At 700 Exposition Park Drive in Los Angeles, the California Science Center brings science to life through hands-on galleries on ecosystems, biology, technology and space. The permanent galleries have free admission, and the Ecosystems exhibit pairs live plants and animals with aquariums, including a kelp forest. Space Shuttle Endeavour has moved into the adjacent Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which is under construction; inside the museum, you can see an interactive video tour of the shuttle. Add a ticketed IMAX film or special exhibition if you want more to do.
Four galleries to explore
The California Science Center is in Exposition Park, beside the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Its permanent galleries cover four broad subjects: the living world, technology and invention, ecosystems, and air and space.
World of Life looks at connections across living things, from single-celled organisms to humans. Creative World explores how people use technology in areas such as transportation, communication and structures. In Ecosystems, displays combine live plants and animals with interactive activities across different environments. The air and space galleries focus on flight and space travel.
A closer look at ecosystems
The Ecosystems galleries take you through environments that include rivers, deserts, islands and forests. Live animals and plants make this section especially engaging for children, while the aquariums offer a closer view of aquatic life. The kelp forest tank is a key stop; look for the viewing tunnel and the touch tanks, where children can gently handle sea creatures.
The museum also has a discovery room for younger children. Hands-on displays throughout the center invite you to experiment and explore rather than only read exhibit labels. School-age children may get more from the science activities, but the galleries have ways for different ages to take part.
Space Shuttle Endeavour and ticketed experiences
Space Shuttle Endeavour flew 25 missions from 1992 to 2011 and arrived in Los Angeles in 2012. It has since moved into the adjacent Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which is under construction. While the new center is being built, the shuttle is not on display; the California Science Center has an interactive video tour of its interior and a time-lapse film about lifting and installing it in a vertical position.
You can add a ticketed special exhibition or an IMAX film to the free permanent galleries. The schedule of temporary exhibitions changes, so check what is showing before planning your visit. If you want to spend time with the live-animal exhibits and hands-on activities as well as a film or special exhibition, leave several hours for the center.
Häufige Fragen
Is admission to the California Science Center free?
Admission to the permanent galleries is free. IMAX films and special exhibitions require tickets.
Can you see Space Shuttle Endeavour?
Endeavour has moved into the adjacent Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which is under construction, and is not currently on display. The museum has an interactive video tour of its interior.
How long should you spend at the California Science Center?
Allow at least a few hours to explore the galleries. You can spend much of a day here if you want to see the exhibits thoroughly.
When is a good time to visit?
Arrive early on a weekday to avoid crowds from school field trips.
