Hammer Museum

Industrialist Armand Hammer founded this museum in 1990, primarily to house his own collection, and it opened just three weeks before he died. Now, the free, UCLA partner institution stages fascinating shows of modern art, photography and design, often with an emphasis on local artists—notably the biennial “Made in L.A.” exhibition. The shows are supplemented by the Hammer’s public events calendar (arguably one of the best in the city), chock full of free lectures, concerts and screenings. Lulu, the Hammer’s sophisticated courtyard restaurant from Alice Waters and David Tanis, offers market-driven, upscale-casual fare.