Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Los Angeles050

Nestled in downtown Los Angeles, between towering glass skyscrapers, is The Museum of Contemporary Art, or MOCA, for short. Designed by renowned architect Arata Isozaki, MOCA houses one the country's best collections of contemporary art and reflects all that is wonderful in Los Angeles. From the building's sinewy glass curves, inspired by Marilyn Monroe, to its pyramid topped, sky-lit, galleries flooded with natural light, this is a must see for any family with an interest in art and culture.

Our hunch is there is something to catch the whimsy of most every child at this museum; the pop art, in particular, will make comic-fan kids feel right at home. Some shows may have mature subject matter, however, so check before a visit.

Kids like to run around the generous museum plaza and dabble in the infinity fountains that run along the rear of the plaza courtyard. We grab a bite at the outdoor Patinette café and enjoy the sunlight after a visit. Then we attack the MOCA Store, which has a great selection of children's books, apparel, and other novelties.

For Families Workshops are scheduled the first Sunday of every month, from 1pm-3:30pm. These family workshops integrate gallery tours with artmaking projects and are generally designed for families with children between the ages of five and 13. Participation and admission to the museum is free. Just drop-in; reservations are not necessary.

Complimentary strollers are lent at the information booth. The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, MOCA's funky sister space, designed by Frank Gehry in a refurbished police garage, is just down 1st street and definitely worth tacking on to your visit. Admission price covers both museums.

Family Membership is $85 and includes free admission, free weekend parking at California Plaza, a 10% discount at The MOCA Stores, invitations to exclusive Members' Openings, a subscription to The Contemporary, and a Behind-the-Scenes tour. $68.68 of your membership is tax-deductible.

Note: MOCA admission is free to all every Thursday, 5pm-8pm. The museum is closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.