Forest Lawn Museum

I love a good cemetery and Forest Lawn Memorial-Park is a gem. I read up on the history of the cemetery before visiting. The "Builder" achieved a unique, art filled experience that's beautiful and enjoyable to explore.

I9 Youth Sports was invited here for a charity run. The venue is beautiful and the staff is friendly. I never knew there is a museum at the top

Free hidden gem, actually cool. They have a permanent area in the front with beautiful statues and art, and in the back they change up the art every six months. Ample parking. Great views of the city, too.

Forest Lawn impressed us with 2 magnificent paintings: Cruxifiction (60m wide) and Resurrection (21m wide).

One of the most beautiful, spiritual, And awe inspiring experiences I’ve ever had the honor and privilege to indulge and bask in. Which is saying a lot. One of my favorite places on earth. Sacred and Hallowed ground. A testament not only to self development, but also to the ability we have as a species to band together working toward a common goal while building upon the blocks of our ancestors and previous generations.

Very much an underrated art museum. The front of the museum is mostly an American history exhibit. The back room contains seasonable exhibitions. Free admission. Great hilltop view of LA.

It's a very quiet place. The museum has a lot of collections, some of which are in the cemetery. The panoramic painting of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection is exquisite a The bronze replica of David is outdoors and I am sure there will be a different experience than the original indoors. No tickets are required.

Quiet serene calm peaceful sanctuary off a busy Main Street. If the large gates are any indication , there is so much space beyond it that you will never feel rushed or crowded. Went in here to see the museum but the grounds are equally splendid. Small museum with a few select exhibits but the star of course in the panorama and you’ll know when you go check out the show. Amazing views from the museum. And the handy Bloomberg Connects guide can be used on your phone for a self guided tour of the entire park. Plenty of benches in select spots for you to sit down and take a minute to marvel this is in the heart of LA!

What a beautiful museum. Yes Forest Lawn Memorial Parks has a fantastic museum. They rotate exhibits every quarter to keep it fresh. Currently they are featuring flowers in Bloom. This exhibit complements the regular pieces that are generally featured Along with a small store I found thus a charming place and who can beat the value . . . Completely free. It makes for a nice day with many interesting pieces. A hidden jewel.

I've been coming here for decades and always enjoy the grounds and all the Churchs / Chapels, my favorite being Wee Kirk of the heather...think I may have misspelled that. The museum has very nice exhibits and also its regular collection is well worth a visit to see. On the north side of the Museum is a very good panoramic view of Glendale and Burbank. Entry is free, which is certainly nice. They have a souvenir gift shop with nice reproductions of featured art and other assorted items. Forest Lawn was owned by The Llewelyn family but may have changed hands after the passing of John Llewelyn a few years ago, who took over after his father Fred passed. The place was founded by Hubert Eaton who purchased what was called "Tropico", a cemetery behind the current mortuary building. It's a long story, but Forest Lawn was started there, some don't " get it" the concept of a place for the living, but it's got some great art and history to be enjoyed. This review is for the museum but there is much more to see aside from the museum. I'll give a review of the Hollywood Hills location and some other facets of this interesting resting place at a later time.

A hidden gem built right into the middle of a cemetery. When I learned that there was a museum in the middle of Forest Lawn Cemetery, I was intrigued and had to see it for myself. I couldn't have been more pleasantly surprised by the museum. Not only did they have a ton(!) of free parking there, an absolutely unbeatable view from the mountaintop, and it was also nearly empty. My wife and I felt like we almost had the place to ourselves! They seem to consistently have a rotating exhibition in the main building, with a small but pretty killer permanent collection of marble statues in the front section. When we went the most recent time, they had a beautiful collection of stained glass windows, all hundreds of years old. And while of that was amazing, probably the most unique thing I remember is the absolutely gigantic panoramic piece housed in its own building. The building to the left of the main museum space is built especially for this single work of art, and man is it impressive - both the building and the artwork! This place is worth a visit. I come out everytime they change exhibitions.

I've passed Forest Lawn so many times on my commute down the 2 Freeway, but I'd never entered until today when a group of friends and I went on a tour of the museum and mausoleum. After driving through the massive grounds of the cemetery, up a hill, we arrived at the museum. The view Glendale and Burbank from the top was fantastic! Entry to the museum was free, and our tour guide, Harrison, was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The permanent and temporary art was great to see. I especially enjoyed some of the huge contemporary stained glass pieces. Don't let the fact that this is in a cemetery stop you from checking it out!

Forest Lawn Museum (est 1952) is a small museum that is home to rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection of painting, sculpture, stained glass, and more. It's located within the northern most part of F.L. Cemetery in Glendale. Who knew?! Right? L0L. I arrived on a breezy Sunday noon in the year 2023 of October. I spent an hour to fully explore the museum. The best part of this museum was it has free admission, the huge free parking lot and impeccable view of the valley. As an art enthusiast I thoroughly enjoyed exploring this museum. And I highly recommend you visit.

