highlight that admission is often free, especially during popular evening events like 'Sunsets at LBMA' and the Downtown Art Walk. TikTok+1

These events not only offer free entry but also include additional attractions like live DJs, food vendors, and free art workshops, making for a rich cultural experience. Even outside of these events, the museum's focused exhibitions and artist studios provide significant artistic value. It's a fantastic way to engage with contemporary art and local talent on a budget. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the LBMA Downtown Campus

The Long Beach Museum of Art Downtown (LBMA Downtown) offers a distinct experience from its main campus. Located at 356 E 3rd Street, this smaller venue is situated in the vibrant Long Beach Arts District. It's known for its intimate setting, making it ideal for focused viewing of curated exhibitions. Visitors often appreciate its accessibility and the opportunity to engage with art in a more personal space. Instagram

The campus is also home to five artist studios, providing a unique glimpse into the creative process of local artists. This integration of working studios with exhibition spaces fosters a dynamic environment. Special events, such as 'Sunsets at LBMA' and extended hours during the Downtown Art Walk, transform the space into a lively hub with music, workshops, and vendors, drawing significant crowds and positive feedback. TikTokInstagram+1

While the venue is praised for its engaging exhibits and community events, it's important to note that its size means the art selection is quite limited compared to larger museums. This makes it perfect for a dedicated visit to see specific shows or for a shorter, more concentrated art experience. Reddit

Must-See Exhibits and Artworks

One of the standout attractions at LBMA Downtown has been the work of Angie Crabtree. Her large-format oil paintings, famously adorned with bedazzled jewels, create a captivating optical illusion, making the gems appear larger than life. This unique approach to art has garnered significant attention and is a highlight for many visitors. Instagram

Another notable exhibition featured was 'Points of Intersection' by Daniela Soberman. This installation by the Serbian-American artist has been praised for its thought-provoking nature and visual impact. The museum's ability to host such distinct and engaging temporary exhibits contributes to its appeal. Instagram+1

Beyond specific exhibitions, the presence of artist studios offers a continuous draw. Visitors can often observe artists at work, adding an interactive dimension to their museum visit. These studios, combined with the curated galleries, showcase the breadth of artistic talent within the Long Beach community. Instagram

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