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Discover the Wonders of Prehistoric Los Angeles at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

Explore the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, a unique destination in Los Angeles where prehistoric history comes alive through fossils and interactive exhibits.

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The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offers a unique glimpse into Los Angeles's prehistoric past, showcasing fascinating fossil discoveries, exciting exhibits, and the iconic tar pits. Ideal for families and history enthusiasts alike.

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

  • Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking both indoors and outdoors.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events or guided tours to enhance your experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the fascinating exhibits and the unique tar pits.
  • Don’t miss the gift shop for unique souvenirs related to paleontology.
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Getting There

  • Public Transit - Metro Bus

    To reach the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, start by finding the nearest Metro Bus stop. If you are in downtown Los Angeles, you can take the Metro Bus Line 20 or 217 from various stops along 7th St or Spring St. Board the bus and ride towards the 'Wilshire Blvd / La Brea Ave' stop. Once you arrive, you will see the museum directly ahead, a short walk from the bus stop.

  • Public Transit - Metro Rail

    If you are near a Metro Rail station, board the Purple Line towards 'Wilshire/Western'. Get off at 'Wilshire/La Brea' station. From the station, head east on Wilshire Blvd for about a 10-minute walk. You will pass various shops and restaurants. The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum will be on your left at 5801 Wilshire Blvd.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby in the Miracle Mile area, walking to the La Brea Tar Pits is a great option. Start at the corner of Wilshire Blvd and La Brea Ave. Head east on Wilshire Blvd for a few blocks, and you will see the museum on your left. It’s an easy and pleasant walk, taking about 10-15 minutes.

  • Rideshare Service

    If you prefer a more direct route, consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply open the app, enter 'La Brea Tar Pits and Museum' as your destination, and follow the on-screen instructions to meet your driver. This option is convenient if you are further away or have luggage.

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Discover more about La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum stands as a remarkable testament to the prehistoric era, nestled in the heart of Los Angeles. This iconic location is not just a museum, but a dynamic site where visitors can witness the fossilization process in real-time. The tar pits have been a treasure trove for paleontologists, yielding an extraordinary collection of fossils from the last Ice Age, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and ancient birds. The museum features a range of engaging exhibits that bring these ancient creatures back to life through interactive displays and informative presentations. As you stroll through the museum, you’ll encounter life-sized replicas of extinct animals and learn about the science behind their preservation. The outdoor tar pits themselves are a fascinating sight, with bubbling tar pools that have entrapped countless creatures over thousands of years. Guided tours are available and highly recommended to enrich your experience, providing deeper insights into the ongoing excavations and the significance of the finds. The La Brea Tar Pits is not just a place for education; it’s also a family-friendly destination where kids can participate in hands-on activities to spark their interest in paleontology. The lush green spaces surrounding the pits offer perfect picnic spots, making it an ideal day out for both locals and tourists. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with one of the most significant fossil sites in the world while soaking in the beauty of Los Angeles’s Miracle Mile.

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