Background

Hollywood's Storied Past

Discover the magic of Hollywood's past at The Hollywood Museum, home to over 10,000 authentic showbiz treasures in the historic Max Factor Building on Highland Avenue.

4.4

The Hollywood Museum, nestled in the historic Max Factor Building, offers a captivating journey through the history of American motion pictures and television. With four floors of exhibits, visitors can explore over 10,000 authentic showbiz treasures, including costumes, props, photographs, and memorabilia from iconic films and TV shows. Highlights include Max Factor's meticulously restored makeup rooms, where Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe and Lucille Ball were transformed, and the chilling Dungeon of Doom, showcasing props from classic horror films. The museum also celebrates the contributions of African American, LGBTQ+, and Latinx pioneers to Hollywood's narrative. A must-visit for film buffs and pop culture enthusiasts, the Hollywood Museum provides an immersive glimpse into the magic of Tinseltown.

A brief summary to The Hollywood Museum

  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience, as weekends tend to be more crowded.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's four floors of exhibits.
  • Check the museum's website for special events, film screenings, and temporary exhibits during your visit.
  • Take advantage of the reduced parking rate validation offered to museum visitors at nearby parking structures.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a tour of the TCL Chinese Theatre, both located within walking distance.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Hollywood Museum is easily accessible via the Metro B Line (Red Line). Exit at the Hollywood/Highland station. From the station, walk south along Highland Avenue for about two blocks. The museum will be on your left, nestled in the historic Max Factor Building. A single ride fare on the Metro is $1.75.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Hollywood area, such as near the Hollywood Walk of Fame or TCL Chinese Theatre, The Hollywood Museum is within easy walking distance. Head south on Highland Avenue, and you'll find the museum about two blocks south of Hollywood Boulevard, on the west side of the street.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Hollywood. Simply provide 'The Hollywood Museum, 1660 Highland Ave, Hollywood' as your destination. Expect to pay around $8-$15 for a short ride within the Hollywood area, depending on traffic and distance.

  • Driving

    If driving, approach via Highland Avenue. Parking is available in nearby lots and structures. The Hollywood Museum offers a reduced parking rate validation for museum visitors. Parking fees typically range from $15-$40 for a few hours, depending on the lot and time of day. The museum does not offer on-site parking.

Unlock the Best of The Hollywood Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Hollywood Museum

Step into the heart of Hollywood's golden age at The Hollywood Museum, a dazzling tribute to the silver screen's most iconic moments and personalities. Housed within the historic Max Factor Building, this museum offers an unparalleled journey through the evolution of American cinema and television. Founded in 2003, the museum showcases a vast collection of over 10,000 artifacts, costumes, props, and memorabilia, spread across four floors of captivating exhibits. The Max Factor Building itself is a star. Purchased in 1928 by the legendary makeup artist Max Factor, it served as his Hollywood salon where he crafted the signature looks for silver screen sirens. The building, designed in the Hollywood Regency Art Deco style by architect S. Charles Lee, was meticulously restored to its original grandeur, featuring a lobby adorned with lavish marble, recreated historical chandeliers, and pastel hues. One of the museum's most enchanting features is Max Factor's world-famous makeup rooms. These rooms, each color-coded for blondes, redheads, brownettes, and brunettes, offer a glimpse into the artistry that transformed Hollywood's leading ladies. Visitors can stand in the very spot where Marilyn Monroe became a blonde bombshell and Lucille Ball an iconic redhead. Vintage makeup ads, celebrity autographs, and photographs line the hallways, adding to the immersive experience. Beyond the glamour of the makeup rooms, The Hollywood Museum boasts an impressive array of exhibits that span decades of film and television history. Marvel at costumes worn by legendary stars like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Elizabeth Taylor. Examine props from classic films such as "The Silence of the Lambs," "Jurassic Park," and "Planet of the Apes." Explore exhibits dedicated to iconic TV shows like "I Love Lucy," "Star Trek," and "Batman." For those with a penchant for the macabre, the Dungeon of Doom offers a spine-chilling experience. This exhibit showcases props and memorabilia from some of Hollywood's most iconic horror films, including Boris Karloff's mummy, Vampira, Frankenstein and his bride, and Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. Visitors can even walk through a recreation of Hannibal Lecter's jail cell from "The Silence of the Lambs." The Hollywood Museum also celebrates the diversity and impact of the entertainment industry. Exhibits dedicated to African American, LGBTQ+, and Latinx pioneers recognize their contributions to shaping Hollywood's narrative. These exhibits highlight the struggles and triumphs of underrepresented groups, showcasing their influence on film, television, and popular culture. In addition to its permanent exhibits, The Hollywood Museum hosts a variety of special events, film screenings, and educational programs throughout the year. These events offer visitors unique opportunities to engage with Hollywood's past and present, providing insight into the industry's inner workings and cultural significance. The Hollywood Museum is more than just a collection of artifacts; it's a living time capsule that captures the essence of Hollywood's golden age while honoring the enduring influence of entertainment on global culture. Whether you're a film buff, a pop culture enthusiast, or simply curious about the magic of Tinseltown, The Hollywood Museum promises an unforgettable experience.

Popular Experiences near The Hollywood Museum

Popular Hotels near The Hollywood Museum

Select Currency