California Science Center: A Universe of Discovery in Los Angeles

The California Science Center is an exceptional destination for a day of learning and fun for the whole family, and it is completely free to visit. Located in Los Angeles’ Exposition Park, it is one of the most popular museums in California.

The museum features impressive permanent exhibits such as Creative World, Ecosystems, and World of Life, as well as exciting temporary exhibitions like Journey to Space. Note that while general admission is free, some special exhibits may require a ticket, which you can purchase at the ticket booth or online.

In addition to exhibits, the museum boasts a large-format IMAX Theater that screens films on scientific themes, often presented in stunning 3D. These experiences make science accessible and inspiring for visitors of all ages.

Fun Fact: The California Science Center is one of the few museums in the world where you can see a real space shuttle up close. Over 18 million visitors have seen Endeavour since it arrived in 2012.

Space Shuttle Endeavour

The highlight of the Science Center is undoubtedly the Space Shuttle Endeavour, on display at the Samuel Oschin Pavilion.

To reach the Endeavour, visitors first pass through the Ecosystems Gallery. Once inside the exhibit hall, the sheer size of the shuttle is breathtaking, dwarfing the crowds gazing up in awe.

Surrounding Endeavour are displays that include a shuttle engine, astronaut equipment, and videos documenting space missions. A full-size external tank and rocket boosters are part of the planned display in the upcoming Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which will house the shuttle in vertical launch position.

Important Notice: The Endeavour exhibit is currently closed as it prepares for its permanent move to the new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center.

Ecosystems Exhibit

The Ecosystems exhibit allows visitors to explore a variety of environmental zones, including Earth’s forests, rivers, deserts, islands, and extreme environments. The L.A. Zone showcases the city’s unique urban ecology.

Traveler Tip: Don’t miss the Kelp Forest aquarium inside the Ecosystems exhibit, where divers sometimes interact with marine life during feeding demonstrations.

Creative World Exhibit

The Creative World exhibit is an interactive space where visitors can engage in hands-on engineering and physics activities. Build structures and test their resilience against simulated earthquakes, explore how wind lifts an airplane’s wings in a wind tunnel, or use solar energy to power model cars. This is a place where science truly comes alive.

The Discovery Room is designed for younger children, offering hands-on toys, science experiments, and educational games. Kids can also explore the Air and Space section and imagine themselves piloting a space shuttle.

World of Life Exhibit

The World of Life exhibit takes visitors on a journey through the human body and the building blocks of life. From DNA sequencing to a walk-through model of the human heart, this gallery explains biological processes in a fun and interactive way.

User Comment: “My kids loved the World of Life exhibit—it’s interactive and educational. They especially enjoyed the giant heart model!” — Visitor from San Diego

Maya Exhibit

During a recent visit, the Maya exhibit captivated audiences with artifacts from ancient Maya civilization. Visitors also enjoyed an IMAX documentary that revealed lost cities deep in the jungles of Central America. 

This exhibit is now closed.

Scientific Films at the IMAX Theater

The IMAX Theater at the California Science Center is one of the largest in Los Angeles, with a screen towering eight stories high and a state-of-the-art sound system that fully immerses viewers in the action. Whether you’re diving deep into the ocean, soaring through space, or exploring ancient civilizations, the IMAX experience makes you feel like you are part of the journey.

One of the most popular features is the Journey to Space IMAX 3D film, which places viewers aboard the space shuttle and the International Space Station. The film provides a breathtaking view of Earth from orbit, while also exploring the future of human space travel to Mars.

In addition to space-themed films, the theater regularly showcases documentaries on wildlife, natural wonders, and cutting-edge science topics. These films are often exclusive to IMAX and designed to educate as well as entertain audiences of all ages.

User Comment: “Watching a space film here was incredible—the screen is so huge, it felt like I was floating in orbit! Definitely worth the extra ticket.” — Visitor from Chicago

Screenings at the IMAX theater change regularly. Find the latest schedule at the official website.

Find Fun and Educational Toys at the Explora Store

Before leaving, stop by the Explora Store, where you can find souvenirs, science kits, space models, rock collections, and books. It’s a great place to inspire future scientists.

Traveler Tip: If you’re shopping for kids, look for the STEM activity kits - they make excellent educational gifts.

Plan your visit and learn more about the center at their official website.

Dining at the California Science Center

Spending a full day exploring the California Science Center can work up an appetite. Luckily, the museum offers convenient on-site dining options as well as nearby choices within Exposition Park.

Inside the Science Center, the Trimana Grill & Café serves a variety of family-friendly meals, including sandwiches, burgers, salads, pizza, and kids’ options. The café also offers coffee, snacks, and desserts, making it a convenient stop between exhibits.

User Comment: “We had lunch at Trimana Café—super convenient, reasonably priced, and kid-friendly. The pizza was a hit with our little ones!” — Visitor from San Jose

For lighter options, grab-and-go kiosks are offering packaged snacks and drinks. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own food and enjoy it at the designated picnic areas, including shaded spots near the Rose Garden.

If you’re looking to explore beyond the museum, Exposition Park and the nearby USC neighborhood feature several dining options, from casual food trucks to sit-down restaurants.

Traveler Tip: The Rose Garden next to the Science Center is a lovely spot for a picnic—bring your own food and enjoy a relaxing outdoor lunch surrounded by flowers.

Explore Exposition Park

The California Science Center is conveniently located in Exposition Park, near the University of Southern California (USC). This urban park offers several world-class attractions and recreational spaces.

• Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County: Discover exhibits on dinosaurs, gems and minerals, and ancient cultures.
• California African American Museum: Explore art, artifacts, and programs highlighting African American history and culture.
• Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum: Visit this historic stadium, which has hosted two Olympic Games and is home to USC Trojans football.
• Rose Garden: Stroll through the seven-acre Rose Garden, especially beautiful during spring and summer.

Traveler Tip: Exposition Park is accessible via the Metro E Line (Expo Line), making it easy to visit without worrying about traffic or parking.

Plan your visit to Exposition Park and learn more at the official website.

California Science Center

Official website: www.californiasciencecenter.org