Hammer Museum
10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90024
The Hammer Museum is a Los Angeles arts and culture hub run by UCLA’s School of Arts and Architecture, housing everything from old master paintings to contemporary works. Since the museum is free, it's great for budget-conscious travelers that love the arts. You can stroll the galleries, relax in the courtyard, or join for a docent talk.
The Basics
The Hammer Museum—often called simply the Hammer by locals—is a prime destination for arts enthusiasts. The museum features diverse galleries showcasing impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, graphic arts, and numerous works by 19th-century satirist Honoré Daumier.
You can join for a weekly guided tour of the Hammer Museum galleries, on Saturday afternoons, or a student educator art talk, held on Sundays. Easily pair a visit to the Hammer with a stop at UCLA's Fowler Museum, which features a collection focused primarily on global works. You can also stop by the UCLA Meteorite Gallery. Both are located within walking distance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Art enthusiasts shouldn't miss the Hammer Museum, and nearby Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden.
- The Hammer Museum is a great value; entry to all exhibitions and programs is free.
- The museum is accessible for guests in wheelchairs, and offers assistive listening devices and large print texts.
- There's a full-service restaurant in the museum courtyard.
How to Get There
The Hammer is located in Los Angeles' Westwood Village, just three blocks from the 405 freeway. It's typically most convenient to drive, via the Wilshire exit of the 405. You can park in the paid, on-site garage, with entrances on Westwood Boulevard and Glendon Avenue. Alternatively, you can take the bus. Since departure times vary, check the LA Metro website for schedule information.
When to Get There
The Hammer Museum is open six days a week, and closed on Mondays. The museum holds later hours Tuesday through Friday, and closes by 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. The museum also periodically holds special tours and events, including film screenings, lunchtime chats, and more. Check the calendar before your visit to see what's on.
Sightseeing in Los Angeles
Travelers that want to see more of Los Angeles can drive, but fighting the traffic can be a hassle. Avoid the trouble with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Most tours include dozens of stops at top attractions, from the TCL Chinese Theater and Sunset Strip to the Hollywood Sign. You can book a celebrity homes combo tour to explore the Hollywood Hills, and choose a multi-day ticket for the best value.
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