The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles image

The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles

Museum Modern art museum

Iconic contemporary art museum with a vast collection of multimedia works produced since 1940. People often mention museum, MOCA, contemporary, free, pieces, artists, exhibitions, Free, collection, time,


Address

250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Website

www.moca.org

Contact

+1 213-626-6222

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 11 am to 5 pm
  • Saturday: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 11 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 11 am to 5 pm
  • Thursday: 11 am to 8 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (25) MOCA (20) contemporary (15) free (14) pieces (10) artists (10) exhibitions (8) Free (8) collection (8) time (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Christopher R. 2 years ago on Google
    Well known contemporary art museum in the middle of downtown. Right now it's free (with online reservations required), so you can't beat the value! The exhibitions are pretty much what you'd expect from a modern art museum. It's got more of an emphasis on drawings, paintings and photos rather than installations, but there are some sculptures and experiential pieces as well. I slightly prefer the Broad across the street for that reason, but if you're really into art you'll still get a lot out of it. If you're breezing through, you'll be done in thirty minutes. An hour is plenty of time to budget for a visit. Come check it out.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Adam M. 2 years ago on Google
    This museum has nothing that's worth coming here to see. I walked through their entire half of the museum that's open in about 10 minutes. Saw only 2 things that I liked. It felt like it took longer to get in. You have to stop and check in with 3 different attendants before you get in. Proof of vaccination and ID required and masks inside. Need a reservation also that's somehow sold out during certain hours. If you're thinking about coming here and making a reservation don't do it trust me. Big waste of time.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Janette O. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice small showcase of modern art. Favorite was a Mondrian and piece by Yoko Ono. Also a witch tent and sculptures.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joe R. 7 months ago on Google • 341 reviews
    Pretty awesome art museum. Not a big one but does have a good bit to enjoy. Free as well. So definitely worth checking out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kay M. 2 years ago on Google
    It’s free right now, but you do need a reservation. Luckily we got in as a walk in. It’s so spacious inside which really gives you room to focus on that piece of art you’re looking at. Definitely a place to stop by for about an hour or two.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Michael P. 8 months ago on Google • 7 reviews
    Junk art. Not even a good laugh. Probably the worst gallery I've been to. These artists have never been told NO in life. No creativity. Anti-art elitism.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tommy T. 11 months ago on Google
    Small and unique! Highly recommended to checkout if you are around’
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 CHI 2 years ago on Google
    Love MOCA! I came for Mark Rothko’s painting. Also, I was so impressed by Alberto Giacometti’s artwork. * Vaccine Card is required!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Bree M. 8 months ago on Google • 123 reviews
    It's free,it's convenient, and it's only 40 minutes to walk the whole loop. The Rothko, etc in the first room are the highlight. Park for $9 flat fee at the Walt Disney Concert Hall nearby.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Ian T. 9 months ago on Google • 48 reviews
    Booked free online tickets for my family and I, for Thursday August 10th. Excited to witness L.A. contemporary art as we are visiting from Canada and we were not disapointed. The only thing that spoiled the entire occasion, was the sneery, sarcastic, rude, disgusting behavior of the two "ladies" dealing with scanning our QR code at the MOCA front entrance. Maybe it was because we booked late in the day at 7pm and they had a long day, but if the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles wants to continue to promote local art successfully, I would suggest hiring employees with better people skills in promoting your establishment, and certainly ones who aren't rude to, and berate visitors seemingly for their own personal amusement. Apart from the front entrance debacle, all other employees were very helpful and happy to answer our art related questions. Fantastic exhibits and very thought provoking.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Holly F. 4 years ago on Google
    Always impressive... and now it’s free but they give you the option of donating with card when you check in or at the lobby in cash. The minimum suggested donation is 7 dollars per person. I went to the “with pleasure” exhibit and it was awesome. The whole area downtown is a bit of dead on weekends outside of the museums, but is lit during the week. Great place to do a lap at the museum, get a drink near by or at grand central market. There is a mini floating trolley you can take to the bottom of the hill to grand central which is a dollar or .50 cents with your tap card. Really fun. I like to hit up the broad at the same time. This place is chill vibes ✌🏾also, the gift shop is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 but expensive
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Alireza A. 10 months ago on Google
    It wasn't like the best museum that I've ever seen but it's good to see this place and spend some times. Here is my research about The Museum of Contemporary Art: The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a prominent institution dedicated to contemporary art located in Los Angeles, California. It is renowned for its diverse collection, thought-provoking exhibitions, and commitment to showcasing innovative and boundary-pushing works of art. Established in 1979, MOCA is one of the leading contemporary art museums in the United States. It operates three main facilities: MOCA Grand Avenue, MOCA Geffen, and MOCA Pacific Design Center. Each location offers a unique experience, featuring rotating exhibitions, permanent collections, and engaging programming. MOCA Grand Avenue, the museum's flagship location, is situated in downtown Los Angeles. Housed in a striking building designed by renowned architect Arata Isozaki, it showcases a vast collection of contemporary art spanning various mediums and styles. The collection includes works by influential artists such as Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, Roy Lichtenstein, and Cindy Sherman, among many others. Adjacent to MOCA Grand Avenue is The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, an industrial space that provides a platform for large-scale installations, multimedia artworks, and experimental exhibitions. This venue allows artists to explore and push the boundaries of contemporary art in a dynamic and unconventional setting. The MOCA Pacific Design Center, located in West Hollywood, focuses on contemporary design and architecture. The space hosts rotating exhibitions that explore the intersection of art and design, showcasing works that challenge traditional notions of functionality and aesthetics. In addition to its permanent collections and rotating exhibitions, MOCA offers an array of educational programs and community outreach initiatives. These include guided tours, lectures, panel discussions, workshops, and performances that engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The museum also collaborates with local schools, colleges, and community organizations to promote art education and foster a deeper understanding of contemporary art. MOCA has played a significant role in the development and promotion of contemporary art in Los Angeles and beyond. Its exhibitions and collections have sparked dialogue, challenged conventions, and influenced the art world. The museum has been at the forefront of showcasing diverse voices, including underrepresented artists and emerging talents, contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant artistic landscape. Moreover, MOCA often collaborates with other cultural institutions and artists to create special exhibitions and projects. These collaborations further enrich the museum's offerings and provide visitors with unique experiences that bridge different art forms and disciplines. As a leading cultural institution, MOCA has become an integral part of the vibrant arts scene in Los Angeles. Its commitment to pushing boundaries, supporting innovation, and fostering dialogue makes it a vital platform for contemporary artists and a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and curious individuals alike.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Milio 11 months ago on Google
    🎨Free Art Museum🎨 # Free, but need to get a ticket 🆓 # Develop my artistic sense 🖌️
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 White E. 2 years ago on Google
    Art is Free…. Except to the unvaccinated! Insane! They will not let you in without proof of vaccine, despite current city measures not requiring anything. Medical Discrimination at its finest. Unfortunate. The Broad across the street is free to all ;) attempted visit on may 14th.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Minh Anh Emma T. 2 years ago on Google
    I went before Covid so I’m not sure of the current restrictions. —The museum admission is free thanks to a very generous donor. —This is a medium-size museum with contemporary artworks. There is a whole room dedicated to Mark Rothko. —I like different kind of exhibits here, unique and colorful. Very well curated as well. —I went here by the train, as it’s only $10 during the weekend from OC to LA, the fee already include bus fare in LA so it’s a very good deal. So I’m not sure of the parking situation at the museum. But it’s right opposite the Disney Concert Hall so you can always pay to park there.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Elizabeth G. 1 year ago on Google • 109 reviews
    Went for Free Museum Day; saw a few cool pieces but most of the exhibits weren't really my cup of tea so to speak. Either way I can respect the art in itself. The staff was super nice and helfpul so that was a big plus.

