The golden era of the Wild West might be long gone, but you can still catch a glimpse of its thrilling past at the Autry Museum of the American West. Nestled right across from the entrance to the L.A. Zoo in Griffith Park, this expansive 3,345-square-meter complex is home to over 500,000 captivating works of art and artifacts from the American frontier. The museum, co-founded by the legendary musical western star Gene Autry in 1988, naturally showcases some seriously cool Western film memorabilia. You'll spot pistols once wielded by Steve McQueen and costumes from the 2005 hit Brokeback Mountain. There's even a replica movie set that brings an Old Western town to life with charming storefronts. Fun fact: The first-ever feature-length movie filmed in Hollywood was a Western, the 1914 silent film The Squaw Man, directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The very camera used to film this classic is displayed here too. As you step inside, a bronze statue of "the singing cowboy" Autry himself welcomes you, but this museum goes beyond Hollywood's silver screen. It offers an authentic glimpse into the true Old West. Discover engraved golden pistols gifted to the sharpshooter Annie Oakley by her husband Frank Butler. Explore an impressive saddle collection, a genuine 1855 mail stagecoach, Smith & Wesson revolvers, portraits of pioneers, cowboy hats, and buckskin jackets. There's even a fully recreated saloon featuring a mahogany bar and a roulette wheel. For those interested in more than just artifacts, the museum often hosts engaging events and educational programs that delve into Western history, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and casual visitors alike.