BERGAMOT STATION ARTS CENTER
A train station turned creative complex, Bergamot Station houses more than 40 galleries and cultural institutions. The multi-use space is also home to regular artistic events. Bergamot Station: 2525 Michigan Ave; 310-453-7535
THE GETTY CENTER
Architect Richard Meier’s iconic concrete and steel circular building holds a world-renowned collection of artworks, ranging from contemporary sculptures to illuminated manuscripts and photographs. Visitors will also enjoy the sweeping gardens and views of Los Angeles. The Getty Center: 1200 Getty Center Drive; 310-440-7300
THE GETTY VILLA
Unlike Meier’s ultra-modern Getty Center, the Getty Villa is designed to look like a first-century Roman country house. Fittingly, the collections include ancient Greek and Roman art and antiquities dating back nearly 7,000 years. The Getty Villa: 17985 Pacific Coast Highway; 310-440-7300
SANTA MONICA HISTORY MUSEUM
Dig into Santa Monica’s unique heritage with an interactive timeline, collections of archival photographs and artifacts (the city’s first newspaper, for example), and a rotating mix of exhibits. Tributes to the Santa Monica native, Shirley Temple, are frequent. Call in advance to schedule an informative group tour. Santa Monica History Museum: 1350 7th Street; (310) 395-2290
CAMERA OBSCURA ART LAB
Arts and crafts are definitely not just for children. At the Camera Obscura Art Lab, adults can get involved in workshops, classes and cultural programs. Learn to knit or dance the samba, take a watercolor class or practice printmaking. Camera Obscura Art Lab: 1450 Ocean Ave; 310-458-8644
THE BROAD STAGE
Catch a show at this 500-seat-theater, which has hosted performers ranging from Lil Buck to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Whether you’re interested in opera, poetry, lectures, or hip-hop, you can probably find something to suit your interests live at The Broad. The Broad Stage: 1310 11th St; 310-434-3200
18TH STREET ARTS CENTER
Public talks, block parties and art workshops are just a few of the ways visitors can enjoy their time at the 18th Street Arts Center. When there isn’t a special event on the calendar, visitors can peruse the center’s public galleries. 18th Street Arts Center: 1639 18th Street; 310-453-4347
WESTSIDE COMEDY THEATER
Improv, stand-up, and variety shows are always on tap at Westside Comedy. Well-known performers and up-and-comers keep audiences packed in. Westside Comedy Theater: 1323-A 3rd St, 310-451-0850.