Electric light has always had a way of stopping people in their tracks — and the Museum of Neon Art in Glendale, California turns that instinct into an entire experience worth planning your day around. MONA is the only museum in the world devoted exclusively to art in electric media, exhibiting electric and kinetic fine art, and outstanding examples of historic neon signs. Whether you’re a lifelong Angeleno who remembers these signs lighting up the city’s streets or a curious first-time visitor, this is one of those rare places where art, science, and nostalgia fuse together in a way that genuinely catches you off guard.
MONA was founded in 1981 by Lili Lakich and Richard Jenkins. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit art museum, their original vision was to create an awareness for historic neon sign preservation and to showcase this electrifying contemporary art form. After moving several times across Los Angeles over the decades, the museum reopened in Glendale in 2016, with its facility designed by Shimoda Design Group and adapted from two existing structures: a pharmacy and a video arcade.
What Makes MONA Glow
MONA is an art museum that exhibits historic neon signs, electric and kinetic art, with a collection that notably includes neon signs from the Brown Derby and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. These aren’t just decoration — they’re artifacts from beloved Los Angeles institutions, fully restored and humming with their original brilliance. The beautifully restored historic signs evoke a powerful sense of nostalgia for old Los Angeles that’s hard to replicate anywhere else in the city.
The museum’s unique focus on neon spans both historical and contemporary pieces, with exhibits generally described as visually striking and educational, providing insights into the art and science of neon. MONA places a strong emphasis on art that is related to electricity and movement, viewing neon as a bridge between scientific principles and artistic expression — a perspective that allows visitors to explore the intersection of art, science, and technology through the medium of neon.
MONA also offers guided walking tours through various Los Angeles County neighborhoods, including Glendale, Koreatown, Hollywood, the Broadway Theatre District, and Chinatown, as well as double-decker bus tours that depart from Downtown’s Historic Core. The Neon Cruise, as it’s known, takes riders up top on an open-air double-decker for a nighttime journey through neighborhoods brimming with neon history — a totally different way to experience the city after dark.
MONA advocates for the preservation of historic signage and the buildings on which they are mounted, and has saved and restored over 500 historic signs while helping relight over 150 signs across Los Angeles County. That’s a remarkable preservation legacy that gives the museum’s mission real weight beyond its gallery walls.
Hands-On Neon Workshops
In addition to exhibitions and tours, the museum offers introductory classes in glass bending held in the museum’s own studio. Watching a skilled craftsperson heat and coax glass tubing into luminous shapes is hypnotic on its own — but actually trying it yourself is something else entirely. MONA offers neon bending classes with hands-on instruction to carry on this craft, which is listed on the HCA Red List of Endangered Crafts.
After attending a class, 98% of students become museum members, and many become actively involved in preservation efforts for historic signage — a testament to just how captivating the craft can be. Guided tours are highlighted as informative and engaging, giving visitors a deeper understanding of neon art creation and its cultural significance. If you can time your visit around one of these walk-through tours or live workshop sessions, it’s absolutely worth doing.
Atmosphere & Décor
Step inside MONA and the mood hits you immediately. The gallery space features vibrant colors, unique designs, and the “neonification” of each piece filling the room with warm, pulsing light that feels unlike any other museum environment you’ve encountered. The combination of buzzing signs and glowing sculptures creates an almost meditative atmosphere — it’s the kind of place where time passes faster than you expect.
There is a mixture of both older and newer pieces displayed throughout the space, giving the museum a layered quality where antique roadside signage sits alongside bold contemporary art. Neon signs that were once long forgotten have been restored to their original glory, and some are on loan by their artists — some you’ll recognize, while others carry a wonderful history to them. The intimacy of the space actually works in its favor; nothing is too far away to examine closely, and the glow of each piece feels personal rather than distant.
Upon arrival, the first thing you encounter is a gift shop, cleverly positioned to entice visitors before they even enter — unlike most museums where a gift shop might be tucked away near the bathrooms, here you’re confronted with the shopping experience right from the start. It’s a fun touch that sets a playful, unconventional tone for the whole visit. The gift shop receives consistent praise for its selection of neon-related souvenirs and art pieces — expect to leave with something you didn’t plan on buying.
Other Considerations
How much does it cost to get in? Some visitors note that the admission price might seem a bit high for the size of the museum, but most find the experience worthwhile. It’s worth checking the museum’s website for current pricing and any discounted or member rates, as MONA regularly offers special event nights that can add tremendous value to your ticket.
How long should I plan to spend there? Most visitors spend about one to two hours exploring the museum. The size is manageable, but the art is engaging, so allow ample time to appreciate the details. If you’re joining a guided tour or a workshop, budget a bit more time on top of that.
Is it a good spot for photos? Absolutely. MONA is awesome for unusual travel and visiting photos, and the glowing, colorful backdrops make for genuinely striking shots. Photography for personal use is welcome, so bring your camera or charge your phone before you go.
What about parking? There is 90 minutes of free parking nearby — a rarity in the LA area — making it easy to pop in without stressing over a meter. The museum is also easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient destination for visitors coming from across the greater LA region.
Is it a good fit for families or kids? The bright, buzzing environment is genuinely fun for curious minds of all ages, and the hands-on workshop element gives older kids and teens something more interactive to engage with. The focused, approachable subject matter makes it easy to enjoy together without overwhelming younger visitors.
Any tips before visiting? If you’re looking for a quick, fun thing to do in Glendale, MONA delivers — but if you do a little planning ahead, you’ll have a blast at one of their special events. Check the website for upcoming exhibitions, neon classes, and Neon Cruise schedules before locking in your visit date. The location in downtown Glendale is also convenient, with nearby dining and shopping options that make it easy to build out a full afternoon.
Museum of Neon Art (MONA)
📍 216 S Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91204
Website: https://www.neonmona.org
