Los Angeles is a popular tourist destination and one of the largest cities in California. Explore the expansive metropolis and you’ll come to find that each neighborhood has its own distinct personality. Though widely recognized as the center of America’s film and television industry, Los Angeles is also home to incredible museums and cultural attractions. Locals and visitors alike gather at the world-class institutions to experience L.A.’s thriving art scene. Check out our recommendations for a weekend full of art, culture, and style in the City of Angels.
W Hollywood
The chic W Hollywood is a boutique hotel located under the iconic Hollywood Sign. The property is known for its modern design that captures the glamour of Hollywood. Enjoy upscale restaurants, a rooftop pool and bar, and the luxurious Bliss Spa without ever leaving the hotel. It’s close to several LA landmarks, including the Hollywood Bowl, Universal Studios, and the TCL Chinese Theatre. At the W Hollywood, you’re steps away from the entertainment capital of the world! Live like a celebrity with the Suite Treats Package. It includes a VIP upgrade to a Marvelous Suite, complimentary Wi-Fi, and champagne upon arrival.
The Getty
The Getty is one of the largest art organizations in the world and comprises two separate venues in Los Angeles, the Getty Center and the Getty Villa. Admission is free for both locations.
Visit the Getty Center at the top of Los Angeles to see world-class art and architecture. The expansive campus incorporates unique design elements and includes beautiful vistas and peaceful gardens. The Getty Museum contains various European paintings, drawings, sculpture, and photography. The Getty’s collection features famous works such as Van Gogh’s Irises as well as impressionist pictures by Manet and Monet. Don’t miss In Focus: Electric! on display through August 28, 2016. The exhibition showcases historic photographs with a focus on artificial illumination from renowned photographers including Bill Brandt, Alfred Stieglitz, and Andreas Feininger.
The Getty Villa in Malibu takes you back to ancient Greece and Rome. Opened in 2006, the museum and educational center is dedicated to the study of the arts and cultures of Greece, Rome, and Etruria. The Villa currently houses almost 44,000 works of art, including antiquities that date back to 6,500 B.C. Peruse their collection of Roman mosaics recovered from Italy, North Africa, Southern France, Turkey, and Syria. Our favorite area is the Outer Peristyle, the largest garden on the site. Hedge-lined pathways and circular stone benches surround a stunning 220-foot-long pool. Keep an eye out for the numerous bronze sculptures scattered throughout the garden. They are replicas of statues found at the Villa Dei Papiri, a private house in the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum.
The Standard, Downtown LA
The Standard combines contemporary style with Los Angeles’ distinct personality. It’s an architectural wonder situated right in the center of vibrant Downtown Los Angeles. Originally built as the headquarters of Superior Oil Company, it now houses 207 spacious guest rooms, a rooftop pool and beer garden, a 24-hour diner, and trendy nightlife options. Book the Now Checking In: MOCA Package to immerse yourself in the culture of Los Angeles. The package includes deluxe accommodations, free admission for two and member privileges at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, and a special souvenir gift at the MOCA store.
Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles
The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles presents avant-garde art pieces, emphasizing modern expression and the changing definitions of art. They collect, present, and interpret pieces created after 1940, preserving the work for future generations. There are three different locations throughout Los Angeles: MOCA Grand Avenue, The Geffen Contemprary at MOCA, and MOCA Pacific Design Center. Each one features unique exhibitions and educational programs. We recommend Hito Steyerl: Factory of the Sun at MOCA Grand Avenue. The futuristic video installation is an immersive experience set in a motion capture studio. Admission to MOCA Grand Avenue is free every Thursday from 5 – 8 pm.
Viceroy Santa Monica
Stay at the elegant Viceroy Santa Monica for a beachside getaway. The property embodies classic sophistication with a modern flair. With ocean views, state-of-the-art amenities, dining and nightlife options, it’s perfect for business or pleasure. There are two outdoor pools, an on-site lounge and restaurant, a fully equipped fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi in all guest rooms and common areas. Book the perfect weekend getaway with the Plan Your Escape Package. Save up to 20% on deluxe accommodations and receive two complimentary cocktails and $10 off valet parking.
LACMA
Founded in 1965, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum on the West Coast. It’s located in the heart of Los Angeles, spanning 20 acres across Hancock Park. Their collection includes roughly 130,000 pieces that represent the history of art and the extraordinary diversity of Los Angeles. LACMA boasts an extensive collection of Asian and Latin American art, as well as one of the most prominent collections of Islamic art in the world. Millions of visitors flock to their numerous exhibitions, public programs, and research facilities every year. One of our favorite exhibitions is the Miracle Mile by Robert Irwin. It’s an exploration of light, material and color that consists of 66 fluorescent tubes suspended across a gallery wall. Buy tickets online.7
