The Autry Museum of the American West, located in Los Angeles, California, is a cultural institution dedicated to exploring the diverse history of the American West. Established in 1988, the museum offers a variety of exhibitions and public programs such as lectures, films, theater performances, festivals, family events, and music. In addition to these, the museum also engages in scholarship, research, and educational outreach.
The Autry Museum of the American West operates two sites that are approximately 8 miles (13 km) apart. In 2022, the museum inaugurated a storage facility in Burbank, California, to house its collections and those of the Southwest Museum of the American Indian. This facility also includes a ritual space where indigenous people can use items from the collection in ceremonies.
The Autry Museum of the American West is situated in Griffith Park, directly opposite the Los Angeles Zoo. The Parks Gallery, a 4,000-square foot space, was renovated in 2013 and is now organized into three thematic areas: Religion and Ritual, Land and Landscape, Migration and Movement. The main location also features two mini galleries that host rotating exhibits.
History & Anthropology Ethnology Religion Historic house
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Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles
No exhibitions in Autry Museum of the American West have been found.
Autry Museum of the American West has 2 ratings.
The Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles offers visitors a comprehensive look at the history and culture of the American West. Many visitors appreciate the diverse collection of artifacts, artwork, and exhibits that showcase the complex narrative of the region. The museum's strengths lie in its ability to present multiple perspectives, including those of Native Americans, settlers, and various ethnic groups that shaped the West.
Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from cowboy culture and Western films to Native American art and the Gold Rush era. The museum's commitment to telling a more inclusive story of the West is often praised. The Ethnobotanical Garden and the "Collecting Memories" interactive exhibit are frequently mentioned as highlights.
However, some visitors note that certain areas of the museum could benefit from updates or expansion. A few reviewers mention that the layout can be confusing at times, and signage could be improved to enhance navigation. While many find the content engaging, others suggest that some exhibits could be more interactive to appeal to younger audiences.
The museum's special exhibitions and events are generally well-received, adding fresh content to the permanent collection. The gift shop is popular among visitors, offering a good selection of books and Western-themed merchandise.
Accessibility is generally good, with the museum being wheelchair-friendly. The staff is often described as knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the overall experience for many visitors.
While the Autry Museum may not be as large as some other Los Angeles museums, it provides a focused and informative experience for those interested in Western history and culture. Its location in Griffith Park is convenient for many visitors, though some mention limited parking during busy times.
Overall, the Autry Museum of the American West offers a solid educational experience that appeals to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and those curious about the diverse stories of the American West.
After many years of living in Glendale, I was finally able to visit this gem of a museum! Very interesting and informative, especially the dresses of American West & the large collection of firearms of that era !!! Unfortunately, it ended in a very bad vibe at closing time because of this uncivil & rude behavior of the doorman named Calvin Speight( ?) , who tried hustling our group out of the front grounds, despite the fact that we had a handicapped person who could only move slowly on her roller !! Even After pointing this to him, his behavior was akin to a “black Nazi” ordering us out in a very belligerent manner! Very bad experience at the end of the visit, left a sour taste of the entire visit! Calvin should be trained properly for dealing respectfully with the visitors and public or removed from such a position! Nasty person , this employee Calvin , of Autry Museum ☹️. Jay
Visited on 20 Jun 2023
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