Whether it’s the unmistakable L.A. sunsets lighting up Hollywood films, the mind-bending installations in a neighboring desert, or the epically-scaled events that blur the line between reality and hit shows, there’s no denying that Los Angeles has a thriving cultural scene. It offers thought-provoking creativity in every shape and form imaginable. But while there are tons of world-class galleries to lose yourself in all year round, a few art experiences are only stopping by for a limited time. Here are eight of the best exhibitions in Los Angeles you simply cannot miss:
1. The Stranger Things Experience in Montebello
Eleven may have saved Hawkins in the past, but Stranger Things: The Experience puts you in the center of the action. The immersive adventure will show you how to tap into your own power as you and your friends make your way through 1980s Hawkins and beyond. Do you have what it takes to journey into the Upside Down and save the day? Find out with all the retro nostalgia, Stranger Things-themed food and drinks, and exclusive merch. Find more details and tickets about this retro haven here.
2. Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst The Stars
Astra Lumina is the latest mind-bending experience from world-renowned multimedia studio Moment Factory. Its West Coast debut has transformed the South Coast Botanic Garden into a mystifying world of light, sound, and wonderment. As the sun sets, the gardens begin to glow and a cosmic story unfolds. This is definitely an interactive display like you’ve never seen before. Each area has something new to explore and you can get your tickets to this otherworldly night walk here!
3. The Empire Strips Back: A Burlesque Parody
A Star Wars burlesque show may not be an exhibition, but it’s filled with exhibitionists and elaborate sets. Whether you’re into comedy, dancing, musical numbers, or just Star Wars, this parody show has something for everyone. With shows constantly being sold out, the energy of the crowd reacting to the action onstage is really what drives the performances. Both die-hard franchise fans and those who’ve never seen a lightsaber in their life will be blown away by the show. So if you want to be taken to a galaxy far, far, away, without any intergalactic travel, then this is your best bet. Tickets to this sci-fi striptease are available here!
4. Yayoi Kusama at The Broad
Image: Courtesy of The Broad
One of the most iconic exhibitions in Los Angeles is finally back at The Broad, with notable improvements. You’ll no longer have to camp outside to glimpse the renowned Japanese artist’s mesmerizing ‘Infinity Mirrored Rooms’ with the new ticketing system, plus you’ll get a little more time to spend inside them. Tickets are released on the last Wednesday of every month, and the two installations will be on show for most of 2022. Find out more here.
5. The Bob Marley One Love Experience
The Bob Marley One Love Experience was created in collaboration with the Marley family to pay tribute to one of the most beloved musicians and humanitarians of his time. The One Love Experience will take you through seven unique zones that take a deep dive into the reggae icon’s life. With a silent disco, street art from Mr. Brainwash, foosball and ping pong (some of Bob Marley’s favorite activities), you’ll discover everything there is to know about the revolutionary singer-songwriter. Tickets are now available to this one-of-a-kind exhibit in Los Angeles—get yours here!
6. Dinos Alive in Montebello
Dinos Alive Exhibit: An Immersive Experience has taken over a sprawling warehouse, featuring over 80 specimens of life-sized moving replicas such as T-Rex, Stegosaurus and Ankylosaurs. This exhibit is a fascinating journey into The Jurassic and will leave audiences of all ages in awe. Get your tickets here and get ready to wander the planet with the giants of the past.
7. Flutter at 217 S La Brea
Explore, play and adventure at flutter, the top-rated multisensory art experience in America. This provocative, interactive exhibit in Los Angeles was developed to help you find your inner artist and unleash your imagination. It’s a fun, visceral wonderland created by 14 curated artists with a focus on mental health. It’s the escape we’ve been asking for and as well as leaving you in a state of pure bliss, a portion of the tickets go towards Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation. Find out more here.
8. William Kentridge: In Praise Of Shadows At The Broad
In the first major exhibition for the celebrated South African artist in two decades, William Kentridge will be presenting his first monograph at The Broad with over 130 works presented in an engaging and interactive design by Belgian designer Sabine Theunissen. Featuring 18 works from the Broad collection, as well as substantial loan artwork from across the United States and South Africa, this landmark exhibition traces the artist’s artistic development over the last 35 years.
Tip: You can get free access to William Kentridge: In Praise of Shadows every Thursday evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.