In Exposition Park, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County takes you from dinosaur fossils to gems, animal habitats and the story of Los Angeles. Its Dinosaur Hall brings together more than 300 fossils and 20 mounted skeletons, including T. rex fossils from different stages of growth. The Gem and Mineral Hall displays specimens from around the world, while hands-on areas give children a chance to handle natural-history objects. The 1913 building is part of the visit, too. Set aside a few hours to explore the galleries and outdoor gardens.
A museum opened in 1913
The museum opened in Exposition Park in 1913. Its original Spanish Renaissance Revival building has terracotta details and a colonnaded rotunda lined with Italian marble. The historic structure remains part of the experience, with later additions bringing new galleries and visitor spaces.
A six-story glass entrance pavilion welcomes visitors with a suspended fin whale skeleton. The museum grounds also include outdoor gardens, where you can take a break from the galleries and see plants and wildlife.
Dinosaur Hall and the fossil collections
Dinosaur Hall is a major stop for anyone interested in prehistoric life. Its collection includes more than 300 fossils and 20 mounted skeletons. A T. rex growth series lets you compare fossils from young and adult animals, while other displays include a Triceratops fossil and skeletons of prehistoric mammals.
The museum’s Dinosaur Lab gives visitors a look at paleontology work. Children can try brushing and cleaning artifacts in a hands-on activity. The exhibits also use displays and explanations to explore how dinosaurs lived.
Gems, habitats and living nature
The Gem and Mineral Hall brings together more than 2,000 samples from across the world, including stones, minerals, meteorites and gems. It is a useful change of pace from the large fossil displays, with smaller specimens that reward a slower look.
Animal habitat halls use dioramas to show mammals from North America and Africa in settings that represent their environments. Other galleries cover birds, insects and marine life. The Nature Lab and Discovery Center include live animals and touchable specimens such as shells, rocks, bones and insects.
Los Angeles and the outdoors
Becoming Los Angeles traces the city’s history, connecting the region’s past with the urban area visitors see today. The museum’s collections span both natural and cultural history, and its exhibits also address the relationship between people and the environment.
Outside, the Nature Gardens provide a chance to see local plant and animal life. The grounds include a Get Dirty play area for children, with compost bins and a willow-branch playhouse. The museum is next to the California Science Center, so the two institutions can be combined in a day at Exposition Park.
Häufige Fragen
How long should I spend at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore. The museum has enough galleries and outdoor areas to fill a longer visit, too.
What are the museum’s main highlights?
Dinosaur Hall, the Gem and Mineral Hall, animal habitat displays, and exhibits about Los Angeles are among the main draws.
Is there a hands-on area for children?
Yes. The museum has interactive displays, a Discovery Center with touchable specimens, a Dinosaur Lab activity and an outdoor Get Dirty play area.
Can I visit the museum and California Science Center on the same day?
Yes. The California Science Center is next door in Exposition Park.
