Explore the captivating world of prehistoric Los Angeles at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. With an admission ticket and Excavator Tour, visitors can witness ongoing paleontological excavations and uncover the secrets of the region’s Ice Age past. Immersive exhibits, a 3D film, and the opportunity to observe scientists in action make this a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural history of the area. Whether you’re a seasoned fossil enthusiast or simply curious about the past, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offers a unique and engaging experience that will leave you wanting…
Key Points
-
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offers admission tickets that include an Excavator Tour, allowing visitors to observe paleontologists at work in the active dig sites.
-
The Excavator Tour provides a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing excavation and preservation efforts of the Tar Pits’ Ice Age fossils.
-
Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and displays, which showcase the diverse prehistoric creatures, such as mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves, that once roamed the region.
-
The museum’s open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and is wheelchair accessible, catering to visitors of all ages and accessibility needs.
-
Visitor reviews of the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum praise the educational, interactive, and family-friendly experience, as well as the opportunity to witness the scientific process firsthand.
Overview of the Tar Pits
The La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles, California are a unique and captivating natural phenomenon, where visitors can explore the remnants of an ancient Ice Age ecosystem.
The tar pits have preserved a wealth of Ice Age specimens, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and ground sloths.
Paleontologists continue to excavate, collect, and preserve these fascinating fossils, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
The museum’s exhibits and ongoing excavation efforts provide an immersive and educational experience, allowing visitors to learn about the significance of the tar pits and the insights they offer into the prehistoric world.
With its interactive displays and hands-on activities, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offers a captivating and enlightening visit for all ages.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Los Angeles
Featured Prehistoric Discoveries
Visitors exploring the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum can expect to uncover a treasure trove of prehistoric discoveries, with a remarkable assortment of Ice Age specimens on display. Among the star attractions are the well-preserved remains of mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and ground sloths, all of which were trapped in the sticky tar pits thousands of years ago.
Prehistoric Specimen | Unique Characteristics |
---|---|
Mammoths | Massive, woolly elephants with long curved tusks |
Saber-toothed Cats | Fearsome predators with elongated upper canine teeth |
Dire Wolves | Larger and more robust than modern gray wolves |
These captivating fossils offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the diversity and adaptations of the creatures that once roamed the region.
Excavation and Preservation Efforts
Ongoing excavation, collection, and preservation efforts by paleontologists at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum continue to uncover new insights into the region’s prehistoric past.
Teams of researchers meticulously work to carefully extract and study the well-preserved fossils trapped within the tar, piecing together the story of this unique Ice Age ecosystem.
The excavation of Pit 91, one of the most productive fossil sites, provides visitors with a glimpse into the active scientific process. Visitors can observe paleontologists as they delicately uncover and document their finds, which are then carefully curated and preserved for future research and public display.
These tireless efforts ensure that the secrets of the Tar Pits continue to be revealed.
Included Experiences and Exhibits
Alongside the excavation efforts, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offers visitors an array of engaging experiences and exhibits to explore.
Visitors can take an Excavator Tour to watch paleontologists at work in the clear-glass Paleontology Room. They’ll also have access to the iconic Pit 91, the Pleistocene Gardens, and the Atrium.
Souvenir photos are available for purchase, and visitors can catch the Ice Age Encounters show and a 3D film on-site.
The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and is wheelchair accessible, though moderate walking is required.
With its combination of educational and interactive elements, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum promises a fun and enlightening experience for all ages.
Facility Details and Accessibility
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, making it accessible to visitors throughout the week.
The facility is wheelchair accessible, though moderate walking is required to fully explore the grounds and exhibits.
Located near public transportation, the museum also welcomes service animals, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
Visitors can look forward to a seamless and comfortable visit, as the museum’s dedicated staff work to provide a welcoming and accessible environment.
Whether you’re interested in the excavation process, the Pleistocene Gardens, or the engaging exhibits, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum caters to a diverse range of interests and accessibility needs.
Ready for more culture? More museums we feature in Los Angeles
- La Brea Tar Pits and Museum Admission Ticket With Excavator Tour
- LA Medieval Torture Museum Ticket With Audio Guide and Ghost Hunting
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Admission
- Skip the Line: General Admission Museum of Tolerance Ticket
- Los Angeles & Getty Museum Private Tour
- Los Angeles: Getty Center Museum Guided Tour
Highlights for Visitors
Visitors can watch scientists working in the clear-glass Paleontology Room, offering a unique glimpse into the ongoing excavation and preservation efforts at the La Brea Tar Pits.
Here, they’ll learn about the history and exhibits of this fascinating site, which has yielded an abundance of Ice Age specimens like mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves.
Visitors can also observe the bubbling tar pools and prehistoric dig sites, providing a vivid connection to the ancient past.
