Santa Monica Museum of Art, Santa Monica

Santa Monica Museum of Art started big: upon its founding in 1984, it moved right into a space designed by famed architect Frank Gehry. And it only got bigger. 14 years later, it relocated to expanded digs in the Bergamot Station Arts Center. That's remarkable in part because the museum has no permanent archive—instead of amassing a collection, it fills its schedule with rotating exhibits and the fruit of partnerships with with some of the world's most innovative modern artists.

A main gallery and two project rooms have showcased work including landscape and portrait paintings, mixed media, video sculpture, and creative installations from local and international artists. Programs ranging from modern crafting workshops to book-club meetings led by a guest artist or scholar also fill the space with creativity. To immerse guests deeper in the world of modern art, SMMoA also offers guided private-group tours and special members-only tours led by executive director Elsa Longhauser.