Image credit: Phil, Pexels
SIGGRAPH 2026 is bringing our global community back to Los Angeles — and while the conference will be packed with inspiration, there’s just as much to discover outside the walls of the Los Angeles Convention Center.
The SIGGRAPH 2026 Committee, both locals and LA enthusiasts, put their heads together and came up with a curated list of nearby experiential and culinary recommendations that appeal to creative, curious minds — and are relatively close to downtown. Whether you’re extending your stay or just looking for something to do after sessions wrap, this guide highlights some of the best ways to experience LA during your time at SIGGRAPH.
Museums and Inspiring Spaces
LACMA and Museum Row
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has just opened its highly anticipated new wing, the David Geffen Galleries. Even if you’ve visited before, it’s worth a return trip.
While you’re there:
- LACMA hosts free outdoor jazz on Friday nights throughout the summer.
- You’re steps away from a cluster of major museums:
- Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
- Petersen Automotive Museum
- La Brea Tar Pits, where you can see fossils of saber-tooth cats, mammoths, and giant sloths.
The Broad and MOCA
These two collections are just a short walk from the Los Angeles Convention Center:
- The Broad: A standout contemporary collection (and free, with timed tickets recommended).
- MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art): Also free, with frequently changing exhibits.
Natural History Museum and California Science Center
The Natural History Museum and California Science Center are great options if you’re exploring south of downtown. You can also see the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art taking shape nearby — it opens in September.
Griffith Observatory
Because the Griffith Observatory is always worth the trip for the views alone, but during SIGGRAPH week, you can also catch:
- “All Space Considered” (Thursday, 16 July, 7–8:30 pm) A free deep dive into current topics in astronomy and space exploration.
- “Star Party” (Saturday, 18 July 2–9:45 pm) Local astronomers gather with telescopes — open to all and very hands-on.
Both events are free and typically first-come, first-served.
NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) Tours
If you’re willing to venture a bit farther out, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena offers one of the most unique behind-the-scenes experiences in Southern California, including:
- Public tours: While they run regularly, advance booking is required and spots fill quickly.
- July tour reservations: These reservations typically open in May, though it’s worth checking for cancellations closer to your travel dates.
- A deep dive into robotics, planetary missions, and the real-world science behind space exploration.
Right Next Door: GRAMMY Museum
Located in LA Live, right next to the Los Angeles Convention Center, the GRAMMY Museum is a fun interactive stop — especially for music lovers.
Hidden Gem: The Stereoscopic Museum
Highly recommended (and very on theme for SIGGRAPH attendees), this tiny, specialized museum focuses on stereoscopic imaging. Be sure to plan your visit in advance.
Gallery Hop
For a more dynamic art experience, check out the See Saw app, which tracks current gallery exhibitions across LA.
Bonus!
Many galleries host free opening receptions, often Thursday–Sunday evenings, which are great for casual socializing and discovering new artists.
Live & Cultural Experiences
Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB)
Catch an improv show at one of LA’s most iconic comedy institutions — the training ground for performers like Amy Poehler and Ilana Glazer.
KCRW Summer Nights
Local radio station KCRW hosts a beloved Summer Nights series featuring:
- Free DJ sets
- Outdoor venues (Chinatown, Hammer Museum, and more)
- Lively, welcoming, and family-friendly atmosphere
The 2026 schedule isn’t out yet, but it’s worth keeping on your radar as you arrive in Los Angeles for SIGGRAPH 2026.
Food and Drink Worth the Reservation
Mexican Cuisine in the Arts District
If you’re in the mood for elevated Mexican, Damian is a standout but a splurge. For something more casual, head around back to Ditroit Taqueria, a hidden taco window in a beautiful, plant-filled space that offers the same care and quality at a lower price point.
Sonoratown
A local favorite known for its incredible flour tortillas, Sonoratown is frequently named best in LA. It’s casual, affordable, consistently excellent, and its downtown location is especially convenient after a day at SIGGRAPH 2026.
Hama Sushi
Hama Sushi is a classic sushi counter in Little Tokyo, offering high-quality sushi at a fraction of typical LA prices. As a pro-tip, plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before opening. You may have to wait in line (but it will be worth it!).
For the Fans of Food Halls
Check out Mercado La Paloma near University of Southern California, a vibrant Oaxacan-style food hall that is home to Holbox, one of LA’s most celebrated seafood spots. If the wait is too long, every other vendor in the food hall is also recommended.
Say ‘Cheers!’
Thunderbolt in Echo Park is a standout cocktail bar ranked No. 24 in North America’s 50 Best Bars. Look forward to creative, expertly crafted drinks to celebrate a night out in Los Angeles.
Architecture for Design Lovers
If you have time to explore further, LA is rich with architectural landmarks, including:
- Eames House (aka Case Study House No. 8)
- Gamble House
- Hollyhock House
- Schindler House
- Neutra VDL House
- Stahl House
While these houses are a bit more spread out, they are deeply rewarding for anyone interested in design, storytelling, and the built environment.
We’ll See You in the City of Angels
Like the SIGGRAPH conference itself, Los Angeles rewards curiosity — whether that means finding a hidden taco counter, catching a free astronomy program, or wandering into a gallery opening you didn’t plan for. With a little exploring beyond the convention center, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to complement the ideas and connections sparked at SIGGRAPH.
If you discover a favorite spot during your visit, we’d love to hear about it. Post a photo on social media and be sure to tag SIGGRAPH. Make sure you’re registered for SIGGRAPH 2026, and we’ll see you in LA!