A museum inside a cemetery? Who knew? I, myself was very much surprised to find out. As you enter the gate, you can actually ask the guard for directions. I did exactly that and was handed a map showing the different places inside Forest Lawn. There's lots of parking available. The museum itself is small but you'll find interesting things on display. The museum rotates exhibits to highlight different artists and their works so there's always a reason to revisit. While the museum, the Hall of resurrection across is huge! It's actually an auditorium where I saw the biggest paintings I've ever seen, the Crucifixion. I got goosebumps when I watched the video explaining the different scenes in the painting. It's a must to see! Between the museum and the auditorium is a veranda where you'll see a fantastic view of downtown Los Angeles and the valley.

A gorgeous cemetery and place to visit to see the crucifixion painting . The 20 min presentation really did a beautiful job of transporting you back in time . Make sure to visit the beautiful stained glass Last Supper art as well . The grounds are gorgeous and well kept and you can see a beautiful sunset from the upper lawn by the hall that includes the last supper art piece .

Always appreciate free admission and support of local artists. Serene location. Don't let the idea of a cemetery influence your decision not to visit.

I've been coming to different exhibits here for a long time. Always excellent. I find new artists and learn something with every visit. Not only is the art magical but the location is too. The views are stunning as are the grounds. A very peaceful place. Beautiful greenery and trees. Huge gigantic awe inducing trees all over the place. I also find fun things in the museum store. We had the pleasure of speaking with Harrison yesterday. He was very polite, knowledgeable and fun to chat with. What a treasure this museum is. And it's free. That's just very awesome. Thank you for being a magical place for all to enjoy. The living and the deceased.

I visited Forest Lawn Cemetery with some family a couple of weeks ago. We started at the Museum. Unfortunately, they were about to open their new exhibit, so we couldn't see much at all (just a front room with a few sculptures and the gift shop). Bad timing! But we were also able to grab maps of the property (an art map was very helpful) there and ask some questions in the gift shop about what we should make a point to check out while exploring. I'd be happy to check it out again when they have an exhibit open.

Whoever knew that there would be a museum at a cemetery? On this particular day, my partner and I decided to make a stop at the museum because of their Immersive World of Panoramas exhibit. The museum is perched on top of a hill above the main campus of Forest Lawn. Once you're inside, it feels like you're inside a cathedral hall. There are various paintings, sculptures, and dioramas that have a religious overtone reflecting spirituality and the afterlife. The view of the cityscape is also breathtaking. Also, check out the little gift shop inside after your visit. There are many cute trinkets and items that are interesting.

I went to Forest Lawn Museum recently to see the the Bob Baker Marionette: 60 Years of Joy and Wonder exhibit. I enjoyed my time there. The exhibit was perfect. The staff were friendly. The museum space is nice and I liked seeing all that was on display.

AN ABSOLUTELY MUST DO! 5 STARS! A FREE EVENT CELEBRATING THE 60th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BOB BAKER MARIONETTE THEATER, FREE ADMISSION, FREE ENTERTAINMENT, FREE PARKING, FREE FOOD, FREE BEVERAGES, & FREE DESSERTS! NOW, HOW CAN YOU BEAT THAT? I LEFT HERE STUFFED! HONESTLY, THIS WAS THE BEST TIME I'VE EVER HAD AT A CEMETERY! LOL! Now the opening bash is all over. The Good News is it's still Free Admission for the Puppet exhibition & the Museum & Resurrection Hall too. The is all on display until March 19 2023. & there's still Free Parking also. Don't miss this. The exhibit includes vintage puppets, old school videos, posters & photos including Elvis, Spielberg & Lil' Nas X & many others. They have the largest oil painting on canvas in the entire world. You have to see it! IT'S GINORMOUS! From the moment you pull up to those Humungous Gates that are taller than Buckingham Palace you know this is not an ordinary cemetery. As a matter of fact they don't even call it a Cemetery it's called Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The Museum was celebrating the 60th Anniversary of The Bob Baker Marionette Theater. Now instead of Doom & Gloom that's usually associated with a Cemetery Forest Lawn in Glendale is trying to uplift the community with Art, Joy, Beauty & Happiness. As you drove up to the Museum & park you could see the festivities & the balloons. For the special occasion they had a DJ from OK Go. They also put on 2 great Free Puppet Shows with lots of Happy Faces in the audience from young to old. After the show you could meet the puppets close up. They had a huge spread of Free Food with hors-d'oeuvres, cheese & crackers Cookies, Cakes, Popcorn, Cotton Candy Beverages & Ice Cream & more. Afterwards you could visit the Art they have in the Museum & see some of their classic puppets too. The exhibit is called 60 Years of Joy & Wonder. When Bob was a child he started creating puppets in the 1930's. He opened his first marionette theater in 1963. This display pulls back the velvet curtain so you can see how some of the magic is created. These classic Bob Baker puppets have worked with the most elite in Hollywood. The King of Rock n Roll himself Elvis Presley, actress & legendary dancer Juliet Prowse, Judy Garland, Walt Disney, The 3 Stooges, Liberace, filmmaker Steven Spielberg, Red Skelton, musicians Lil Nas X, Harry Styles & many others have all worked with Bob Baker. The exhibit features hand-crafted marionettes, there's an animatronic band, some original concept art, rare pictures & more! Most people actually forgot they were at a Cemetery because of having so much fun. They were all very respectful though. After visiting the exhibition you can also check out the gift store that is attached. There are also other sculptures like Abraham Lincoln in the museum as well. Afterwards head next door, you have to check out The Crucifixion painting, by Polish artist Jan Styka from the early 1900's. It is a massive art piece hanging on the wall at 195 foot wide & 45 foot tall. IT IS AMAZING! They also have a smaller Resurrection piece by American artist Robert Claras as an accompaniment painting. The Museum is open Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM- 5 PM. All this Fun & Learning & IT'S All FREE! It used to be, you had to have Mega Bucks & be really Rich to have the Good Life, not anymore. The Game has changed. You've been Upgraded. Now You Can Live Like a King on a Limited Budget!

