The Broad is a contemporary art museum on Grand Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles, across from Walt Disney Concert Hall. Its collection spans postwar art to the present, with works by Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama. The honeycomb-like outer shell and long escalator are part of the visit, as are galleries where the museum’s collection is displayed. General admission is free, but reserve a timed ticket online. Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms need their own timed reservation, so check availability when planning your visit.
The collection and what to look for
The Broad presents postwar and contemporary art from the collection of Eli and Edythe Broad. It includes more than 2,000 works, with artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Roy Lichtenstein and Takashi Murakami represented. Paintings, photography, sculpture and installations sit across a range of styles, so the galleries can feel quite different from one room to the next.
Look out for Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog, Robert Therrien’s enlarged table and chairs, and works by Basquiat and Warhol. Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms are another major draw. One room surrounds visitors with a field of twinkling lights; access is by timed reservation. The museum also has a smaller reflective room where visitors can look inside.
The veil-and-vault building
The building was designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro with Gensler and opened in 2015. Its porous, honeycomb-like outer shell is known as the veil, while the concrete core contains gallery and storage spaces referred to as the vault. The design brings daylight into the galleries while shielding the artworks from direct sun.
A window in the stairwell gives a glimpse into the storage area, where works not currently on display are kept. The long escalator leading to the upper galleries is another architectural detail to notice. Across the street from Walt Disney Concert Hall, the museum is easy to pair with a visit to the concert hall or other nearby Downtown sights.
Tickets and special exhibitions
General admission to the permanent collection is free, but visitors need a timed-entry ticket. Booking online ahead of your visit helps you avoid waiting for entry, particularly on busy weekends. The Infinity Mirror Rooms require a separate timed reservation, and their limited slots can fill quickly.
Special exhibitions and some events may charge admission. Check the museum’s current exhibition and ticket information before your visit, as the schedule and access arrangements can change. The museum shop is in the lobby and sells books, prints and gifts connected with the collection and the building.
FAQ
Is admission to The Broad free?
General admission to the permanent collection is free, but you need a timed-entry ticket. Special exhibitions and some events may require paid tickets.
Do you need a reservation for the Infinity Mirror Rooms?
Yes. The rooms require a separate timed reservation, in addition to your general admission ticket.
How long should you spend at The Broad?
Plan on about 1 to 2 hours to explore the galleries.
Where is The Broad?
It is at 221 S Grand Ave in Downtown Los Angeles, across from Walt Disney Concert Hall.