  • 4/5 sophie 5 months ago on Google • 26 reviews
    Honestly it's a nice place to spontaneously stop by. The staff is nice and its quick little walk-through. Personally a lot of the art shown wasn't the best the that's a matter of opinion. The gift shop was also cute so definitely don't leave without getting something small.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leon A. 8 months ago on Google • 20 reviews
    This is probably one of the more underrated contemporary art museums in LA. Admission is free and you may need to reserve a ticket in advance (though tickets are usually much more abundant than Broad). The art itself can be a bit on the esoteric side, but if you come in with an open mind, you might find some pieces that resonate with you. I appreciate that they rotate their collections every season, with a large collection of works from historically significant modern artists like Pollock and Rothko, as well as more recent art from artists from LA.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chuck N. 2 years ago on Google
    Somewhat small for a MOCA. LOVED seeing representative works by Louise Nevelson, Mark Rothco, and Ruth Asawa that brought me close to tears (glorious artists). Also enjoyed the collection of acquisitions and the guest artist gallery
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Heena 4 years ago on Google
    It's a wonderful museum that is free to visit! Right across from the broad. They have some interesting pieces, but the quilts are my favorite part. The only thing is, it's a rather small museum. I walked through it in less than 45 minutes.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 T. J. 4 years ago on Google
    Very cool. FREE Admitance. You still have to get a ticket at the Box Office. Restrooms. No bags inside.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Elijah G. 11 months ago on Google
    The museum was lovely. The art was beautiful and I really connected with some of it. The employees were very helpful and extremely kind. The family room was also pretty neat. Overall I enjoyed the whole experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pablo S. 1 year ago on Google
    Super calm, super peaceful, such a wonderful place to be. Definitely do not go with kids if you wanna be relaxed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul K. 8 months ago on Google
    An excellent collection of thought provoking contemporary and modern art. Numerous local LA artists from the past and present are featured in one of the galleries. Well worth a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ken M. 1 year ago on Google
    1-25-2023 Henry Taylor fills half of this building with phenomenal, bold, relevant, powerful art. It's hard not to be moved by it. Top notch modern and cutting edge art. This is a world class venue. Expect the unusual in every exhibit. Expect a mix of paintings, installations, sculpture, video and mind-expansion. Admission here also gets you in for the same day to their other facility in Little Tokyo - equally exciting.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Sharon B. 1 year ago on Google
    Free entrance with online booking on their website. I was able to book my ticket right before I went. The two current exhibits on display were ok. I do like their more permanent pieces.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Robin C. 5 months ago on Google
    While this museum has quite a lot of history the owners are set on destroying historic parts of China town to build corporate chains and a mega prison. They are lying to people under the guise of preserving history to make their own money. Do not support this museum and do not cross the picket lines if you actually care about Chinese americans
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Damon T. 2 years ago on Google
    Great free museum. It helps to reserve your tickets ahead of time but you can also get them when you get there
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 darryl s. 5 months ago on Google • 66 reviews
    Just steps from The Broad, MOCA in DTLA enchants with its unique contemporary art. From thought-provoking pieces like possibly a table and conceivably a unicycle to perhaps food art, it offers a tranquil and charming journey. 🖼️🚲

