Why are Los Angeles museums offering free admission until January 17

In the wake of the devastating Eaton Fire in Altadena, which has scorched over 14,000 acres and is only 27% contained, cultural institutions across Southern California are stepping up to provide solace and inspiration to the affected communities. Various cultural venues, including the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the La Brea Tar Pits Museum, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), are granting complimentary entry to visitors until January 17, 2025. This gesture is intended to provide a sense of respite and connection with nature and cultural heritage, alongside engaging indoor experiences for various audiences.

Details of the Free Admission Offer

The Natural History Museum and the La Brea Tar Pits Museum are extending their free admission to all visitors through January 17. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to equity, accessibility, and inclusion, aiming to serve the diverse community of Los Angeles. Free admission is also available to NHMLAC members, LA County residents from Monday to Friday between 3-5 pm, California PreK-12 teachers and school staff with ID, active or retired United States military personnel with ID, CA EBT cardholders with ID, ADA caregivers accompanying a guest, USC students and faculty with ID, and children aged 2 and under. It’s important to note that while general admission is free, additional tickets must be purchased for special exhibitions and experiences such as the 3D theater or the Butterfly and Spider Pavilion.

Similarly, LACMA, the largest art museum in the western United States, is offering free admission through January 17. LACMA’s collection includes nearly 130,000 objects, ranging from antiquity to the present, and encompasses the geographic world and nearly the entire history of art. The museum is also waiving parking fees during this period. This gesture is part of LACMA’s ongoing efforts to make art accessible to all, with free admission available to LA County residents with ID on weekdays after 3 pm and to active-duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Additional Opportunities for Free Cultural Experiences

Beyond these specific museums, Los Angeles offers a plethora of opportunities for free cultural experiences. The Broad Museum, known for its contemporary art collection, always provides free admission and is reopening on January 14 after a temporary closure. Other notable institutions offering free admission on select days include the Museum of Latin American Art, the USC Pacific Asia Museum, the Autry Museum of the American West, and the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden. These venues provide a diverse array of experiences, from modern and contemporary Latin American art to extensive collections of Native American artifacts and rare botanical species.
The Natural History Museum and La Brea Tar Pits are also bringing their engaging Mobile Museums to emergency youth camps set up in response to the fires, ensuring that even those unable to visit the museums in person can benefit from these cultural offerings. This outreach underscores the commitment of these institutions to serve their community, particularly during challenging times.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles, a city renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, offers a multitude of opportunities for both occasional and expert travelers. For those visiting the city, taking advantage of free museum days is an excellent way to explore the rich tapestry of art and history that Los Angeles has to offer. Consider planning your visit around these free admission days to maximize your cultural experience without breaking the bank.

For seasoned travelers, delving deeper into the city’s lesser-known cultural gems can provide a more nuanced understanding of Los Angeles’s diverse heritage. Explore the smaller, specialized museums and cultural centers that often host unique exhibitions and events, offering insights into the city’s multifaceted identity.

In conclusion, the free admission initiative by Los Angeles museums not only provides a much-needed respite for those affected by the recent fires but also highlights the city’s commitment to making culture accessible to all. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these opportunities allow you to engage with the city’s rich cultural landscape, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art and history that define Los Angeles.