This place is to die for. It is this whole other side of LA you don't see. Total pun intended. Great exhibit going on right now at this museum on the Judson stained glass studios. Free entry and lots sculpture and art all around. There is a ginormous and truly amazing painting in the auditorium of the Cruxification, literally the best kept secret in LA. The painting is 195 feet long x 45 feet high. Go on the guided tours and they might show how the curtain will close half way and another picture appears and that will be of the ascension. Painted by Polish artist Jan Styka, it was originally brought by Styka to the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis in 1904. You can read the rest at https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://forestlawn.com/exhibits/the-hall-of-crucifixion-resurrection/&ved=2ahUKEwjWu6WE8tbyAhVKV80KHdFJAvMQFnoECBMQAQ&usg=AOvVaw3q8492tbmy5hEanZzMt-sX&cshid=1630263147133

An awesome (and free) museum, hidden within Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 AM - 5 PM. EXHIBITS: It's not big but it isn't tiny either. They switch up their exhibitions and also have some lovely permanent pieces. I was enamored with the two statues by Ildebrando Bastiani (Wings of Beauty and Dreams by the Sea). There is also a beautiful area in the back of the museum (outside). Multiple statues and gorgeous views. HALL OF CRUCIFIXION-RESURRECTION: Additionally, make sure you go into the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection (the building next door). It has some beautiful pieces of stained glass but most importantly, holds the largest religious painting ever created. The Crucifixion by Jan Styka is huge. You need to use your phone's panorama mode to capture it. I understand that they do some sort of audio presentation throughout the day but luckily, the curtains were open when I came by and I got to view the painting without waiting for the presentation to begin. MAUSOLEUM: Make sure you see the mausoleum (open for public viewing from 9 AM - 430 PM). It's in a separate area from the museum and you have to drive a couple minutes. I saw a few references to it within the museum but it didn't quite prepare me for what I was about to see. First of all, there is a large stained glass recreation of Da Vinci's The Last Supper. There are also multiple replicas of Michelangelo's famous works. FYI: The cemetery does have a David replica but it's in a different place (outside). I tried to see it but there was a funeral nearby, with lots of people in the road. I felt uneasy and ended up turning around. Back to the mausoleum. There are lots of beautiful statues all around so make sure you see it all. Just remember, this is an actual functional mausoleum and you are surrounded by real humans that have ceased to be. I'm not sure if photos are allowed (probably not). The last thing I'll say is -- make sure you go downstairs. There is a small area that is less religious, even secular. It's called The Poet's Windows. It has beautiful stained glass imagery coupled with charming poetry (Tennyson, etc.). This juxtaposition even brought a tear to my eye, it was so lovely. MUSEUM GIFT SHOP: Cute gift shop with a surprisingly nice selection. FRIENDLY SERVICE: I briefly spoke with the woman working at the gift shop (she was the only staff member I encountered at the museum). I had some questions about other sights and she was extremely friendly and helpful, providing me with a brochure/map. I also spoke with someone at the cemetery lobby and received the same friendly and helpful treatment. GETTING THERE: There is ample signage within the cemetery but you can also stop at the cemetery lobby and ask for a map. PARKING: Very large parking area for the museum. The mausoleum has a parking area as well. The whole cemetery is really beautiful and oddly uplifting. It sounds insensitive to say that when you're visiting for a leisurely reason, I'm sure. However, the cemetery's founder intended for the space to signal a beginning and not an end. His intention was to create a space where "lovers new and old shall love to stroll and watch the sunset's glow, planning for the future or reminiscing of the past; a place where artists study and sketch; where schoolteachers bring happy children to see the things they read of in books..." He didn't want doom and gloom, he wanted sunshine and inspiration. I'd say he succeeded.

So cute!!! The Bob Baker exhibit was precious. So glad I got to see it while it was still here. Museum is free and the surrounding cemetery is gorgeous. So peaceful.

Here at Forest Lawn Cemetery Museum for the 'Stained Glass-From Gothic to Street Art' Exhibit You don't want to miss this! I'll let my photos speak for themselves

I'm always a fan of free things to do! The Forest Lawn Museum is at the top of the hill. There are a number of well-placed signs that you follow as you drive up. Once you see a large building with a white cross, you are almost there! The museum is directly to the right. When you get close to the museum, you'll see that there is a good-sized parking lot. The museum itself is not very big. However, I like that there's different parts to check out. The entrance has a lot of statues. The middle of the museum is the museum gift store. Once you walk through the museum, you'll see the rotating exhibit (I visited the peanuts gallery, a.k.a Charlie Brown and Snoopy), The Peanuts Museum was interesting. Most of it was reproduction comic strips. However, there was also a video playing in the background, areas to take pictures, and of course there are opportunities to sit on benches. If you step outside of the museum, you can take in the a great view of Glendale!

