Getting to the museum is very unusual. At ground level, visitors step through a crypt-like entrance with a Pre-Columbian Revival design. [below]

Inside is a 50 yard long tunnel, which has been excavated right into the hillside. Walking through the small passageway, small dioramas are on display depicting early settlers of the Southwest. [below]

At the end of the tunnel, an elevator awaits, which lifted us one 'floor' to the main entrance. The main lobby and admission counter are located on the second floor. There wasn't a soul to be seen, and a less-than-congenial employee took our money and handed us stickers. She offered no assistance of any kind.

Adults: $7.50
Children [2 -12]: $3.00
Students and Seniors 60+: $5.00

We ducked outside and found a wonderful garden area, where we found a bench and had our lunch. The girls had prepared sandwiches, homemade pasta salad, and cookies. From our vantage point, we could see the train station from which we had just walked, and downtown Los Angeles.

In the museum, the displays are definitely social science in nature, and certainly showing their age. Items behind glass cases include baskets, clothing, blankets, weapons, jewelry, masks and toys of Native Americans. A fantastic collection of items spanning from Alaska to South America, which are displayed in such a dry, uninteresting way, I found my mind wandering.

The ground floor featured a temporary exhibit of art from artist Stan Natchez which was excellent. Natchez is a Native American who grew up in Los Angeles. His perspective is conflicted between his own traditions and American culture, and it shows in his work. [below] His exhibit shows September 25, 2004.

The Museum Store has an large collection of books and gifts. And a very knowledgable staff.

Overall, Southwest Museum is a wonderful historical building that contains a collection that is important, but not terribly compelling. The Autry National Center has recently taken charge this museum, so perhaps they can infuse this location with a new approach.