Hi sunshine,
After living in Los Angeles for over five years, I finally made a visit to the famous Urban Lights exhibit at LACMA earlier this summer!
It’s been on my bucket list for so long now, and I’m happy Doug and I finally checked it off. It was absolutely breathtaking and unlike anything we’d ever seen before. And yes, it made for some beautiful photos (some of my favorite we’ve ever taken!).
Since the LACMA Urban Lights exhibit is such a famous #instagramworthy landmark, I wanted to share some tips on how to get your best pics here! Scroll below to see all of the photos Doug and I took, and the 3 things you need to know before you visit this gorgeous exhibit (get driving directions here).
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3 Things To Know Before You Take Photos At The LACMA Urban Lights Exhibit
1. The Urban Lights Exhibit is Free
While admission to the LACMA is not free, visiting the Urban Lights exhibit is! The Urban Lights exhibit is open to the public and free to all visitors. The only thing you’ll need to pay for is parking (or not if you use my hack below).
2. Arrive between sunrise and 9am
The LACMA Urban Lights Exhibit is such a popular locals and tourist spot, so getting there early is crucial. This exhibit is swarmed with people all day, and especially mid-day to late night.If you want to create gorgeous photos like the ones you see on Instagram, you’re going to need to go at a time where there are as few people there as possible.
Doug and I arrived at the LACMA exhibit around 8am on a Sunday morning, and there was only one other couple there taking engagement photos. It was the perfect setting, and the lighting was stunning! I didn’t have to photoshop any people out of my photos, and that is a blessing.
Make sure to show up between sunrise and 9am to ensure you’re getting the best backdrop for your photos.
3. Parking can be a challenge
Like most places in Los Angeles, finding parking can be rough. There is an underground garage located behind the exhibit at W 6th St, which is $12-$15 before 7pm and free after 7pm.
There is also metered parking on Wilshire Blvd, which is where I parked. The metered parking along Wilshire Blvd is free on Sundays, and there was tons of open spots where Doug and I got there around 8am.
Outfit details: Cowl back pleated dress, $72 (wearing a size 12) | Hot pink strappy sandals, $33 | Pale pink bow clutch, $20 | Teal drop thread earrings, similar for $16
Have you ever visited the LACMA Urban Lights exhibit? I’d love to hear your tips and see your pics (tag me on Instagram!).
Thanks so much for reading and sharing.