Really great museum! Beautiful art pieces and A/C full blast on a hot summer day. Not many people there during the time we visited. There is a patio area toward the back with some chairs & benches + vending machines. Cute little gift shop in the middle of the museum. Great prices! Must visit :) friendly staff at the desk who gave us some recommendations of other places to visit.

Pretty cool small museum. I got lucky and got to check out their world cup show set. They switch it out every so often and show different themes. They have some very beautiful pieces of art. I enjoyed how it was small, personal and quiet. You can really take it the essence of the pieces.

A local's free secret!!! I've come to several of their temporary exhibits, always free, always entertaining, always something new to learn! Their permanent collection is beautiful & well worth a visit of it's own right. I feel so spoiled this free gem is in my neighborhood! The employees are so sweet & helpful. The gift shop has great items FYI this is the best view you'll have of Downtown Glendale! To make the drive easier I suggest using your GPS, as the last left turn up doesn't have a sign.

What an awesome part of Forest Lawn! This building complex comprises the museum and the Hall of the Crucifixion-Resurrection. We unfortunately didn't get to see the museum, but the Hall is amazing in its own right. The front of the Hall is built like a cathedral, in a style inspired by cathedrals of old. Inside, stained glass panels depicting the life of Christ are on display. These panels were made in 1913 by Franz Meyer & Co. in Munich, Germany, and used to be part of St. Joseph's Catholic Cathedral in Buffalo, New York. But the main attraction is The Crucifixion, an enormous 195 by 45 feet panoramic painting depicting an elaborate scene during the imminent crucifixion of Christ. Unveiled in 1897 by artist Jan Styka, the painting has quite the storied history, particularly in 1904 when the painting was on its way to the St. Louis Exposition. Let's just say that you know your business partners suck when they fail to pay customs tax and your giant painting gets seized by U.S. customs. The painting was found in 1944, abandoned in the basement of the Chicago Civic Opera Company. It was later acquired by Hubert Eaton, the founder of Forest Lawn, who commissioned it to be restored by Styka's son, Adam Styka. The Hall of the Crucifixion was completed in 1951 to be a permanent place where the painting could be displayed. The painting now rests behind a curtain and is unveiled during a video presentation explaining its history. It's like watching a segment on the History Channel - not always the most exciting, but interesting in its own way. The Resurrection, a painting commissioned by Forest Lawn, is also shown in this theater. As with everything else at Forest Lawn, admission is free.

Los Angeles is filled with a plethora of museums: art, technology, neon lights, punishment, science, history, the Holocaust, classic cars... You name it, LA seems to have it. But have you ever thought of a museum containing medieval art, religious relics, and rotating exhibits being located in a cemetery? No? Well, behold the Forest Lawn Museum at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale. The Forest Lawn Museum is certainly a hidden gem in LA. It can best be described by my boyfriend, who stated that although he was born and raised in LA, he was never aware of this museum. Located on the top of a hill at the cemetery; Forest Lawn Museum is a charming, peaceful, and down-right fun dosage of art in the unexpected location of the cemetery. Open everyday (except Tuesdays) from 9-5; the museum is attractive not only for its art but for its price tag: FREE! You can't ask for more in this economy! Although calling this spot a museum may be stretching it (it is essentially three large rooms); the real estate is used to prime advantage with lots of pieces which are well displayed and yet bright, airy, and and accessible. The first room features rotating exhibits which, during my visit, was "The Art of Brick" which included large, amazing Lego sculptures. The museum had just the right amount of pieces to make the trip worthwhile but yet not overwhelm the viewer. For Lego lovers, such as myself, this exhibit is heaven. The second room features a medieval world (aside from Legos, I also LOVE anything Medieval); displaying two 14th century suits of armors, throne chairs, stained glass, etc. Despite its small size, there is no museum in LA like this room so it is sure to please. The third room offers bronze and marble sculptures of animals, famous figures, mythological personas, and a Tiki head from Easter Island; before leading to a back patio filled with flowers, a fountain, and absolutely glorious views of Glendale. It is so quiet, peaceful, and clean; that one will forget they are in a city filled with millions of people. Parking is bountiful and there are tables available for picnics plus of course plenty of opportunities for photos. The only downside? Photos are strictly prohibited within the museum. Although, I snuck photos which the security guard and the girl at the gift shop desk must have surely seen but I was not reprimanded. Whew! The Forest Lawn Museum is must-see, free adventure for those young and old when looking for a respite. Heck, it's even great for tourists due to the beautiful views and architecture. Don't let your fear of cemeteries deter you!

