Public Art "Urban Light" (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Public Art "Urban Light"?
What makes it 84% Kids-Friendly: Kids can safely weave among symmetrical lamp rows and join free outdoor art workshops, though there is no playground or interactive exhibit on site.
Positives:
- Free, 24/7 Access: Urban Light is open day and night with no admission fee, letting families visit anytime
- Stroller and Wheelchair Friendly: The flat plaza surface makes it easy to navigate strollers or wheelchairs
Challenges:
- Crowds at Dusk: Evening hours draw photo groups; visit early morning or midday to avoid crowds
- No Shade: Limited shade on the plaza; bring hats and sunscreen on sunny days
What is Public Art "Urban Light"?
- A free outdoor sculpture by Chris Burden at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s Wilshire Boulevard entrance
- An arrangement of 202 restored cast-iron street lamps from the 1920s–30s set in a precise, grid-like formation
- A solar-powered lighting installation that glows nightly from dusk until dawn and remains open 24 hours a day
What is so special about Public Art "Urban Light" for with kids?
- Free outdoor art with 202 restored lamps to explore
- Interactive scavenger hunt keeps kids busy
- Nearby family art workshops and drawing carts
- Quick walk to La Brea Tar Pits adds educational fun
- Open 24/7 and stroller-friendly plaza
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Kids can explore the lamps and play a scavenger hunt without getting tired
Kids-Friendly Activities in Public Art "Urban Light"
Lamp-Counting Scavenger Hunt:
Kids search and count lamps with special features like colored glass or tall posts.
Tip: Bring a simple checklist and small stickers to mark off lamps safely
Family Art-making Workshops:
Enjoy free art sessions on Smidt Plaza like story time and dot-painting.
Tip: Check LACMA’s calendar online for dates and arrive 15 minutes early to join a session
Visit La Brea Tar Pits:
Walk east 5 minutes to see bubbling tar pools and life-science exhibits.
Tip: Buy combined tickets online for a discount and pack light snacks
Snack-and-Stretch Break:
Use benches and open space for a picnic and kids’ stretch.
Tip: Pack portable snacks and a blanket to sit comfortably
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Public Art "Urban Light"
- Early Arrival: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to find parking and secure a good spot
- Download Parking App: Use the LACMA parking app to pre-book a space and skip lines
- DIY Scavenger Sheet: Prepare a simple hunt list at home to engage kids on arrival
Reviews of Public Art "Urban Light"
Venugopal Manyam
The light poles look stunning, especially during the evening, and the whole place has a unique charm. It’s a perfect location for taking portraits, family pictures, or creative shots. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the area is very well maintained. It’s a great place to stop by with friends or family and capture some memorable moments. If you love photography, this is definitely a must-visit!
LOUIE YAP
Urban Light at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is an enchanting and unforgettable experience that beautifully blends art, history, and modern urban aesthetics. Composed of 202 restored cast-iron street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, the installation is both striking and whimsical, transforming a simple outdoor space into a luminous wonderland. Visiting Urban Light is magical, especi...
Alexandra Dexter
This is where I proposed to my now wife! :) beautiful art piece that is open and free 24/7 to everyone! It is most beautiful at night, in my opinion. Definitely worth a visit!
Annie Simsuangco
The two other times I've been here, have been during the day time. I love it even more at night. Right now there's a bit of road construction up front, but there's some street parking available. Perfect to visit after a certain time at night aka free parking. Worth a visit!
Mohammad Abdus Salam
Urban Light at LACMA is one of the most iconic spots in LA. With 202 restored vintage street lamps lined up in perfect rows, it feels like walking through a glowing outdoor museum. By day, it’s striking and elegant; by night, when the lamps light up, it turns into pure magic—romantic, cinematic, and unforgettable. The best part? It’s free, open 24/7, and perfect for photos. It does get crowded at...
When is the best time to visit Public Art "Urban Light" (Los Angeles, United States)?
Lamps light up at dusk year-round. In summer, visit after sunset to see them glow; in winter, go midday for warmer weather.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking (Pritzker Garage) | USD 18 |
| La Brea Tar Pits tickets (2 adults, 2 kids) | USD 44 |
| Total Estimated | USD 62 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Public Art "Urban Light"
Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
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About Public Art "Urban Light"
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 323-857-600010 BEST nearby Activities
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