What to Know Before You Go: USC Pacific Asia Museum

Part of the lovely and calm courtyard at the museum. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

I always maintain that living in Los Angeles where so many world-class educational institutions exist means that we are lucky to have amidst us some fabulous opportunities for learning and leisure. That includes venues like the USC Pacific Asia Museum, part of the USC campus in Pasadena and a fantastic museum to visit if you are in the area. Please check dates and times when it is open before you go. Sometimes they have free entry days, special events, and other happenings so you might want to plan to be there then. Read on for my recommendations! 

The exhibit about the Silk Road was fascinating. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

Let's begin with the courtyard. I love an open, welcome space inviting you in and feel courtyards do just that so this spot with its lovely courtyard and tables and chairs outside to enjoy the lovely California weather is one I'm fond of. They have free parking and admission here but the lot can be small for events so you'd have to find an alternate spot and special exhibitions might have a charge so check at the reception on those details before you enter. I don't remember any tours being available but you might be able to request one for a larger group.

The cute gift shop has some great finds for all ages. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

When I visited, there was an exhibit about the silk road that was extremely educational and informative. I walked away learning quite a few things. They also have a pretty large permanent collection. You may want to view information online before you visit. They have more than they can display so you might be able to view additional resources on the site. The exhibits include Korean, Japanese and Chinese art, ceramics, textiles, and more. There are also sculptures and painting including some from India, Nepal and Tibet in the arts from the Himalayas and south and Southeast sections. Hopefully you'll find a few things that are interesting to learn more about. There is also a cute gift shop at the end as you exit so make sure to spare some time to spend there. 

​Hope you enjoyed this little review and found it helpful. Let me know your experience if you go. If you enjoyed reading this post, then hit that coffee cup at the bottom of your screen to support my work. I pen these articles from my own experiences and share information that might assist in planning a better visit for you. If you liked this post, then check out some of the other Museum Reviews on the site or also plan an Around the World in LA day for yourself with my book as a reference resource!

Author

Ruksana Hussain is the publisher and editor of Traveler and Tourist digital magazine, author of Around the World in Los Angeles, and award-winning journalist and writer at RH Media Consulting. Connect with her on Instagram and Facebook or through the Contact Form.