This museum came to my attention because it is rumored that there is a painting by William Adolphe Bouguereau at Forest Lawn Museum. I owe it to a posted image by Brittany B. on Yelp. She confirmed that I'd find "Song of the Angels" :http://www.wikiart.org/en/william-adolphe-bouguereau/song-of-the-angels-1881 is actually at Forest Lawn Museum. The first time I made the trek from San Diego to Glendale I was met with BIG disappointment. There was a special exhibit and their permanent collection was not on display. Devastated! BE SURE TO CALL (800) 204-3131 and ask to talk to the museum gift shop to CHECK what is on view. The second time I visited Forest Lawn Museum I was delighted to see an amazing painting that is nearly 134 years old and is extremely lovely and breathtaking. This artist was truly gifted and I'm on a quest to see as many of his paintings as a possible. This location also has an Easter island head, an ENORMOUS painting titled the Crucifixion by Jan Styka that is displayed on the hour except during the lunch hour. Call for more info. The museum also has a replica of the bronze doors from the Florence Baptistery by Lorenzo Ghiberti: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorenzo_Ghiberti, but they were not on display the day we visited. There are lovely statues everywhere and you can also visit a stained glass reproduction of Leonardo Da Vinci's - The Last Supper in the Memorial Court of Honor. This is also where Elizabeth Taylor was laid to rest. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_Lawn_Memorial_Park_(Glendale) Visit the Forest Lawn Museum but be sure to call to check on what art is being displayed. Free to visit and free parking. Small but worth it especially if the Bouguereau is on view!

Visited 1/16/2016 Came here to see the exhibit called Leading Ladies from Fantasy to Reality. It explores the world of female heroines. It presented Disney princesses to world leaders. There were watercolor, digital, oils, sculptures, animation and photographs. Many different artists. Walt Disney Animation Studios provided many artworks. Afterward, we went next door to The Hall of the Crucifixion-Resurrection. Inside there's a large auditorium. This hall was specifically built in order to hang the picture of the Crucifixion. The painting is HUMONGOUS!! All I could think and say was "WOW"!! You got to see this painting to experience the awesomeness of the length! After the Crucifixion painting, you get to see the Resurrection. That painting is about 1/4 the size of the Crucifixion. There's a interesting video you get to watch which explains both pictures. Takes less than half hour. All this is free and abundant parking. Interesting drive through the cemetery/memorial before you get to the museum. Many statues along the way. The grounds are well kept.

I was a little curious, and a little reluctant, as to wait we'd experience at a cemetery museum, but I couldn't have been more wrong. The Matthew Brandt exhibit was outstanding and beautifully curated.

Wow - not only was the David Bowie exhibit free it was on the beautiful grounds of Forest Lawn. There are statues and art throughout the cemetery. The Last Supper in stained glass was also magnificent. It may sound creepy but it's anything but. It's a beautiful place and the museum is at the top with spectacular views and European style churches. Hard to believe your in Glendale.

The most visible landmark of Glendale, especially at night, is the lighted Cross on the mountain-top at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park premises. The Cross is on top of a building that looked like a Cathedral on a ridge overlooking the city of Glendale towards the north and Los Angeles towards the south. I didn't have anything scheduled the rest of the day this Saturday, so after I visited my Mother & my sister's grave, I decided to drive up to the mountain-top to check out the view. The road signs indicated directions to the Museum, so I realized that there's a Museum up there. I normally don't loiter around a cemetery, simply because usually there are lots of dead people buried in there. However, I had a change of attitude and already got used to going to a cemetery, since my sister passed away over a decade ago and our beloved Mother only recently. Anyway, I belatedly found out that the Cathedral was not a cathedral, but a part of the museum called the Hall of the Crucifixion-Resurrection. The Crucifixion is a magnificent painting by a noted Polish artist named Jan Styka, It's a very large canvas painting that measured 195-feet wide and 45-feet high. The Resurrection was another masterpiece painted by an American artist named Robert Clark. The other museum exhibits are in the other adjacent building. There is no entrance fee and there's a big parking lot. Another terrific sight at this mountain-top is the view to the valley below. I took some pictures with my cellphone camera, but I'll be coming back here to take better pictures with my digital camera another time I'll have to re-visit this Museum again next time, with ample time to view the rest of the exhibits.

Driving here is a little confusing. It's located right next to a church and a cemetery. You have to keep driving up to the top otherwise you will get lost driving around the cemetery. I came here for the Drew and Bob- The Masters of Movie art exhibit. It was interesting and if you are lucky, you will bump into Bob's son who will tell you about his dad's legacy and give you some fun facts. The artwork is awesome and they are really gifted and talented artists. You will see a lot of familiar movie art. In the next gallery, there are random older sculptures and art pieces from different artists. It's free and a good place to visit!

This museum is free, has plenty of parking (which is also free), and rotates its exhibits regularly. It's kind of a win-win-win. I came here on a Sunday morning, and was surprised by how empty it was, however, I was glad because a crowded museum makes for a less enjoyable experience. I only saw a few other people during the hour or so that I was there. Although, the staff seemed to be enjoying the quiet a little too much and gabbing it up thus ruining my zen, but 30-somethings will be 30-somethings, I suppose. Aside from hearing way too much about the store clerk's and security guard's personal lives, the museum was excellent. The Movie Poster exhibit was amazing: seeing the artwork from familiar posters was great. I had no idea that so many memorable posters were actually drawn and not photographs (especially the ones by Drew Struzan). And the sculptures were beautiful, it's hard to believe so many were made over a hundred years ago and still look flawless. The Lego art was not as impressive to me, but it was still interesting to see how someone created lamps and tables out of Legos. I'll definitely be returning to the Forest Lawn Museum, and highly recommend it. One of the things I was glad I was told before going, and will now share with you, my fellow yelpers, is that the museum is in a cemetery. So be respectful of mourners, and don't get too freaked out as you drive past graves.

