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USS Midway Museum
If you're on a budget, look for combo tickets with other attractions nearby. I saved some cash that way. Totally worth it!
The Getty
I found the audio guides super helpful, but you can also just download the app and save some cash. Way easier than carrying a device around!
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
If you're planning to visit multiple museums in LA, consider getting the Museum Pass. It can save you some money and offers access to a bunch of places, including LACMA.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
I suggest downloading the SFMOMA app before you go. It gives you good info about the pieces and helps you find your way around. Plus, it works offline!
Definitely check out the free first Tuesdays of the month! I had a great time exploring more without breaking the bank. Just be ready for a bigger crowd, though!
If you want to avoid long lines, try to visit after 3 PM on weekdays. I went around that time and it was much less hectic, giving me more time to enjoy each piece!
The Broad
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
I suggest bringing snacks or a picnic. The cafe inside is kinda pricey and I didn’t find the food that great. I wish I had packed my own food!
Plan to spend about 3-4 hours there to really see everything. I thought a couple of hours would be enough, but I was so wrong!
Winchester Mystery House
I recommend buying your tickets online in advance to avoid the long lines at the ticket booth. It saved me so much time!
Plan to take the Grand Estate Tour if you can; it covers more of the house and its history. I feel like I got the full spooky experience this way!
Take a sweater! Even in summer, some areas of the house can be a bit chilly, and you want to be comfortable while experiencing all the mystery.
Exploratorium
One thing I wish I’d known was to plan your exhibits ahead of time. Some stuff was closed during my visit, so check their website the day before to make sure you see what you want!
If you're visiting with kids, here's a tip: there are family packs available at a discount that can save you some cash. We got one and it made a big difference!
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM)
Don't forget to explore the basement. I thought the best exhibits were all upstairs, but there are some cool surprises down below.
If you're a student or teacher, bring your ID! I saved a good amount on tickets with a student discount, which was unexpected.
Petersen Automotive Museum
I think the museum has a café, but I found food options a bit pricey. So, if you wanna save some cash, grab a bite before you come or pack a snack for the road!
I recommend starting your visit at 10 AM, just when they open. It gets packed later, and you can enjoy the exhibits without having to navigate through crowds.
If you're a car buff, take some time to read the info plaques. Some of the stories behind the cars are super interesting, and it adds to the experience as you go through the museum!