Photo: Juan Vivian
Photo: Mark Exall
Photo: Lauren Stern
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
★4.4(3,798 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 6 and up. School-age children and tweens who love movies will be most engaged by the filmmaking process exhibits and recognizable props. Younger children (4-5) may enjoy costume displays and some interactive elements, but abstract film history content may not hold their attention as well.🧡 Saved by 80+ families
About
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures brings movie magic to life with hands-on exhibits that let kids explore how their favorite films are made. From iconic props and costumes to interactive displays about animation and special effects, this modern museum makes cinema history exciting and accessible for young movie fans who will be thrilled to see real artifacts from beloved family films.
Highlights
- ✓Original props from Star Wars, E.T., and other classic family films
- ✓Interactive exhibits showing how animation and special effects are created
- ✓The spherical David Geffen Theater with immersive film screenings
- ✓Costume galleries featuring Oscar-winning designs from beloved movies
- ✓The rooftop terrace with panoramic Los Angeles views
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday mornings right at 10 AM opening for smallest crowds and best photo opportunities with popular exhibits
- 2.Download the museum app before visiting for interactive content and scavenger hunt features that keep kids engaged throughout
- 3.Don't miss the third-floor Stories of Cinema gallery where kids can see props from Harry Potter, The Wizard of Oz, and other family favorites
- 4.The rooftop terrace offers stunning views and is a great spot for restless kids to take a break and stretch their legs
- 5.Reserve timed entry tickets online in advance, especially for weekend visits, as the museum regularly sells out
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday at opening) offer the quietest experience. Avoid weekends and school holidays when families flock to the museum. The museum is closed Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
What to Know
General admission tickets are $25 for adults and $19 for seniors; children 17 and under are FREE, making this an excellent value for families. Parking is available at the adjacent Petersen Automotive Museum garage ($15 flat rate). The museum café offers kid-friendly options, though you may want to plan lunch elsewhere for more variety.
Seasonal Notes
Indoor museum is comfortable year-round. Special family programming and themed exhibits often coincide with major movie releases and holidays. Check their calendar for special screenings of classic family films in the spectacular sphere theater, particularly during summer and winter school breaks.
Nearby Eats
The Original Farmers Market (just 5 minutes away) offers dozens of kid-friendly food stalls from pizza to tacos in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Pink's Hot Dogs, a Los Angeles institution, is also nearby and serves classic hot dogs that kids love in a fun, retro setting.
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