Whether you’re a budding paleontologist or simply curious about the wonders of the Ice Age, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is sure to captivate and educate visitors of all ages.
Visitor Reviews and Ratings
With 138 reviews and a 4.5 rating, visitors consistently praise the educational, interactive, and fun-for-all-ages experience offered by the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum.
Reviewers highlight the museum’s ability to bring the Ice Age to life, with many noting the fascination of watching scientists work in the clear-glass Paleontology Room.
Families appreciate the engaging exhibits and the opportunity to observe the bubbling tar pools and prehistoric dig sites.
Whether exploring the Pleistocene Gardens or taking in the Ice Age Encounters show, guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the museum’s role in preserving and sharing this remarkable paleontological treasure.
How to Get There
Conveniently located in the heart of Los Angeles, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum can be easily accessed via public transportation. Visitors traveling by subway can take the Metro Purple Line and get off at the Wilshire/Fairfax station, which is just a short walk away from the museum’s entrance. For those driving, there are several parking options nearby, including the Farmer’s Market lot and the Spaulding Avenue parking structure. The museum is also easily accessible for those with disabilities, with wheelchair-friendly paths and elevators available throughout the facility.
Getting to the Museum | ||
---|---|---|
Public Transportation | Metro Purple Line | Wilshire/Fairfax Station |
Driving | Farmer’s Market Lot | Spaulding Avenue Garage |
Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly | Elevators Available |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Photography and Video Permitted Throughout the Museum?
Photography and video are generally permitted throughout the museum, with some exceptions. Visitors are advised to follow any posted guidelines or instructions from staff regarding appropriate use of cameras and video equipment on the premises.
Can I Purchase Tickets and Make Reservations Online in Advance?
Yes, visitors can purchase tickets and make reservations online in advance for the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. This allows them to skip the line and ensure availability for their desired visit time.
Are Any Food or Dining Options Available On-Site?
Yes, there are dining options available on-site at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. Visitors can enjoy snacks, coffee, and light meals at the on-site café, which offers a range of refreshments and food items.
What Is the Average Time Required to Explore the Entire Museum?
Visitors typically spend 2-3 hours exploring the entire La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. The extensive exhibits and ongoing excavation provide an immersive experience, allowing guests to learn about the Ice Age fossils and see paleontologists at work.
Are Group Discounts or Educational Packages Offered for School Visits?
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offers group discounts and educational packages for school visits. These packages include guided tours, hands-on activities, and access to the museum’s excavation sites and exhibits.
Recap
Enjoy the captivating world of prehistoric Los Angeles at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum.
Witness ongoing excavations, explore interactive exhibits, and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich paleontological heritage.
With its engaging experiences and fascinating insights, this museum offers a truly unique opportunity to connect with the wonders of the Ice Age.
More Tickets in Los Angeles
- Aquarium of the Pacific + Shoreline Village Transfer With Tickets
- Disneyland Resort Tickets
- Museum Row Tour: the Fast and Fossilized With Academy Ticket
- Los Angeles Chargers Football Game Ticket at SoFi Stadium
- Los Angeles Clippers Basketball Game Ticket
- Los Angeles: USC Trojans College Football Game Ticket
More Tours in Los Angeles
- Silverlake Food Tour With Comedian Guide
- Ghosts of Hollywood Night-Time Walking Tour
- Downtown LA Lights: Your Private Sunset and Night Helicopter Tour
- Private Car Tour LA Hollywood Beverly Hills Venice Santa Monica
- 2-Days Private Tour to Joshua Tree National Park From Los Angeles
- LA Food Tour, Art District and Little Tokyo Night Stroll
More Tour Reviews in Los Angeles
- Virtual Reality Experience Near LAX, Beach, Nature, Adventure
- Los Angeles: The Pink Panther and the Case of the Missing Diamond
- Los Angeles Private Custom Tour
- Private Greater Los Angeles and Shoreline Village Tour.
- Catalina Island Day Trip From LAX Area Hotels With Undersea Adventure
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Hotel Shuttle
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Los Angeles we have recnetly reviewed
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Los Angeles
- 7 Best Dining Experiences In Los Angeles
- 7 Best Full-Day Tours In Los Angeles
- 5 Best 2 Day Tours In Los Angeles
- 25 Best Helicopter Flights And Tours In Los Angeles
- 4 Best 3 Day Tours In Los Angeles
- 4 Best 4 Day Tours In Los Angeles
- 2 Best Coffee Tours And Tastings In Los Angeles
- 20 Best Photography Experiences In Los Angeles
- 7 Best Dinner Tours In Los Angeles
- 20 Best Food Tours In Los Angeles
- Combo: Ferrari, Bus Tour, Hollywood Sign and Beverly Hills