Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

Visiting the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures feels like stepping into an encyclopedia of cinema. The building itself, designed by legendary Italian architect Renzo Piano, is stunning - particularly the glass-sphere “dome” that houses the Dolby Family Terrace. If you go close to sunset, the view of the Hollywood Hills is truly memorable. Inside, the museum is spacious, modern, and thoughtfully laid out. What impressed me most was how immersive the exhibits are: iconic props, costumes, and behind-the-scenes artifacts are paired with interactive displays and detailed storytelling. The “Stories of Cinema” galleries are especially well done. They don’t just showcase film history - they dive into the craft, personalities, and innovations that shaped different eras. Fans of classic films, contemporary blockbusters, or global cinema will all find something that speaks to them. The Oscar Experience is a fun little extra. It’s cheesy in the best possible way - you step onto a stage, hear your name announced, and “receive” your award. It’s a guilty-pleasure moment that almost everyone seems to enjoy. Too bad Los Angeles is no longer the capital of Cinema nowadays, as the industry has moved elsewhere due to the high costs and taxation here in California.

I loved this museum! My husband and I are big movie buffs and enjoyed reading about the history of movies. We especially liked the Jaws exhibit. I was told we could get through the exhibit in a couple of hours, but we were there from 10:30- closing. We visited on a Sunday and even though it was busy, it wasn’t overcrowded. Get there early so you have time to see all the exhibits and especially if you want to watch one of the movies being shown. If you are really into movies, I recommend a trip to this museum.