An Afternoon at The Paley Center for Media

There are a lot of words that come to mind when thinking of Beverly Hills…ritzy…glamorous…  expensive…but rarely free. Yet, in the heart of all the retail action is an institution that offers several public programs for the low low price of $0 – The Paley Center for Media.

I’ve been visiting The Paley Center for several years going back to when it was called The Museum of Television & Radio. Thanks to a childhood filled with Nick at Nite, TGIF and more there are countless shows I know and love. Luckily, the center consistently holds screenings and exhibitions devoted to some of my favorites.

Like The Crown. The Netflix drama is so beautifully presented, so well written and cast perfectly that I can’t help but binge it every time a new season comes out. Last season was especially good and has been the topic of numerous conversations between me and my friends.

Recently, The Paley Center had an exhibition of the costumes from season 2 and I knew I had to check it out. Of course, Ike a true procrastinator, I waited until the very last day it was open to visit.

One thing I love about The Paley Center is that not only do they have free admission but they have free parking, too! That’s a rarity in LA. Although it was a busy weekend I easily found a parking space and headed into the cavernous, wonderfully air-conditioned center. The first floor was devoted to The Crown and I spent a good while admiring the detail that went into the beautiful costumes.

Though it was relatively small I really enjoyed seeing all the costumes up close and, now, I’m even more excited for season 3.

In addition to The Crown there was also an exhibit devoted to the 30th anniversary of Shark Week and it was fun to see some of the props from throughout the years.

As a huge fan of the classics I love the permanent collection of Al Hirschfeld originals. His fun caricatures of the stars are true works of art and I spent a good deal of time walking around and guessing who everyone was.

Some were easier to figure out than others.

If you’re a fan of television history The Paley Center is worth checking out. The Crown exhibit has closed but Shark Week remains on view through August 12 and then I’m sure something new and fun will soon arrive. And with free admission, it’s one of the best deals in town.