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California Science Center

700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles, California

Description

The California Science Center is a museum (and state agency) located in Exposition Park, Los Angeles. Its permanent exhibits are focused on Air & Space (aircrafts, exploration, observation), ecosystems (kelp forest, rocky shore, desert, poles, deep-sea vents, rivers, islands and L.A.), Life beginnings (reproduction and genes) and fire (science & safety). The highlights include the Space Shuttle Endeavour and some military aircrafts. There is also the option of a 3D IMAX movie with combined tickets, but this is not part of the scope of this review.

Access & Transport

The museum is in Exposition Park, at the corner of Figueroa Street and 39th Street, just off I-110 (exit 20A/20B). Parking cost is $15-18 Station "Expo Park / USC' (Line E) is a 2mins' walk away along Exposition Blvd and there are bus stops (102, 550) there as well. Info on how to get there: https://californiasciencecenter.org/visit/directions-parking-transportation Accessibility info: https://californiasciencecenter.org/visit/accessibility-services-amenities

Instructions & Recommendations

*** Timed tickets are required for the IMAX Theater and Special Exhibit. Please purchase your tickets online before arriving to guarantee your preferred time for viewing *** We suggest combining this activity with the Natural History Museum located 2mins walk away, also inside Exposition Park.

Meta review

Online reviews confirm that the main draw there is the space shuttle (and capsules). The other sections and exhibits are clearly aimed at children and teenagers (a lot of school visits apparently) so that some adults are left a bit wanting and find the museum to be on the small side.

Environmental & Social

The center has good environmental practices, including its building and construction + educational aspect. Info here: https://californiasciencecenter.org/press-room/factsheet/2021-01-10/science-center-green-practices

Conclusion

The California Science Center is a good school or family activity for residents, or for travellers who have already spent more than 4-5 days in the city but, with the exception of the space shuttle, the content doesn't put it on the short list of the must-see educational and cultural activities.

Key positive

The Endeavour Space Shuttle!

Educational

Key negative

Parking is a little expensive

Content is a somewhat too 'basic' for adults

Suitability

Suitable for all ages and accessible to visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Box office hours: 9h30 - 16h30. Closed on 25 Dec. and 01 Jan

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:2h

Regulated hours

Monday10:00 - 17:00

Tuesday10:00 - 17:00

Wednesday10:00 - 17:00

Thursday10:00 - 17:00

Friday10:00 - 17:00

Saturday10:00 - 17:00

Sunday10:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
US$20
Adult
18 - 64
US$22
Teen & Young
13 - 17
US$20
Child
3 - 12
US$15
Infant
0 - 2
US$0
Price for Special Exhibition only (not incl. 3D IMAX). Student price is $20

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