


La Brea Tar Pits Museum
- Los Angeles
- United States
Journey to the Ice Age with a visit to the La Brea Tar Pits Museum, the world’s only active urban fossil dig site. Witness bubbling tar and see scientists unearth ancient relics. Discover the remains of mammoths and saber-toothed cats while learning about the Earth’s fascinating history through ongoing excavations and exhibits.
About
Smartphone tickets accepted
Instant ticket delivery
Wheelchair accessible
Kid friendly
Best times:
Morning, Early afternoon.Free cancellation
Free rescheduling
Highlights
- Discover Ice Age fossils at the world’s only active urban fossil dig site.
- Witness bubbling tar and see mammoth and saber-toothed cat remains.
- Explore ongoing excavations and educational exhibits.
- Participate in the Excavator Tour included with admission.
Overview
Get ready to time travel to an age where mammoths roamed and saber-toothed cats prowled! The La Brea Tar Pits, the world's only active urban fossil dig site, offers a journey that's as exhilarating as it is educational.
Find yourself spellbound by the sight of tar still bubbling up from the ground, a testament to the constant churn of time. See where scientists are doing painstaking work to unearth ancient relics at the fossil excavation site.
Each new discovery reveals an exciting piece of the Earth's fascinating history and a close encounter with the magnificent beasts that once ruled our planet.
What's Included
General admission to the museum at La Brea Tar Pits
The Excavator Tour
What's Not Included
Parking fees
Admission to special exhibitions
Instruction
- Present your smartphone voucher at the entrance to the museum.
Additional Info
Los Angeles County residents can enjoy complimentary museum entry between 3-5 p.m. on weekdays, with onsite ticket availability.
The museum's parking lot is located at the corner of Curson Avenue and 6th Street, directly behind the museum
The Excavator Tour is included with General Admission and can be reserved onsite
If you're a student, please bring a valid student identification card.
Opening Hours
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation is possible until 24 hours before your visit date.
- Rescheduling is possible until 24 hours before your visit date.
Tips
- Arrive early to fully experience the museum and avoid crowds.
- Explore the bubbling tar pits and ongoing excavation sites for a unique insight into prehistoric life.
- Reserve your Excavator Tour on-site to ensure you don't miss out.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.
- Check for any special exhibits or events that might be happening during your visit.
How to Get There
Frequently Asked Questions about La Brea Tar Pits Museum
A visit to the La Brea Tar Pits Museum is a fascinating journey back to the Ice Age. You’ll witness the world’s only active urban fossil dig site, where bubbling tar reveals ancient relics. Explore exhibits showcasing mammoth and saber-toothed cat remains, and delve into ongoing excavations that illuminate Earth’s prehistoric history. The museum offers an engaging experience with its unique blend of scientific discovery and historical exploration.
To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore. Wear comfortable shoes as there is significant walking involved. Make sure to bring your smartphone voucher for entry and check if you need to reserve the Excavator Tour onsite. Don’t forget to check for any special exhibitions or events that may enhance your visit.
The highlights include witnessing the bubbling tar pits, seeing the excavation of Ice Age fossils, and exploring exhibits featuring remains of mammoths and saber-toothed cats. The Excavator Tour, included with your admission, provides an interactive experience where you can learn about the excavation process and see scientists at work. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with ancient history.
The Excavator Tour is a special feature included with your general admission. It offers an insider's view of the excavation process at the tar pits. You’ll learn about the techniques used by scientists to uncover and analyze fossils. This tour is available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be reserved on-site, so be sure to inquire upon arrival.
The museum's parking lot is conveniently located at the corner of Curson Avenue and 6th Street, directly behind the museum. There is a parking fee, so be prepared to pay for parking upon arrival. Make sure to arrive early to secure a spot and have enough time to enjoy the museum without rushing.
You can cancel your tickets up to 24 hours before your scheduled visit for a full refund. If you need to reschedule, you can do so up to 24 hours before your visit date. This flexibility ensures you have ample time to adjust your plans if needed.
Check the museum’s website or contact their information desk for details on any special events or temporary exhibits occurring during your visit. These events can offer additional insights and enhance your experience at the museum.
Bring your smartphone voucher for a smooth entry process and comfortable walking shoes. Expect to be intrigued by the active fossil excavation and the interactive exhibits that showcase prehistoric life. Be prepared for an educational experience that combines science and history in a unique setting.
Visiting early in the day is recommended to avoid crowds and get the most out of your experience. Weekdays typically offer a quieter visit compared to weekends. Check the museum's schedule for any special programs or tours that might be available.
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