Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Admission

Explore Los Angeles’ Top Natural History Collection for $18

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers an engaging, family-friendly experience at just $18 per person. With a visit duration of approximately 3 hours, this museum showcases over 300 fossils, live plants and animals, gemstones, and interactive displays that captivate visitors of all ages. It’s a great way to spend a day exploring nature and history without the need for complex arrangements or additional tickets, as admission includes access to Dinosaur Hall, dioramas, and the Gem & Mineral Hall.

Located in Los Angeles, this museum is highly rated with a 4.5 out of 5 based on 84 reviews, reflecting its popularity and the quality of its exhibits. We appreciate that it’s a family-friendly destination, especially suitable for children eager to learn through hands-on activities and visually impressive displays. Note that Dinosaur Encounters show is available as an optional add-on, booked separately. The museum’s mobile ticket system simplifies entry, and most visitors find it easy to plan their visit 8 days in advance on average.

Key Points

• Affordable entry price of $18 for a wide range of exhibits
• Approximately 3 hours of self-guided exploration, ideal for families
• Highlights include dinosaurs, fossils, gemstones, and native plants
• Dinosaur Hall features over 300 fossils and a T. Rex growth series
• Interactive exhibits like the Nature Lab and Native Plant Gardens
• Open Monday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, near public transportation

Discover the Extensive Dinosaur Exhibits and Fossil Collections

A major draw at the Natural History Museum is its Dinosaur Hall, where over 300 fossils and 20 complete skeletons await discovery. Visitors get a close look at the Tyrannosaurus Rex growth series, which is the world’s only of its kind, offering rare insights into the life stages of this iconic predator. The Dino Lab features a behind-the-scenes view of paleontologists working, giving an authentic peek into fossil excavation and research.

The museum also presents a comprehensive story spanning 65 million years, with more than 240 specimens including mastodons, whales, and animal dioramas from North America and Africa. These displays help visitors understand the evolution of life on Earth in an engaging way. The Dinosaur Encounters show enhances the experience, combining storytelling and visuals to bring these ancient creatures to life, though it is available as an additional ticket.

Explore the Fossil and Skeleton Dioramas

Beyond dinosaurs, the museum houses animal dioramas and skeletons that tell the story of mammoths, whales, and other creatures from different eras. These displays give context to the fossil collection and highlight the diversity of prehistoric life. The dioramas are carefully designed to showcase natural habitats and animal behaviors, making this a compelling area for children and adults alike.

Each specimen is presented with educational descriptions, making it easy to grasp how species evolved and adapted over millions of years. The 240 specimens collectively narrate the fascinating journey of life through the ages, offering a visual and educational feast for all visitors.

View the Glittering Gems and Minerals Collection

The Gems and Minerals Hall stands out with its more than 2,000 specimens, including diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and gold. The display features striking jewelry-quality stones and raw mineral samples, offering a unique contrast to the ancient fossils. Visitors who enjoy geology or jewelry design will find this section particularly fascinating.

This hall provides a shimmering journey through earth’s mineral diversity. The specimens are displayed with educational labels to explain their origins and properties, making it a great stop for those interested in natural resources and the beauty of minerals.

Hands-on Experiences at the Nature Lab and Gardens

For a more tactile experience, the Nature Lab offers the chance to see native Los Angeles creatures up close and learn about local wildlife. It features a collection of native animals, providing an interactive and educational space for children. Adjacent to the lab, the Nature Gardens showcase native plant species, giving visitors an outdoor counterpart to the indoor exhibits.

These areas encourage active learning and are particularly kid-friendly, with lots of opportunities to touch, observe, and ask questions. They add a practical element to the museum visit, making it more than just observing specimens behind glass.

Family-Friendly Features and Interactive Exhibits

The museum excels at providing a kid-friendly environment with interactive displays and educational activities. The Dinosaur Encounters show, Nature Lab, and native plant exhibits are designed to engage children and inspire curiosity. Review feedback highlights that children are especially captivated by the size of the dinosaurs and the hands-on dig areas.

Plus, the museum’s design makes it easy for families to navigate, with most exhibits accessible and engaging for all ages. The friendly staff and well-maintained facilities contribute to a positive experience for families seeking a fun and educational outing.

Practical Information: Opening Hours and Accessibility

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County operates Monday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm and is located near public transportation, making it convenient for visitors to reach. The mobile ticket system streamlines entry, and confirmation is received instantly after booking. The museum welcomes service animals, and groups are limited to a maximum of 9 people per booking, which is ideal for small family outings or group visits.

For those planning a visit, it’s recommended to book about a week in advance to secure tickets, especially during peak times. The museum’s free cancellation policy provides flexibility in case plans change, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled visit.

What Sets This Museum Apart from Others

What makes this Los Angeles institution stand out is its comprehensive dinosaur exhibits, including the unique growth series of T. Rex and over 300 fossils. The combination of fossil, mineral, and live plant collections offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to a broad audience. Many visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the interactive elements that make learning both fun and memorable.

Compared to other local attractions, the admission price remains quite reasonable, especially considering the variety of exhibits included. The outdoor Nature Gardens and the hands-on Nature Lab add a dynamic, engaging touch that many similar museums lack.

Limitations and Considerations for Visitors

While the museum provides a rich experience, some reviews point out practical issues such as parking challenges due to nearby events, such as concerts. These situations may require visitors to use alternative parking options or plan extra time for arrival. Plus, the Dinosaur Encounters show requires an additional ticket, which some visitors might overlook when planning their trip.

It’s important to check the museum’s schedule for special events or closures, as unexpected closures could impact the visit. Since most exhibits are self-guided, visitors should allocate enough time to fully enjoy the displays, especially considering the museum’s size.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

This museum offers a rich, educational experience for families and individuals interested in dinosaurs, fossils, minerals, and local flora and fauna. The $18 admission price provides excellent value, especially given the extensive collection and interactive features. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect its reputation as a top cultural attraction in Los Angeles.

While practical considerations like parking and the optional Dinosaur Encounters show are worth noting, the overall experience remains worthwhile for those seeking a fun, informative day. The friendly, knowledgeable staff and well-designed exhibits ensure visitors of all ages leave with new knowledge and lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for the museum?
Most visitors of all ages can participate, and the exhibits are designed to be engaging for children and adults alike.

How long does the typical visit last?
The average visit lasts about 3 hours, allowing enough time to explore major exhibits comfortably.

Can I purchase tickets upon arrival?
Yes, but booking in advance is recommended, especially as tickets are booked 8 days in advance on average.

What exhibits are included in the general admission?
Admission includes access to the Dinosaur Hall, Fossil and Diorama Exhibits, Gem and Mineral Hall, Nature Gardens, and Nature Lab.

Is the Dinosaur Encounters show included?
No, it is an add-on ticket available on-site.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted within the museum.

What are the museum’s opening hours?
It is open Monday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, but parking conditions can vary, especially during special events like concerts, which may require using larger parking lots at higher prices.

Is the museum accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Most exhibits are accessible, and the museum welcomes visitors with mobility needs.

Can I visit the museum with a small group?
Yes, the maximum group size per booking is 9, making it suitable for small family or friend groups.

This Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County stands as a compelling destination for those eager to explore prehistoric life, geological wonders, and native flora and fauna with affordable pricing and engaging exhibits.