Good Things Do Come In Small Packages

People sometimes refer to Los Angeles as being “larger than life.” This month I’m going to show you two places that take us to the opposite extreme. Let’s start with Carole and Barry Kaye’s Museum of Miniatures, lovingly abbreviated as MOM. Now the men might be starting for the mouse to save them from this tortuous “girly” subject – but I strongly recommend that you give it a chance; you might find yourself pleasantly surprised. You are about to discover the largest collection of miniatures anywhere in the world (14,000 square feet).

Visualizing wooden tables and chairs with lace table cloths and thumbnail size cups and saucers that fit in the palm of your hand? You will find many displays that meet these expectations. But there is so much more to experience. Think of the top tourist cities around the world, and there’s a strong likelihood that at least one hot spot will be represented in one of MOM’s 200+ displays.

Men, women and children alike come to enjoy the exhibits. Stools can be found at most displays so that the younger audience can take in every detail. Architectural designs range from the Vatican and the Roman Forum, to Hampton Court Palace, Fountainbleau, and the Doge’s Palace. You can even find a replication of L.A.’s own Hollywood Bowl, as well as the HMS Titanic. The latter was constructed from over 70,000 toothpicks. For those that may have wished they’d had a closer look at the O.J. Simpson trial, there’s even a diorama here for you. In addition to all of this, on one of the upper levels there are whole display cases of old hot wheels and model planes. There is literally something for everyone here.

This fascinating museum is located at 5900 Wilshire Blvd. and is open Tuesday through Sunday. Adults can enter for $7.50, seniors over 60 for $6.50, and ages 12 – 21 for $3.00. If you’re a local, check in your Entertainment Coupon Book for Greater Los Angeles for a ‘buy one adult admission and get one adult admission free’ coupon. If you don’t already own this gold mine, I highly recommend that you do. From discounted meals to movie tickets, to concerts and cultural events, this book will pay for itself in one or two uses. It’s a fantastic value. (call 1-800-374-4464)

If you’re living or vacationing along the coast and don’t wish to travel too far from your surroundings, try Angels Attic, in Santa Monica. Enclosed in an 1895 Queen Anne house, this museum has a much more intimate feel. This establishment has most of their exhibits at eye level for a child, once again assuring that visitors of all sizes can enjoy their experience. Besides an afternoon of examining the fine art and detailing of the 60+ doll houses, in addition to antique dolls and toys, you can enhance your visit by partaking in their by-reservation-only, Tea Time. This is a delightfully relaxing time that includes homemade cake and cookies.

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