Great place to visit on a Sunday afternoon without crowds. Interesting art exhibits. Free parking with beautiful scenery.

I didn't know Forest Lawn Museum existed until I came here for the A Million and One Pieces by David Tracy exhibit. The exhibit was a lot smaller than I expected. We were done within 10 minutes. I went on the opening reception day and it was pretty fun. I got to see David Tracy's modern contemporary furniture, mostly lamps, made from lego bricks. I was so cool! Each piece required about 65,000 pieces of legos depending on size. We were so curious that we even searched how to create one of these. David was there that night for a meet and greet as well. It was nice to see him speak about his work. Forest Lawn Museum has a small but beautiful courtyard. The view is great as well. I love the Glendale city lights! Getting here was a bit difficult. In order to get to the museum you have to drive all the way to the top. You will see a big lot for parking and a building with "MUSEUM" on top. Parking is free!

The uphill drive through the cemetery to get to this museum is breathtaking. You'll observe numerous statues and/or fountains. Several people were pulling off the road to get pictures, but the view from the museum parking lots was even more amazing. One side offers a Birdseye view of the cemetery and another features a view of LA. Admission and parking were free. They have a huge parking lot. The museum itself is small, containing several bronze statues. I also went inside the basilica next door and saw some of the most beautiful stained-glass windows I have ever seen. Unfortunately photography is not allowed inside either building, so the images will have to stay burned in my memory.

The only downside of this museum is the gas you burn getting UP the hill! Went for the Lego exhibit which was really interesting. I didn't realize there was a full on museum up there and they have some really nice pieces, as well as nice recreations of very famous pieces. The view alone is worth it.

After spending a few hours seeing most of the cemetery's gorgeous statuary yesterday, we visited this small but wonderful museum. It has two large rooms, of which one contains the permanent collection (which primarily consists of many beautiful [mostly small] statues). The other room has temporary exhibits and the current exhibit just opened two days ago. It's called "L.A. Woman", and the artwork (by many women) is beautiful.

Interesting small museum in Forest Lawn. If you like museums at all, you'll probably like this one. It's, again, fairly small, but contains a nice little collection. It should't take you more than about 20 minutes to peruse everything, or at most, an hour to reaaaally read about everything and observe every detail. There was a part of it that was closed when we went several months ago, not sure if it's still like that, though. I would check it out once if you are the museum-going type, particularly because it is admission free. I don't know if I'd make a special trip there myself just to see the museum, but if you're going to Forest Lawn anyway, then definitely. Overall, Forest Lawn has beautiful grounds, statues, etc., so I do feel like there is something there for just about everyone to enjoy. Parking is plentiful as well.

This whole place is super BEAUTIFUL. I randomly ended up going here after searching for "things to do for free" near Highland Park on Yelp. It is unlike any other cemetery I've ever seen. 1. Parking and museum admission is FREE! 2. The drive through the cemetery is amazing. You have to drive upwards to get to the museum but along the way, you will see a lot of awesome sculptures. 3. The museum has everything from bronze sculptures to an Easter Island Maori to stained glass windows to a painting of Abraham Lincoln giving his Gettysburg address. 4. You must check out the Eyvind Earle exhibit in the back before it's gone Jan. 2017! The patience he must have for a lot of his paintings - just amazing! Never thought I'd be so fascinated by tiny colorful dots. The fact that he also worked some of the art in Disney films such as Sleeping Beauty is awesome. 5. You will definitely need more than 2 hours to really get a good look through everything they have here!! It wasn't enough for me :( Definitely would come here again to check out the rest of the cemetery!

Six Stars if I could. I love small museums. This is a small museum and the quality of the art and the presentation of the art is absolutely phenomenal!!! Yes Pheenomenal!!! There are shows set for a few months and I can hardly wait for the the next one, Oh, and I want to come back to the current show LA Woman, art by 24 (? or more) women of LA. It is top quality. Then the bronzes in the next room are oh so lovely, then the replica of the Paradise Doors, then the church next door that rivals Westminster Abby! (no kidding and I have been there too!) SO if you catch my drift I am excited about this little museum. Just figure out the maze of serpentine roads and get to the top of the hill and be sure to have you camera for the panoramic views of the surrounding area! Double WOW.

