California Science Center
4.7(18,943)4.7 out of 5 stars, 18943 reviews Los Angeles, CA
About California Science Center
The California Science Center offers a unique blend of free admission and engaging, interactive science exhibits that are designed to captivate children's curiosity, making it an excellent educational outing for families visiting LA.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families looking for educational outingsChildren interested in science and biologyVisitors to LA seeking budget-friendly activitiesRecommended for kids aged 4 and upEngaging for curious children and families
Why families love it
- Free admission to the majority of the museum
- Interactive learning experiences and science games
- Ecosystem displays featuring land and marine life
- IMAX theater for an additional fee
- Hands-on exhibits that encourage exploration
- Well-laid-out space with minimal lines
Insider tips
- Plan to spend 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits
- Consider bringing a packed lunch to avoid high food prices
- Be prepared for discussions about reproduction if visiting with younger children
Good to know before you go
- Weekends may be busier; consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience
- Construction of the Shuttle Discovery building limits access to that exhibit
- Some parents may find the reproduction exhibit uncomfortable for younger children
- Crowds
- Weekends tend to be busier; weekdays are likely less crowded
- Value
- Free entry with a $20 parking fee; offers significant value compared to other paid attractions in LA, especially for educational content
- Food
- Outside food is allowed but cannot be consumed at exhibits
- Accessibility
- No specific accommodations mentioned in reviews
- Safety
- No specific safety measures mentioned in reviews
What parents say
"This place is a must-see if you’re taking a trip to LA!‼️ First, it’s free to the public (aside from the $20 parking fee for the day), and second, you’ll enjoy exploring science and human evolution over the last century. Plus, your kids will love it! There are plenty of science games and interactive learning experiences. It usually takes about two to three hours to see everything. There’s also a food court inside, as well as an IMAX theater (which isn’t free—you’ll need to pay separately to watch a movie)."
a week ago
"Fun and informative. Lots of exhibits to explore. The space capsules were really cool. The Shuttle Discovery building is in the process of being constructed around the exhibit/shuttle itself so that was off limits for the time. They say it should be completed in 2 years."
a week ago
"Great place to bring your kids. It's Free to the public on the majority of the Museum. The only attraction that you will have to pay is the IMAX or a Temporary exhibit. It's well laid out and there were rarely any lines. It's a fantastic place if you want your kids to get an introduction to science and biology. Just be aware they do have an exhibit of reproduction. They make it fun but if you're not ready to have the conversation of the birds and the bees, just be aware."
3 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
