11 must-see things at the sprawling Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Key Points:

• The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, co-founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson, spans 300,000 square feet with 11 acres of park space and features over 1,300 works, blending fine art, children’s illustrations, movie memorabilia, and comic strips without emphasizing traditional artistic hierarchy.
• Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum’s upper floors first, including murals and the rooftop Skywalker Grill, while the first floor’s “History of Narrative Art” exhibition, mainly digital and reproductions, may feel superficial; admission is $25 for adults and free for children.
• A highlight is Frida Kahlo’s 1940 “Self Portrait Dedicated to Dr. Eloesser,” considered a significant work that reflects her healing journey and includes personal elements like a dedication to her doctor and earrings gifted by Pablo Picasso.
• The museum features a luxe restaurant requiring advance reservations, offering classic American cuisine with California ingredients, and a public library with over 3,000 art books, including a special collection donated by Steve Martin, accessible without museum admission.
• The outdoor garden campus, designed by Mia Lehrer, includes native vegetation, sculptures such as Fernando Botero’s mother and child, and iconic “Star Wars” statues like Yoda and Princess Leia battling Jabba the Hutt, along with a large waterfall that serves as a cooling feature and peaceful spot.