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Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Where Movie Magic Comes to Life

Explore the magic of moviemaking at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, where iconic artifacts, immersive exhibits, and dynamic programming bring the world of cinema to life in the heart of Los Angeles.

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The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, located on Museum Row in Los Angeles' Miracle Mile, is the largest museum in the United States dedicated to the art, science, and history of filmmaking. Opened in 2021, the museum resides in the beautifully restored Saban Building (formerly the May Company building) and a striking new spherical addition designed by Renzo Piano. Visitors can explore a vast collection of movie memorabilia, including iconic costumes, props, and equipment, alongside immersive exhibits that delve into the creative process behind beloved films. With its dynamic programming, including film screenings, special events, and educational workshops, the Academy Museum offers an engaging and enlightening experience for movie lovers of all ages. Don't miss the chance to see Dorothy's ruby slippers, a Jaws shark model, and experience the Oscars® Experience.

A brief summary to Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays or late afternoons) to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entry, especially for popular exhibitions and film screenings.
  • Download the free Academy Museum app for interactive maps, guided tours, and augmented reality experiences.
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibitions and collections.
  • Take advantage of the museum's educational programs, including workshops, lectures, and family days, to deepen your understanding of filmmaking.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For those arriving via public transport, the Academy Museum is accessible via several bus lines. The Metro Local 20 and 720 lines stop near the museum at Wilshire Blvd and Fairfax Ave. From the bus stop, it's a short walk north to the museum entrance. A single Metro fare is $1.75, and a day pass is available for $3.50, allowing unlimited rides. The D Line subway is expected to have a station at Wilshire/Fairfax opening in 2025-2027, which will provide even easier access.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), the destination is 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles. Request your drop-off at Roddenberry Lane, off the museum's Fairfax Avenue entrance, for convenient access. A ride-share from central LA will typically cost between $20-$30, depending on traffic and surge pricing.

  • Driving

    If driving, the Academy Museum is located at the corner of Wilshire Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue. Limited public parking is available at nearby LACMA's Pritzker Parking Garage (entrance on 6th Street) and the Petersen Automotive Museum. Parking fees at these garages typically range from $18-$20 per day. Metered street parking is also available on surrounding streets, but availability is limited, and time restrictions apply. Cheaper parking options can be found further away using parking apps, with prices ranging from $8-$17.50.

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Discover more about Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures stands as a beacon for cinephiles, historians, and casual moviegoers alike, offering an unparalleled exploration into the world of film. Situated on Wilshire Boulevard's Museum Row, in the heart of Los Angeles' Miracle Mile, the museum is an architectural marvel, blending the restored 1939 Saban Building with a striking, modern sphere designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano. Inside, visitors are treated to a comprehensive journey through the history, science, and cultural impact of motion pictures. The museum's collection boasts over 13 million objects, ranging from iconic costumes and props to original screenplays and behind-the-scenes photographs. Exhibits delve into the art of filmmaking, showcasing the contributions of actors, directors, writers, cinematographers, editors, and countless other professionals who bring stories to life on the silver screen. The museum's core exhibition, "Stories of Cinema," spans multiple floors and presents a diverse and international perspective on moviemaking. Visitors can explore the evolution of film technology, learn about the creative process behind classic and contemporary movies, and discover the social and political contexts that have shaped the industry. Temporary exhibitions offer in-depth explorations of specific genres, filmmakers, and themes, ensuring that there is always something new to discover. Among the museum's many highlights are the iconic artifacts from beloved films. Dorothy's ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz," the last surviving full-scale shark model from "Jaws," and costumes from films like "Black Panther" and "Alien" are just a few of the treasures on display. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to experience the magic of filmmaking firsthand, from creating their own stop-motion animation to stepping onto a virtual movie set. The Academy Museum is also home to two state-of-the-art theaters. The 1,000-seat David Geffen Theater, housed within the sphere, is equipped to screen films in a variety of formats, including nitrate, 35mm, 70mm, and laser projection. The 288-seat Ted Mann Theater offers a more intimate setting for curated screenings and special programs. Beyond its exhibitions and screenings, the Academy Museum offers a wide range of educational programs for visitors of all ages. Workshops, lectures, and family days provide opportunities to learn about filmmaking techniques, explore film history, and engage in creative activities. The museum also hosts special events, including film premieres, Q&As with filmmakers, and live performances. The museum's commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its exhibitions and programming. The museum strives to tell the stories of filmmakers from all backgrounds and to address the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today. Exhibitions like "Regeneration: Black Cinema 1898–1971" highlight the contributions of Black filmmakers to American cinema, while other exhibits explore issues of gender, sexuality, and representation. The Academy Museum is more than just a museum; it is a gathering place for film lovers, a center for learning and discovery, and a celebration of the art and science of motion pictures. Whether you are a seasoned cinephile or a casual moviegoer, a visit to the Academy Museum is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Enhance your visit by downloading the free Academy Museum app, which provides access to interactive maps, guided tours narrated by iconic filmmakers, and augmented reality experiences. The museum also offers a variety of dining options, including Fanny's, a full-service restaurant, bar, and café developed by celebrated restaurateurs Bill Chait and Carl Schuster. The Academy Museum Store offers a curated selection of film-inspired merchandise, including books, posters, apparel, and collectibles. Located on Museum Row, the Academy Museum is surrounded by other cultural institutions, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the Petersen Automotive Museum, and the La Brea Tar Pits. Visitors can easily spend a day exploring the area's many attractions. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the world of film. With its vast collection, engaging exhibits, dynamic programming, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, the museum offers an unparalleled experience for movie lovers of all ages. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of cinema! The Academy Museum's location in the heart of Los Angeles' Miracle Mile places it within a vibrant cultural hub. Nearby attractions include LACMA, the La Brea Tar Pits, and the Petersen Automotive Museum, making it easy to combine a visit to the Academy Museum with other enriching experiences. The Miracle Mile itself is a historic district known for its Art Deco architecture and its concentration of museums and cultural institutions. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is not just a repository of film history; it is a dynamic and evolving institution that seeks to engage with the present and future of the industry. Through its exhibitions, programming, and educational initiatives, the museum aims to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art of motion pictures.

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