"Forest Lawn, not just for Dead People" They actually have a little Museum a top the hill with various exhibits that change throughout the year and the best part............. it's FREE, and plenty of FREE parking too! Adelante! Mexican American Artists: 1960's and Beyond The Forest Lawn Museum in Glendale presents "¡Adelante! Mexican American Artists: 1960s and Beyond," a collection of works by an array of talented Mexican American artists, many who helped forge the Chicano Art Movement that began in the 1960's, as well as a number of the new generation of artists. This extraordinary exhibit includes paintings, drawings, sculpture, and photography. Not only did the Chicano Arts Movement seek social justice and equality for Mexican Americans, but it also sought to educate people of their rich heritage. The diverse art was fueled by heightened political activism and energized cultural pride, and remains as dynamic and complex as the individual life experiences of the artists that created it. In addition, a number of the works in the exhibit are on loan from the Cheech Marin Collection, one of the largest private collections of Chicano art in the United States. The influential artists who are participating in the exhibit include Lalo Alcaraz, Judith F. Baca; Benjamin Botello; David Rivas Botello; Joseph Botello; Joe Bravo; Barbara Carrasco; Lupe Duarte; Yami Duarte; Ofelia Esparza; Paul G. Fuentes; Lalo García; Margaret García; Deanna Gomez; Elysa Gomez; Ignacio Gomez; Imelda Gomez; Yolanda González; Jaime Guerrero; Roberto Gutiérrez; Wayne Healy; Sergio Hernandez; jaxiejax (Jacqueline Sanders); Leo Limón; David A. Lopez; Pola Lopez; Los de Abajo Printmaking Collective; Heriberto Luna; Frank Martinez; David J. Negrón; Antonio Pelayo; Steven Botello Rivera; Bill Robles; George Rodriguez; Frank Romero; Shizu Saldamando; Steve Santillan; August H. Santistevan; Maria "Frances" Santistevan; John C. Santistevan (1974 - 1993); Melly Trochez; Patssi Valdez; Mark Vallen; George Yepes; ZANlovesEastLA (Rosanna Esparza Ahrens). These artists, many of whom are East Los Angeles natives, explored, created and/or reinvented alternative art venues for the positive expression of a renewed cultural identity. THESE WERE MY TWO FAVORITES, PAINTINGS ON TORTILLAS http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=GgIKFi8fcGe--XI6zHProA http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=QXdZ5mMB-qpOOC7KWuey1g http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=iPo8Wgb5MJ6tMeybwm8Nsw http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=BoPgD-6k6m6oJL_LhTQggg http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=ug_gs1dIxooS3y4Wd9ssPA http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=OTO72UlDKYBUpATtEHz-Qw http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=aEYiar_G-h1zJqksiexmAA http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=w-_55bJCa4XfU7LyS9cCYA http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=CXAfGvkyezNO8_q0lUwc3g http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=ifA0M0jdon4IvPkCrQdPLA http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=ANaHAYd6Jum0jbAmtxEZCg http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=wnYyCh1i-gB6pwFaai66rg http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=ibTwmN6JbFteWvQ08l_TsA http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=IBr9j_y5jH5s8BalFADceg http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=SOv2lzGt1PjjRaS06ugGUw http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=NI-0KmZFmpHqHXkuLCREkw http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=6jQQ6sATYOBf4Z3OH566sQ http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/VJZowef4kTiw3BvEyK1BTg?select=GrPCozDUutld3fYMzEQMyg

It seems odd to have a LEGO sculpture/art exhibit at a cemetery, but, trust me, it's all good! It's a large, beautiful cemetery and you feel very "not-in-LA" when you're there. I am not very familiar with LA (we live in Santa Clarita Valley), and I felt totally comfortable with the drive there and being there with my 2 kids (ages 11 and 8). The LEGO exhibit is great! We all loved it. It's not huge; it's all in one room of the museum, but the pieces are each so awesome that this will probably be the one museum exhibit in their lives that your kids will actually stop to look at each item! :) No photos allowed, but they do have a hardcover book and a coloring book available for purchase if you want to take something with you. The museum also holds a room of Christian-related religious art and artifacts, including some nice stained glass and some full knights' body armor. We're not really into the religious stuff, but my kids still liked to look around. Then at the back there's a room of bronze sculptures which my kids actually enjoyed (to my surprise). They will recognize sculptures of people like Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt, as well as sculptures of animals like bears and antelopes. There are some bare-breasted sculptures which will intrigue the tweens and pre-teens, hahaha. And there's even an actual Maori sculpture from Easter Island there! As well as a replica of golden doors from Italy that took 27 years to carve. The museum is very calm and peaceful and clean, and when we were there (Wednesday at 10:30), it wasn't crowded at all, so the kids felt comfortable, I think, and not rushed. And I didn't feel like I had to discipline every two seconds -- they could roam around the rooms at their own paces and study the pieces they liked. I'll pass along the questions/comments that my kids seemed to respond well to: - In the LEGO room, "Which sculpture represents you the best?" - In the LEGO room, "What do you think the fist coming out of the Earth represents?" - In the LEGO room, "How is Nathan (the artist) an innovator?" - In the LEGO room, "How will seeing this exhibit influence the way you look at and build with your LEGOs from now on?" - In the bronze room, "Can you imagine devoting 27 years of your life to carving 2 doors?" - In the bronze room, "Notice how the sculptor can take something hard like metal and make it look like it's moving." There are clean restrooms out the back door, as well as a soda machine ($0.85 to $1.35). There's a nice view from there as well (You're up on a hill). We spent a nice, relaxing hour at the museum, between the three rooms and the bathroom. ;) TIP: On Saturdays during the LEGO Exhibit, they have free LEGO build sessions for kids. Call ahead to reserve a spot.

