California Science Center in Los Angeles

The California Science Center in Los Angeles is an innovative science and education complex combining exceptional exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities. Don’t overlook this institute as simply for children, it offers fun and wonderment for the entire family through the lens of science.

The California Science Center is open to the public 362 days a year and provides free admission to its 4 permanent exhibition galleries. Creative World showcases human’s use of technology in society, while the World of Life guides you through the interconnectedness of our planet. For a look into the world of ecology, Ecosystems has 11 immersive environments to explore, and the Air & Space exhibits take you deep into our galaxy. Along with a host of special exhibits, onsite dining, and outdoor gardens, you are in for a full weekend of fun at the California Science Center.

California Science Center in Los Angeles - one of the highlights of 14 Best Family Things to Do in Los Angeles and 10 Best Free Things to Do in Los Angeles (Read all about Los Angeles here)

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What are the highlights of the California Science Center?

The main attraction of the California Science Center is the Endeavor space shuttle in the Air & Space exhibit area. Inside this retired orbiter from NASA’s Space Shuttle program, you can navigate and view unique artifacts such as the hilarious "space potty". If marine life is more your speed, the Ecosystems exhibit is home to a gigantic 188,000-gallon kelp tank populated by live kelp, and other marine creatures.

The Science Center also hosts many educationally focused exhibits and movies in a 7-storey IMAX theater. Bringing worlds to life on the screen, a 3D movie viewing is a must for all visitors. The final major highlight begins right at the parking garage, where gardens and exhibits take you on a journey through the ecosystems of SoCal, shrublands, forests, and high desert.

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What are the best things to do in the California Science Center?

The California Science Center is constantly pushing the envelope of new and exciting special exhibits, so you are in for a surprise every time you visit. A past example was the incredible Art of the Brick exhibit, featuring the world’s largest display of LEGO art including replicas of masterpieces like the Mona Lisa.

Science doesn’t have to be dry and boring, and the Science Spectacular! shows embody this with its interactive presentations on a variety of science topics. Find out what causes earthquakes, or learn how chemical reactions occur through live experiments – just make sure to wear your science goggles. Finally, the California Science Center has numerous summer camps and community youth programs that are a great fit for your science-loving kids.

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Good to know about the California Science Center

Admission to the California Science Center’s permanent exhibition galleries is completely free, but there's a charge for the special exhibits and IMAX shows. For discounted tickets book in advance, or join one of the family membership options. An insider tip is to take the Metro Expo train line instead of parking – friendly on the billfold and avoids Los Angeles' notorious traffic.

Once you’ve had your fill of the science museum, head out and explore the rest of Exposition Park. It's home to other unique learning centres such as the California African History Museum and Natural History Museum. For sports fans, you can’t leave the area without walking around the LA Memorial Coliseum, host of the famous Rose Bowl soccer game.

Location: 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037, USA

Open: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

Phone: +1 323-724-3623

Ryan Thomas McNutt | Contributing Writer

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