Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Admission

Trying to decide whether a visit to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is worth your time? We haven’t been there ourselves, but based on extensive reviews and official info, we can give you a pretty clear picture of what you’ll experience. If you’re into dinosaurs, gems, fossils, or just want a fun, educational day out, this museum could well be a highlight of your LA trip.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its broad variety of exhibits—from towering skeletons to glittering gemstones—and the interactive aspects that keep both kids and adults engaged. Plus, the price point at just $18 per person appears to offer a solid bang-for-your-buck. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the museum can get busy, especially during school trips, which might make it trickier to see everything you want.

This tour is best suited for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about natural sciences. If you have kids or are eager to see dinosaurs and learn about California’s natural past, it’s a great pick. If you’re after a more relaxed, less crowded experience, off-peak hours are your best bet.

Key Points

• Affordable entry with lots of value for both adults and children
• Diverse exhibits including fossils, dinosaurs, gems, and local flora and fauna
• Interactive elements like the Dino Lab and Nature Lab enhance engagement
• Family-friendly environment with plenty to see and do for all ages
• Potential busy times during school trips or special events
• Good location near public transportation, making it accessible

What Makes This Museum Stand Out

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a solid choice if you’re after a well-rounded natural history experience. Its collection of over 300 fossils and 20 complete skeletons makes it a treasure trove for dinosaur lovers. The highlight for many—especially those traveling with kids—is the Dinosaur Encounters show, which brings to life the prehistoric giants in a fun, educational way. If you’re lucky, you might get a behind-the-scenes peek at the Dino Lab, which adds a layer of authenticity and insight into paleontological work.

The museum’s evolution of life showcase, featuring 240 specimens, brings visitors through 65 million years of history. From mammoth skeletons to whale displays, you’ll gain a sense of the scale and diversity of natural history. Many reviews praise the dioramas and animal skeletons, which are often described as “outstanding” and “amazing,” making complex science accessible and engaging.

One of the less obvious but appreciated features is the Gem and Mineral Hall—home to over 2,000 dazzling specimens including diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and gold. It’s a surprisingly colorful and glittering contrast to the more “bones and fossils” focus, offering a glimpse into Earth’s mineral wealth. The Nature Gardens and Nature Lab provide a quiet, hands-on way to explore native plants and animals, making this a well-rounded outing for those interested in the environment.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The visit begins at the Natural History Museum, where you’ll be greeted by a wide array of exhibits. Walking into the Dinosaur Hall, you’ll immediately notice the 300+ fossils and complete skeletons, which really impress both kids and adults. The Dinosaur Encounters show is a popular feature—an engaging way to learn about prehistoric creatures and their growth patterns. As one reviewer put it, “The most spectacular exhibition was the dinosaurs and the reason why we went to the museum.”

Next, you move through the epic story of evolution with displays of mastodons, whales, and animal dioramas from North America and Africa. The Dino Lab provides a behind-the-scenes glance at palaeontologists at work, which adds a layer of authenticity to the experience. Many visitors, like one who said, “This museum has a little bit of everything for someone visiting LA for the first time,” find this section particularly memorable.

After that, you’ll explore the Gems and Minerals Hall, home to more than 2,000 sparkling specimens. It’s a highlight for those who appreciate natural beauty—imagine walking past shimmering sapphires and glittering diamonds. It’s more than just pretty rocks; it offers insight into Earth’s geological processes.

Finally, the Nature Gardens and Nature Lab are perfect for a breather. These areas allow visitors to interact with native plants and observe local creatures firsthand. Whether you’re checking out a collection of L.A. native species or wandering through lush gardens, it’s a peaceful end to a busy day of exploration.

The Experience and Atmosphere

While the museum is generally praised for its informative and friendly staff and well-organized layout, some reviews mention that it can get crowded, especially during school trips. One review notes, “Went the wrong day and couldn’t see many things because of school kids.” If you’re visiting on a weekend or during school holidays, arriving early might help you avoid the biggest crowds.

The dinosaur exhibits are consistently highlighted as the main draw, with many saying they are “spectacular” and “impressive.” The Dinosaur Encounters show is an added ticket, but many reviewers felt it was worth the extra expense. The dioramas and fossil displays are described as both educational and visually stunning, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone with a keen interest in natural history.

For families, the interactive exhibits like the dig area and bug display are highlights, especially for children who enjoy hands-on learning. Several reviews mention how kids’ eyes light up at the sight of the enormous dinosaurs or the glittering gemstones, making it a day to remember.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The ticket price of $18 per person is quite reasonable given the extensive collections and varied exhibits. Most reviews agree that it’s good value, especially for a full day’s worth of exploration. Keep in mind that Dinosaur Encounters requires an additional ticket, which can be purchased at the museum. If you’re especially interested in dinosaurs, budgeting for this extra is worthwhile.

The museum’s opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Plan to arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak times or special events. The museum is near public transportation, making it accessible without a car, which is a big plus in LA.

For those concerned about the logistics, some reviews mentioned issues with parking—either full lots or needing to use paid parking farther away. Walking or public transit can save frustration, especially during busy days.

Lastly, the cancellation policy is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds a layer of convenience if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Visit?

This museum is particularly good for families with kids, thanks to its interactive exhibits and engaging displays. It’s also a hit with dinosaurs enthusiasts or anyone interested in natural sciences. Those seeking a cost-effective, educational, and fun indoor activity in Los Angeles will find plenty to enjoy here.

If you’re a solo traveler or a couple interested in science and natural history, this museum offers a rich experience without requiring a huge investment of time or money. However, if you’re after a more relaxed or less crowded visit, choosing off-peak hours or weekdays might be best.

Final Thoughts

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers a well-balanced mix of fossils, dinosaurs, minerals, and native flora and fauna. Its interactive elements and diverse exhibits make it a compelling option for anyone eager to learn about the natural world. While it can get busy, especially during school trips, many visitors find the experience rewarding and worth the price.

For those traveling with children or simply with a curiosity for Earth’s history, this museum delivers on both entertainment and education. The knowledgeable guides, stunning displays, and engaging shows like Dinosaur Encounters make it a memorable addition to any LA itinerary.

If you appreciate value for money, hands-on learning, and a variety of exhibits, this experience is a solid choice. Just plan ahead for busy times and consider the extra for the dinosaur show if that’s a big draw for you.

FAQ

Is this ticket valid for a specific date?
Yes, you need to book your ticket in advance, and most visitors book about a week in advance. The ticket is for a specific date and time, so plan accordingly.

Are children allowed at this museum?
Absolutely. It’s very family-friendly, with plenty of interactive exhibits and fun displays that kids love, especially the dinosaur and bug exhibits.

What are the opening hours?
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s advisable to arrive early to beat the crowds.

Can I cancel this reservation?
Yes, the ticket offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled visit.

Is the Dinosaur Encounters show included?
No, it’s an add-on that you can purchase on-site when you arrive. Many reviews feel it’s worth the extra cost.

What other experiences are similar to this?
Similar options include the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum or the Aquarium of the Pacific, both offering natural history and marine life exhibits.

Is parking available nearby?
Parking can be limited, and some reviews mention full lots or higher parking fees at nearby lots. Public transportation is recommended if possible.

Who operates the tour?
The experience is provided by the LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY FOUNDATION.

If you’re planning a day filled with discovery and wonder about our planet’s past, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a worthwhile destination. Just remember to check the weather and avoid peak hours if you want a more relaxed visit. Happy exploring!