The Skirball Cultural Center is a museum and cultural venue in the Sepulveda Pass area of Los Angeles, with exhibitions on Jewish history and culture alongside changing shows, family programs and performances. Its hands-on Noah’s Ark exhibit gives children room to climb, build and explore the story through play; the galleries also range from historical objects to pop culture. Set aside time for the courtyards and gardens between exhibits. The center welcomes people of different backgrounds and generations.
A museum built around culture and community
The Skirball Cultural Center explores Jewish heritage and its connections to American democratic ideals. Its museum combines historical objects, art and multimedia displays, with subjects that include Jewish life across different lands and periods. The exhibits also connect cultural history with themes such as freedom, equality, social justice and human rights.
The center is part museum, part educational and performance venue. Its campus includes galleries, courtyards, gardens, classrooms and spaces for public events. Programs range from music, theater, film and comedy to lectures, literary events and family activities. Exhibitions change, so the subjects on view can extend beyond Jewish history to pop culture and other areas.
Noah’s Ark and family activities
Noah’s Ark is an interactive exhibit designed around the biblical story. Children can climb, build and play among the wooden ark and its animal-filled spaces. Activities draw them into different parts of the tale, from helping animals aboard to imagining life inside the ark. Storytelling, pretend play and art activities add more ways to take part.
The family experience continues beyond the exhibit. The center has offered music and art workshops, craft activities and family programs, with some activities taking place in the art studio. Programs change, so check what is scheduled for your visit. Timed-entry reservations are recommended for Noah’s Ark; plan that part of the day ahead rather than assuming you can enter whenever you arrive.
Exhibitions, architecture and the grounds
The museum’s collection includes archaeological objects, Jewish ceremonial art and material culture, as well as works of art. Exhibitions such as Visions and Values trace Jewish life from antiquity to America. Temporary shows have also focused on artists and public figures, as well as popular culture. The Jack Kirby exhibition, for example, brought together original comic illustrations, fine art and commercial work, while examining his experience as a first-generation Jewish American.
The building was designed by architect Moshe Safdie and uses pale stone, glass and stainless steel. Outside the galleries, courtyards and gardens provide places to pause, and designated areas allow visitors to eat food they bring. The center also has a café and museum store. Free parking is available, though the north-side entrance can be difficult to spot as you approach.
Planning a visit
The center is closed on Mondays and opens from noon on Tuesday through Friday; weekend hours begin in the morning. Thursday admission is free with an advance reservation. Check the center’s current booking information before setting out, especially if Noah’s Ark is part of your plan.
The campus is large, and its exhibitions and programs appeal to different ages and interests. Choose the galleries and activities that matter most to your group rather than expecting to cover everything in one visit. Visitors using wheelchairs or other mobility devices may find some entrances and transitions less convenient, so checking access details with the center in advance can help with planning.
FAQ
Is admission free at the Skirball Cultural Center?
Admission is free on Thursdays with an advance reservation. The center’s booking information can confirm current ticket details.
Do you need a reservation for Noah’s Ark?
A timed-entry reservation is recommended so you have enough time to explore the exhibit.
Is parking available at the Skirball Cultural Center?
Free parking is available. The entrance to the north parking area is on the north side of the building and can be easy to miss.
What can children do at the Skirball Cultural Center?
Children can climb, build and take part in pretend play and storytelling in the Noah’s Ark exhibit. Family art and music activities are also part of the center’s programs.
