Discover the La Brea Tar Pits Museum for a Hands-On Ice Age Experience

The Los Angeles: La Brea Tar Pits Museum Ticket offers a fascinating look into the Ice Age right in the heart of California. Priced at $18 per person and lasting one day, this tour combines outdoor sights with an engaging museum experience. It’s perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone interested in prehistoric fossils and active excavation sites.

The tour includes admission to the museum, access to Pit 91, the Pleistocene Gardens, and the atrium, along with a chance to observe scientists at work in the Fossil Lab. For just over the cost of a movie ticket, visitors get an up-close look at over a million Ice Age fossils, including mammoths and saber-toothed cats. The tour is ideal for those wanting a practical, educational outing that combines outdoor exploration with inside exhibits.

However, visitors should keep in mind that parking fees are not included, and add-on attractions like the Ice Age Encounters show or 3D film require separate purchase. The tour operates daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, offering flexible times to fit into a Los Angeles sightseeing schedule.

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Key Points

Affordable entry price of $18, with a comprehensive museum visit
Active fossil excavation site with Pit 91 access included
Observation of scientists cleaning and studying fossils in real-time
Bubbling tar pits showcase ongoing geological activity
Outdoor attractions include the Pleistocene Gardens and Fossil Lab
Ideal for families and history enthusiasts seeking an educational experience

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The Location and How to Get There

The Page Museum at La Brea Tar Pits is located at 5801 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036. The site is easily accessible, with an onsite parking lot available for an additional fee. Visitors arriving early in the day around 10:30 AM often find the tour particularly rewarding, especially when watching the scientists at work in the Fossil Lab.

The museum’s central location makes it convenient for combining with other LA attractions or exploring nearby neighborhoods. The site’s open hours run every day from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, though it’s wise to check online for any holiday closures.

The Active Excavation Site: Pit 91 and Bubbles from the Ground

One of the tour’s most captivating features is Pit 91, a working excavation site where new fossils are unearthed daily. Visitors can watch excavators at work, revealing fossils of prehistoric animals, which adds a dynamic element to the experience.

Outside, tar continues to bubble from the ground, providing a visual reminder that the tar pits are still geologically active. This ongoing activity makes the site a unique blend of past and present—a true outdoor laboratory where science is happening in real time.

Inside the Museum: Fossil Lab and Exhibits

The museum showcases more than just fossils in display cases; it offers a front-row seat to scientific work. In the Fossil Lab, scientists clean and study unearthed fossils right before visitors’ eyes, adding an educational and engaging dimension.

The exhibits feature impressive fossils from the Ice Age, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and other prehistoric creatures. The displays are well-maintained and informative, offering insights into the animals that once roamed North America.

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Pleistocene Gardens and Outdoor Attractions

The Pleistocene Gardens provide a lush, outdoor space adjacent to the fossil sites. Visitors enjoy strolling through this garden area, which features native plants and reconstructions of Ice Age flora, creating a scenic setting to complement the fossil displays.

These gardens serve as a peaceful spot for taking photos or relaxing after exploring the active dig sites and museum exhibits. The overall outdoor layout helps visitors appreciate both the geological processes and prehistoric environment.

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Add-On Attractions and Extra Cost Options

While general admission covers the core experience, additional attractions are available for purchase on-site, including the Ice Age Encounters show and a 3D film. These offerings provide further entertainment and educational value but are not part of the included package.

Visitors interested in a more immersive experience may want to consider these extras, but the core tour already presents a comprehensive look at Ice Age fossils and the ongoing fossil excavation.

The Experience of Watching Scientists at Work

A highlight of this tour is observing scientists in the Fossil Lab as they clean, study, and prepare fossils for display. This behind-the-scenes view emphasizes the active, scientific nature of the site rather than a static museum.

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable staff and volunteers, who explain their work clearly and passionately. This direct insight into fossil preparation adds a layer of authenticity and makes the visit more meaningful.

Practical Tips for Visiting the La Brea Tar Pits

To maximize the visit, arrive around 10:30 AM when the fossil excavations and scientists’ activities are often in full swing. Parking is available but comes at an additional fee, so plan accordingly.

The excavator tour is free with general admission, but space is limited, and reservations are advised upon arrival. Be prepared for variable weather, as much of the experience is outdoors, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience suits families with children, as children are often fascinated by the large fossils and active dig sites. It also appeals to science enthusiasts who appreciate seeing real fossils being studied in an authentic setting.

History buffs and those curious about the Ice Age will find the exhibits informative and engaging. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a practical, educational outing that combines outdoor geology with inside scientific work.

Final Thoughts on the La Brea Tar Pits Museum Ticket

The $18 admission provides strong value for access to one of the world’s most iconic Ice Age excavation sites. The combination of outdoor sights, active dig sites, and scientific demonstrations makes this tour stand out among Los Angeles attractions.

While additional fees apply for parking and some attractions, the core experience offers enough to fill a memorable day. Visitors who enjoy interactive, science-focused experiences will find this tour both educational and fun.

The positive reviews highlight the engaging guides, the beautiful outdoor gardens, and the chance to see fossils being prepared in real time. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into prehistoric fossils, making it a worthwhile addition to any LA trip.

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Los Angeles: La Brea Tar Pits Museum Ticket

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking included with the ticket?
No, parking fees are not included in the ticket price. The onsite parking lot is available for an additional fee.

Can I visit the fossil excavation site?
Yes, Pit 91 access is included, allowing visitors to view the active excavation and the bubbling tar pits.

Are there guided tours available?
The core ticket provides general admission and access to the fossil lab, where scientists explain their work. Additional guided experiences like the Excavator Tour are free with admission but require reservation upon arrival.

What are the museum hours?
The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Always check the website for updates or holiday closures before visiting.

Is this experience suitable for young children?
Yes, children generally find the fossils and active dig sites fascinating. The outdoor gardens and hands-on fossil viewing make it especially family-friendly.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
Yes, tickets are available at the door, but purchasing online in advance is recommended to secure a preferred time and avoid queues.