During our two-day escape to Los Angeles, we decided to step into the world of contemporary art and creativity at The Broad Museum—a striking landmark in downtown LA that has become a must-visit for art lovers around the globe.

A Work of Art Before You Even Enter

Right next to the gleaming Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad stands out with its bold “veil and vault” architecture—a honeycomb-like structure made of 2,500 white fiberglass panels that filter natural light into the space. Designed to feel both futuristic and airy, the building itself feels like the first exhibit before you even step inside.

Despite visiting on a bustling Sunday morning, we were thrilled to glide right in, thanks to free tickets we reserved online. The grand escalator ride to the top floor set the tone—smooth, dramatic, and filled with anticipation.

Bursts of Color and Childhood Wonder

Our adventure began with Jeff Koons’ dazzling Tulips—a massive glass bouquet shimmering in every color imaginable. It instantly drew crowds of visitors eager to capture the perfect photo. While the selfie frenzy was entertaining, we took a quieter approach, soaking in the sculpture’s vibrancy and joyful playfulness.

Then came Robert Therrien’s Under the Table (1994)—a surreal installation that makes you feel like you’ve shrunk to the size of a child. Standing beneath a towering seven-foot dining table and chairs, we were overcome by a mix of awe and nostalgia. You could almost hear the laughter of everyone who ever hid under a table as a kid. Guards kept reminding visitors not to climb it (I was tempted!), but that only added to the fun.

Familiar Faces and Mesmerizing Motion

We were delighted to find a familiar piece from our hometown—the stacked plate sculpture that once graced the Palm Springs Art Museum. Circling around it creates the illusion that the plates are moving up and down—a mesmerizing optical effect that had visitors spinning with delight.

The Greats: Basquiat, Warhol, and Koons

For me, one of the most powerful moments came in front of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s works. His raw energy and expressive style felt alive, every brushstroke charged with emotion and meaning. It’s impossible not to be moved knowing his brilliance was cut short in 1988.

Nearby, an entire gallery glowed with Andy Warhol’s pop icons: Mao (1973), 40 Gold Marilyns (1980), and Liz [Early Colored Liz] (1963). The vivid silkscreen of Elizabeth Taylor—radiant, tragic, and eternal—seemed to encapsulate the glamour and melancholy of fame itself.

And of course, Jeff Koons made another statement with his monumental Balloon Dog (Blue), glistening like liquid sapphire. It’s one of the most photographed artworks in the world, and for a fleeting minute, we had it all to ourselves. Nearby, his Michael Jackson and Bubbles stood just as striking—gold, porcelain, and pure pop fantasy.

Hidden Treasures and Lasting Impressions

As we descended the staircase, we glimpsed into the museum’s vaulted art storage, where future exhibits rested in perfect order—like a secret world of masterpieces waiting to be revealed.

The visit ended at the museum boutique, a beautifully curated shop filled with art prints, books, and creative keepsakes. We lingered a while, not quite ready to leave the energy and imagination that filled every corner of the place.

We walked out inspired, already planning our next visit. With exhibitions that rotate regularly, The Broad promises something new every time.

✨ Travel Tips for Visiting The Broad

• 🎟 Book in advance: Entry is free, but reservations are required. Plan ahead, especially for weekends.
• 🕙 Arrive early: Lines for popular installations like the Infinity Mirror Room can get long.
• 📸 Photography: Allowed, but be mindful—some areas are better enjoyed through your eyes, not a lens.
• ☕ Nearby bites: The museum is steps from Grand Avenue’s coffee shops and restaurants—perfect for a post-art brunch.

The Broad Museum isn’t just a place to look at art—it’s a space that invites you to feel it, live it, and question it. From its playful installations to its iconic masterpieces, it’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting Los Angeles.