I am a huge Lego fan and once I quickly passed through the billboard sign that they were having a sculpture event here I was shocked. Hyperventilating with the words "OMG" repetitively. I needed to make sure if this was for real or if I missed it (billboard signs tend to be there longer than expected). I went online to search it. YES!!! It was totally happening and I did not miss the exhibit, Nathan Sawaya's The Art of the Brick. More excitement came on to me like a little school girl getting a brand new barbie doll. Once I tamed down I started telling everybody about the event, mind you I was still excited and all I got was 'OK' stares and probably thought I was nuts. For all Lego fans this is the place to be. Sadly, no photography or video was allowed (in any of the buildings). I was bummed because I wanted to take pictures of the beautiful and creative artwork that were created :(. This made my "OMG" to "Oh man!" The exhibit was great, a lot of sculptures of mainly figures and a few non relations. The one thing I did not like was the exhibit was quite small. I was expecting it to be a bit bigger (only about 1/4 of the building) and more time worthy to examine the pieces, since it was a bit crowded. One of my favorite was the fairy tale castle, reminded me of Disney. The rest of the building consisted a gift shop and an exhibit of religious art, artifacts and people. Overall great museum and outside on to the parking lot gives you a wonderful view of LA/Glendale.

From September 9, 2011 - Jan 1, 2012 The museum is hosting Adelante! Mexican American Artists: 1960's and Beyond. This is a beautiful exhibit of Chicanco artists. Find the time in your schedule to visit this exhibit - it really is wonderful. The museum is at the top of Forest Lawn - which allows you a spectacular view of Glendale, the Valley and Downtown. This is a perfect spot to take out of town guests - or locals who say they have seen it all!

Hubby had commented that he wanted to look at some art. My oldest was complaining about not being able to play on his tablet, 'cause he wanted to look up stuff to draw. The little one didn't want to look at art. I wanted to avoid crowds. What to do?...Remember that castle-looking place I always see from the train and exclaim, "We're going to a museum in a graveyard!" Everyone was game. The place did not disappoint. Free parking, free admission, and some damn pleasing art. You get to it by following the road with the white reflectors up the hill from the entrance. Now, for starters, the museum is NOT in the castle (that is the mausoleum, where apparently there is a Last Supper stained glass). It is farther up the hill, in the other structure you see from the train, which is actually the large Hall of the Crucifixion-Resurrection. From the train it looks like a big, modernist church. From the parking lot, it looks like an old European cathedral. Hubby commented that such a building could only exist in Los Angeles, and I do have to say I agree. The adjacent museum has a rotating gallery in front (we saw one on LA Women); a room of some amazing stained glass dating back centuries (three displayed together date from the 13th, 14th and 16th centuries, respectively, and it was a great lesson for my son on how studying cadavers positively informed artists' knowledge of the human body--if you are me); and a room with 19th and 20th century sculpture (my sons' favorite). There are more stunning stained glass windows in the Hall of the Crucifixion-Resurrection. If you haven't visited yet, I highly recommend it.

Well Lets face it nobody likes to go to a Cemetery unless you're there to visit a Loved one or Buying a Burial Plot . I had the unfortunate task to accompany my Grandmother to Purchase her Final resting place, and the reason I say it's unfortunate because honestly nobody likes to think of their loved ones dying, & my Grandmother surprised me by buying me a Burial plot! Thanks? That part was kind of terrifying but fortunately we were given a tour which sort of lightened up the somber mood. We found out they have a Museum and I honestly thought it was about Dead people or something but They had a Lego art Showcase which was truly incredible. Overall this is a very Clean, professional establishment. Suffice to say that my Family and I have been pleased with their Service.

What a fantastic venue! We drove around the complex on a very nice and beautiful day. We were on our way up, for the first time, to the museum. I wanted to check out the last day of the Drew Struzen show. Spectacular museum! We even SAW Drew Struzen!!! The museum was awesome! Truly a diamond in the rough of LA. The entire Forest Lawn is great! We'll be back soon!

Very interesting museum! This place is small, but worth stopping in at for a bit. Be sure to check the opening days and hours. When we were there, it was a very interesting exhibit of paintings by a Chinese artist named Cao Yong, who has traveled all over the world and painted pictures of his destinations. One thing to be prepared for-- this museum is in an active cemetery. There are historic graves, but also new ones still going in, so you may pass funerals, mourners, etc. on your way up to the museum. Lots to check out in the cemetery itself, too! Also, there is a fantastic view from the museum, as it's on the top of a tall hill.

Came here with a friend to visit the David Bowie among the Mexican masters exhibition. The museum is located inside the memorial park. The park is very green spacious and beautiful. The museum itself has many interesting collection of American figures. They are all very animated and lively, very untypical of most museum collection. We also went to see the Last supper glass window at the mausoleum. It was painted with heavy paint so it was hard to tell it was glass. Very deceiving

The soccer World Cup exhibit at the museum was great! They have some really neat memorabilia and it is free to the public. The museum is a bit small but great exhibits that they do year round.

What a cute, quiet little museum. Unfortunately when I went the art exhibit in the cathedral looking building was temporarily closed. The other "wing" had some fun artwork on animals, there was a collection of stain glass paintings and some knight suits. And in the last room there were interesting sculptures, one of a young Abraham Lincoln that made him look all rugged and handsome. I wish the day I went wasn't so hazy because otherwise the view is amazing from up there. There are also a few statues behind the museum with a view that looks out to Glendale and the foothills.