The Broad Contemporary Art Museum

Overview of The Broad, Los Angeles, CA

The Broad is a striking contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles, known for its eye-catching “veil-and-vault” architecture and free general admission policy. Built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, it features nearly 2,000 works from the 1950s to the present, making it a vibrant cultural hub ideal for tourists, art enthusiasts, families, and locals alike. Whether you’re drawn by the innovative installations, the rotating exhibitions like Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Room, or the dynamic public programming, there’s something to inspire every visitor. Click here.

History of The Broad, Los Angeles, CA

The Broad opened on September 20, 2015, founded by Eli and Edythe Broad—with the mission to share their extensive collection of contemporary art via a distinctive building designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler. Rooted in the Broads’ philanthropic legacy and vision for a revitalized Grand Avenue arts district, the museum’s “veil-and-vault” concept merges expansive exhibition spaces with transparent views into the collection storage, anchoring the building’s architectural narrative. In earning LEED Gold certification in 2016, The Broad also underscores its commitment to sustainability with energy-efficient lighting, rainwater systems, EV charging, and green transit access. Its founding reflects not just an art museum, but a bold cultural statement in the heart of Los Angeles. Click here to read about Runyon Canyon Park, Los Angeles, CA.

Points of Interest

Infinity Mirror Room – Yayoi Kusama

Visitors step into one of the most immersive and Instagram-acclaimed installations in the world with Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Room: The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away. Expect to be enveloped by a mesmerizing environment of lights, reflective surfaces, and ethereal ambience—an attraction that draws crowds and captures the wonder of contemporary art in tactile form. It’s a sensory experience that enhances the museum’s allure, especially for those seeking interactive and emotional connection through art.

The Vault

Unique to The Broad, the Vault is the massive, opaque centerpiece that holds the museum’s extensive collection. Viewed through windows, this hidden storage element becomes part of the visitor journey, offering a literal and symbolic peek behind the scenes. It plays a central role in the architecture’s narrative while reinforcing the idea that art isn’t just displayed—it’s preserved and actively engaged with.

Featured Works by Iconic Artists

The Broad’s collection spans nearly 2,000 pieces by more than 200 artists, including high-profile names like Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Roy Lichtenstein, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Ed Ruscha. Each gallery presents deeply engaging works—like Warhol’s Single Elvis, Basquiat’s powerful canvases, and the mirrored Tulips by Koons—offering visitors both art historical depth and visual impact. These selections underscore the museum’s prestige within the post-war and contemporary art sphere.

Places to Eat Near The Broad

Otium

Located steps from The Broad’s plaza, Otium delivers a refined yet accessible dining experience under Chef Timothy Hollingsworth. The menu blends modern California cuisine with vibrant flavors and seasonal ingredients, all served in a stylish, airy space that welcomes locals, art lovers, and foodies alike. Its setting makes it a seamless complement to a museum visit—relaxed yet elevated, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Places to Visit Near The Broad

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Just across Grand Avenue, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a Frank Gehry masterpiece known for its sweeping stainless-steel curves and world-class acoustics. Visitors often wander over after viewing The Broad to catch a concert or just admire the architecture, making it both a visual marvel and cultural magnet that enriches the downtown experience.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Adjacent to The Broad, MOCA offers a complementary focus on contemporary art with rotating exhibitions and special programming. While The Broad emphasizes accessibility and architectural spectacle, MOCA delivers focused curations and experimental displays—together, they form a dynamic cultural duo that defines downtown L.A.’s artistic identity.

Practical Information

Location: 221 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012 — official site confirms.
Hours:
- Tues, Wed, Fri: 11 am–5 pm
- Thu: 11 am–8 pm
- Sat & Sun: 10 am–6 pm
- Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
Admission: General admission is always free for the permanent collection; timed tickets required for special exhibits like Infinity Mirror Room.
Architecture: Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro (with Gensler), featuring the signature “veil-and-vault” concept.
Sustainability: LEED Gold-certified; includes EV charging, rainwater management, and transit-friendly location.
Official website: https://www.thebroad.org

Expert General Contractor Los Angeles Services Powered by 1 Degree Construction

As a leader in general contractor Los Angeles projects, 1 Degree Construction delivers expert, efficient, and precise craftsmanship suited for both restoration of renowned cultural sites like The Broad and modern commercial builds downtown. With extensive experience navigating L.A.’s architectural vibrancy and regulatory landscape, our team ensures every project—from high-end museum spaces to cutting-edge urban developments—is executed with unmatched quality and attention to detail. Whether it’s creating gallery-ready finishes or optimizing building systems, count on our local expertise to bring your vision to life. Ready to transform your Los Angeles space? Explore our general contractor Los Angeles services.

Driving Directions

From The Broad to 1 Degree Construction office:

Start at The Broad (221 S. Grand Avenue), head south on Grand Ave toward 3rd Street.
Turn right onto 3rd Street, passing by the Walt Disney Concert Hall on the left.
Continue straight and take a left onto Figueroa Street, traveling south.
Pass Pershing Square on your right, then at 8th Street, turn right.
Drive two blocks and then turn left onto Olive Street.
1 Degree Construction will be visible on the right-hand side, marked by our signage and lobby entrance.