Glendale, California, is a vibrant and cultural city that boasts a wide range of museums that are definitely worth a visit. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, or science enthusiast, there's a museum for everyone. In this article, we will take a look at the best museums near Glendale, their geo-locations, specific exhibit highlights, and what parking and accessibility are like.
Museum of Neon Art
The Museum of Neon Art (MONA) is a unique and exciting museum that celebrates the art and history of neon signs. Located just 4 miles from Glendale in Glendale, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in neon lights. The museum's exhibits showcase neon signs from different eras, as well as the art of neon bending. Highlights include the iconic "LAX" sign and the classic "Googie" architecture style. Parking is available nearby, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.
Autry Museum of the American West
The Autry Museum of the American West is a fascinating museum that explores the art, history, and culture of the American West. Located 9 miles from Glendale in Los Angeles, the museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from Native American art and artifacts to Hollywood Westerns. Highlights include the Gene Autry collection of cowboy memorabilia and the interactive "What is a Western?" exhibit. The museum offers ample parking and is accessible to those with disabilities.
Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is an iconic Los Angeles landmark that offers stunning views of the city and the stars. Located 11 miles from Glendale in Los Angeles, the observatory's exhibits cover astronomy, space exploration, and the history of the universe. Highlights include the Zeiss telescope, the Foucault pendulum, and the interactive "Centered in the Universe" exhibit. Parking can be challenging, but the observatory offers a shuttle service from the bottom of the hill. The observatory is also wheelchair accessible.
Norton Simon Museum
The Norton Simon Museum is a world-renowned art museum located 13 miles from Glendale in Pasadena. The museum's collection includes European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, as well as Asian art from India and Southeast Asia. Highlights include works by Rembrandt, Picasso, and Van Gogh, as well as the beautiful sculpture garden. Parking is available on-site, and the museum is accessible to those with disabilities.
Getty Center
The Getty Center is a stunning museum and cultural center located 16 miles from Glendale in Los Angeles. The museum's collection includes European paintings, drawings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the present, as well as photography and modern sculpture. Highlights include works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Cézanne, as well as the beautiful gardens and architecture. Parking is available on-site, and the museum is wheelchair accessible.
In conclusion, Glendale, California, is surrounded by some of the most interesting and engaging museums in the world. From the Museum of Neon Art to the Getty Center, there's a museum for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you discover some new museums to explore and learn from.