MOCA Grand Avenue Los Angeles
Iconic contemporary art museum in DTLA, showcasing post-1940 multimedia works with free general admission.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
MOCA Grand Avenue Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic contemporary art museum in DTLA, showcasing post-1940 multimedia works with free general admission.
"A must-visit for free, world-class contemporary art in the heart of Downtown LA!"
🎟️ Grab Free Tickets Online
General admission is free, but booking your timed ticket online in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the galleries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Contemporary Collection
Main Galleries
Explore groundbreaking multimedia works from 1940 to the present, showcasing diverse artistic expressions.
Architectural Marvel
Exterior and Interior
Admire the striking architecture of the museum itself, a work of art designed by Arata Isozaki.
Rotating Exhibitions
Special Exhibition Halls
Discover thought-provoking temporary exhibits that bring fresh perspectives to the contemporary art scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Two Locations
Combine with DTLA Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Grab Free Tickets Online
General admission is free, but booking your timed ticket online in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the galleries.
📸 Capture the Art (Respectfully)
Photography is often allowed for personal use, but always check signage and be mindful of other visitors.
🚶♀️ Explore the DTLA Area
Combine your museum visit with nearby attractions like The Broad or Grand Central Market for a full day out.
Of the two locations for MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art), which do you prefer and why?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Grab Free Tickets Online
General admission is free, but booking your timed ticket online in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the galleries.
📸 Capture the Art (Respectfully)
Photography is often allowed for personal use, but always check signage and be mindful of other visitors.
🚶♀️ Explore the DTLA Area
Combine your museum visit with nearby attractions like The Broad or Grand Central Market for a full day out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise MOCA Grand Avenue for its free admission and impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum's striking architecture and convenient downtown location are also frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find the free admission a bit crowded at times, and occasionally special exhibitions can have separate fees.
"Such an inspiring museum in the heart of LA. And it's FREE! Loved all of it. You can see pretty much everything in under 2h. Highly recommended if you like modern art. Burning Man vibes!"
Oriol Nieto
"This place isn’t for kids the art is very complex . They have a family booklet to be interactive with children but it’s to complex. The security or people taking care of the art are rude and definitely don’t know how to interact either kids . If my niece and nephew laughed about something they saw or heard they would get a stare and I did glare back. Just because it’s art you can be kind and smile . People are trying to come in learn and feel welcome . The art is interesting but yeah not much to say about a good experience. Adults might like it somewhat but this is nothing compared to The Broad . All the security and staff was nothing but kind , polite, and kind with lots of love for children and families."
Katherine Sanchez
"Fabulous museum. I was blown away that entry was free! My handbag was placed in a locker & I was given a number tag for it. The exhibits were diverse and interesting. My favourite was the piano. I would love to have been able to see it being created!"
Di Chesmar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
MOCA Grand Avenue is easily accessible by public transportation in Downtown LA. Many bus lines stop nearby, and it's a short walk from several Metro Rail stations. Parking is available in nearby garages, but can be pricey.
Yes, MOCA Grand Avenue is accessible via the Metro B (Red) Line and D (Purple) Line to the Civic Center/Grand Park station, or the Metro A (Blue) Line and E (Expo) Line to the Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill station.
For a scenic and affordable option, consider using public transportation. TikTok creators often highlight using buses or the Metro to navigate DTLA efficiently.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off directly at or very near the museum's entrance on Grand Avenue.
Several parking garages are located around MOCA Grand Avenue. While convenient, be prepared for potentially high parking fees in the downtown area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, general admission to MOCA Grand Avenue is free for all visitors. It's a fantastic free activity in DTLA!
While admission is free, it's highly recommended to book your timed entry tickets online in advance, especially during peak times, to guarantee your entry.
MOCA Grand Avenue typically opens at 11 AM and closes around 5 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8 PM. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
Special exhibitions may require a separate ticket or an additional fee, even if general admission is free. Check the MOCA website for details on current exhibitions.
MOCA has two downtown locations: Grand Avenue and The Geffen Contemporary. Each location may have its own admission policies, though general admission to Grand Avenue is free.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal, non-commercial use is generally permitted in the permanent collection galleries. However, flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always look for signage.
Yes, special exhibitions often have stricter photography policies, and some artworks may be protected from photography. Be sure to observe all posted signs.
The museum's unique architecture, both inside and out, offers fantastic photo opportunities. The outdoor spaces and the grand atrium are popular spots.
Yes, phone cameras are generally allowed for personal use, provided you follow the museum's photography guidelines.
Video recording is typically not allowed in the galleries. Check with museum staff if you have specific questions about recording.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
MOCA Grand Avenue focuses on art produced since 1940, featuring a diverse range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installations.
To fully appreciate the collection and any special exhibitions, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you're combining it with other DTLA sights, you could spend a full day.
MOCA sometimes offers guided tours or talks, especially for special exhibitions. Check their website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for schedules.
While MOCA Grand Avenue may not have a full-service restaurant, there are often cafes or snack bars available, and many dining options are nearby in Downtown LA.
MOCA Grand Avenue houses the museum's main collection and administrative offices, while The Geffen Contemporary, located a walk downhill, often hosts larger-scale installations and exhibitions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on specific pieces or themes that might capture a child's imagination. Many families find it helpful to plan a shorter visit to avoid overwhelming younger ones. Afterwards, you can explore nearby family-friendly spots like Grand Park or Grand Central Market for a bite to eat.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your savings, utilize public transportation to get to Downtown LA, as parking can be expensive.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Aficionados
For a deeper dive, consider checking MOCA's website for any available artist talks or curator-led tours that might coincide with your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating MOCA's Downtown Presence
The Geffen Contemporary, located a bit further down in the Little Tokyo area, is a larger, more industrial space often used for ambitious installations and major exhibitions that require significant room. While both are part of MOCA, they offer distinct experiences. Visitors often recommend visiting both if time allows, as they showcase different facets of contemporary art.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to check the MOCA website for the specific exhibitions and hours at each location. While general admission to MOCA Grand Avenue is free, special exhibitions at either site might have separate ticketing requirements.
Making the Most of Free Admission
This free access also makes MOCA a perfect starting point for a day of exploring Downtown LA. Many visitors combine their art experience with nearby attractions like The Broad museum, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or the vibrant Grand Central Market, creating a rich cultural itinerary without significant cost.
Photography at MOCA Grand Avenue
However, it's essential to be aware of the rules. Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are typically prohibited to protect the artworks and ensure a comfortable viewing experience for everyone. For special exhibitions, photography policies can be more restrictive, and some pieces may be off-limits. Always look for posted signs or ask museum staff if you're unsure.
Many visitors find the museum's exterior and interior architecture to be as photogenic as the art itself. The grand atrium and the building's unique lines offer excellent opportunities for striking photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit