Why visit
For film lovers, the Academy Museum is an unmissable, deeply immersive look behind the curtain of Hollywood, complete with authentic props, costumes, and the chance to accept a virtual Oscar. Its architecture and rooftop views make it rewarding even for casual visitors who simply love movies.
Opened in 2021, the Academy Museum celebrates film through immersive galleries, original costumes and props, archival treasures, and rotating exhibitions that explore directors, genres, and the craft behind the camera. Visitors can examine iconic objects, step into interactive experiences, and learn how movies are made and how Hollywood has shaped global culture. The museum also operates two theaters that screen films, from classics to new releases, often paired with special programming.
The building itself is a draw, combining the restored historic Saban Building (the former May Company department store) with a striking spherical addition designed by architect Renzo Piano. That glass-and-concrete sphere houses a theater and leads to the Dolby Family Terrace, which frames sweeping views toward the Hollywood Hills. A highlight for many guests is the Oscars Experience, a simulated walk to the stage to accept an Academy Award, underscoring the museum's deep ties to the film industry's biggest night.
History
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the organization that presents the Oscars, had envisioned a film museum for decades before the project finally came to fruition. After years of planning and construction that adapted the 1939 May Company building and added Renzo Piano's spherical structure, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures opened to the public in September 2021 as the largest museum in the United States devoted entirely to movies.
Insider Tips
- ✦Book timed tickets ahead, as popular slots sell out.
- ✦Head up to the Dolby Family Terrace for free Hollywood Hills views.
- ✦Budget extra time and money if you want the Oscars Experience.
Photo Tips
- 📸Shoot the glass sphere and the Dolby Family Terrace with the Hollywood Hills behind.
- 📸Capture the restored Art Deco lines of the historic Saban Building exterior.
- 📸Look for dramatic angles inside the spherical theater's lobby and walkways.
Before You Go
- ✓Reserve timed-entry tickets online in advance.
- ✓Check whether the Oscars Experience requires a separate ticket.
- ✓Look at the screening schedule if you want to catch a film in the theaters.
Visiting with family
Movie-loving families enjoy the interactive exhibits and the Oscars Experience, and the museum offers programming aimed at younger visitors.
Where to Eat Nearby
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Academy Museum of Motion Pictures FAQ
Who runs the Academy Museum?
It is operated by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the same organization that presents the Oscars.
Is the Academy Museum ticketed?
Yes, general admission is ticketed, with some experiences and screenings priced separately; check current pricing before visiting.
What is the Oscars Experience?
It is a simulated experience that lets you walk onstage and accept an Academy Award, often requiring a separate ticket.
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