  • 4/5 Dheeraj K. 4 years ago on Google
    I learnt that Los Angeles is kinda pioneer and leader in contemporary art from my visit to this museum. Museum is easily accessible (on the metro get off at Pershing square. a short walk and a $1 ride on angels flight) and entry is free for general admission. Large spacious viewing galleries on a single floor. Nice patterns and decoration art. Loved the FedEx glass box real-time art.

  • 4/5 Alfredo Guzmán T. 2 years ago on Google
    Went to moca today and spent time at Pipilotti Rist Studio “Big Heartedness, Be My Neighbor” exhibition. One of my favorite pieces is “I Couldn't Agree with You More” 1999 It’s in the permanent collection at MOCA Los Angeles.

  • 4/5 Sirah M. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful collection but seemed small for all the effort getting the tickets are. Remember to stay 2feet or more from the artwork.

  • 5/5 Ch H. 2 years ago on Google
    I enjoy the variety of art installations and pieces that are on display at this museum. I also like that it is always changing and that it is done with the intention of being thought provoking. I highly recommend this museum and best of all, it is free as is the other location, the MOCA Geffen in Little Tokyo (walking distance).

  • 5/5 M Q. 11 months ago on Google
    It's free! A must-see. Took the flight train up and found the museum as we were sightseeing . They have great art.

  • 5/5 Wade E. 1 year ago on Google
    Enjoyable Sunday afternoon. Free metered street parking on Sundays, as well as admission into the museum.

  • 5/5 Andrew Sattui N. 2 years ago on Google
    Went with my friend recently and had a wonderful time. The curatorial staff and attendants are particularly kind and helpful. Specifically I want to thank Camilla for her in-depth knowledge of some of the exhibits. It really helped me feel connected to the work to understand that one of the pieces was created in Inglewood and what it meant. Thank you MoCA, thank you Camilla. I'm so excited to show this museum off to my friends. :)

  • 5/5 Jonah M. 1 year ago on Google
    Came for my first time to see Henry Taylor B-sides and was not disappointed.

  • 2/5 Damien F. 1 year ago on Google
    Underground one floor museum with poor lighting, display of the art is below average. None of the shows I saw were well curated. Some room made no sense. The Henry Taylor show was disappointing. Just a lot of painting piled on each other, very little thinking in the display of the pieces.

  • 5/5 Lisa del B. 1 year ago on Google
    Small, but well-curated exhibition. Friendly staff. Free entry. You won't regret your visit.

  • 5/5 Jujuba V. 2 years ago on Google
    I went to the MOCA Museum of Contemporary Art, even though it's small, it's big enough to display and offer a variety of art. Admission is free, thank you, and I really enjoyed seeing Jennifer Packer's Art. She is an American painter from Philadelphia who won the Rome Prize at the American Academy 20202-2021. She is exhibiting “Every sit eye ain’t sleep”, which I was amazed by the abundance of talent this artist had.


Call +1 213-626-6222 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair rental
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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