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Discover the Wonders of the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

Explore the fascinating La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, where history comes alive with ancient fossils and the wonders of paleontology in the heart of Los Angeles.

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The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum in Los Angeles is a captivating destination for tourists eager to explore prehistoric life. This unique site features active tar pits where fossils of ancient creatures have been preserved for thousands of years, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visitors can witness paleontologists at work and marvel at the extensive fossil collection on display.

A brief summary to La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the exhibits.
  • Check the schedule for live fossil excavation demonstrations to see paleontologists at work.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park area, with beautiful views of the tar pits.
  • Don't forget to explore the outdoor exhibits for a complete experience of the site.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Burbank, head to the nearest bus stop and catch the Metro Bus Line 94 towards 'Downtown Los Angeles.' Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes. Get off at the stop at Wilshire Blvd & Curson Ave. From there, walk west on Wilshire Blvd for about 10 minutes until you reach the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum located at 5801 Wilshire Blvd.

  • Metro

    If you're near the Burbank Downtown Station, take the Metro Red Line towards 'Union Station.' Transfer at 'Hollywood/Highland' station and take the Metro Bus 217 towards 'Westwood.' Get off at the stop at Wilshire Blvd & Curson Ave. Walk west on Wilshire Blvd for about 10 minutes to reach the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum at 5801 Wilshire Blvd.

  • Walk

    If you're close to the Burbank Town Center, you can take a leisurely walk. Head south on N San Fernando Blvd, then turn left onto W Olive Ave. Continue straight until you reach S Glenoaks Blvd, then turn right. Walk straight until you reach Wilshire Blvd. Turn left on Wilshire Blvd and walk for about 2 miles. After around 40 minutes, you will arrive at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum located at 5801 Wilshire Blvd.

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Discover more about La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offers a unique journey back in time, nestled in the heart of Los Angeles’ Miracle Mile. This remarkable location is home to the world’s only active tar pits, where natural asphalt has seeped up from the ground for tens of thousands of years. As you stroll through the park, you can see bubbling tar pools and learn about the prehistoric creatures that were trapped and preserved within this sticky substance. The museum houses an impressive collection of fossils, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and giant ground sloths, all of which have been excavated from the surrounding tar pits. Educational exhibits and interactive displays make it a perfect destination for families and anyone interested in paleontology. The museum also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, including guided tours, workshops, and lectures. Visitors can engage with knowledgeable staff and watch paleontologists as they uncover new fossils, giving you a firsthand look at the science behind these ancient remains. The outdoor park area is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the intriguing history of the area. Don’t miss the iconic “Page Museum,” where you can dive deeper into the story of the Ice Age and witness the incredible discoveries made right at this site. Accessible and engaging, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Los Angeles. With its blend of natural history and active research, it offers a captivating experience that enlightens visitors about the rich prehistoric past of our planet.

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