California Science Center: Explore the Wonders of Science
Explore interactive science exhibits, see the Space Shuttle Endeavour, and discover the wonders of science at the California Science Center.
The California Science Center is a dynamic destination that makes science accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages. Founded in 1951 as the California Museum of Science and Industry, it transformed into the California Science Center in 1998. Located in Exposition Park, the center is a public-private partnership between the State of California and the California Science Center Foundation. The Science Center's permanent exhibits include the World of Life, which explores the intricacies of living organisms; Ecosystems, featuring live animals and immersive environments; and the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which will be the future home of Space Shuttle Endeavour. Currently, visitors can view the Endeavour in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion and learn about its missions through interactive displays. The center also hosts temporary exhibitions and an IMAX theater, offering a variety of educational and entertaining experiences. Visitors can explore a range of topics, from the human body and its functions to the complexities of various ecosystems. Interactive exhibits allow guests to step inside a womb room, take a cyber-flight through the circulatory system, and observe marine life in a 28-foot-high kelp forest tank. The Science Center also showcases artifacts from the space exploration era, including capsules from the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project and the Mercury-Redstone 2 mission. With its engaging exhibits and commitment to science education, the California Science Center inspires curiosity and fosters a deeper understanding of the world around us.
Local tips
- General admission to the Science Center's permanent exhibits is free, but there are separate fees for IMAX movies and special exhibitions.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can be challenging.
- Take the Metro Expo Line to the Expo Park/USC station for a convenient and traffic-free way to reach the Science Center.
- Visit the California Science Center's website to reserve timed-entry tickets for special exhibits and IMAX movies.
A brief summary to California Science Center
- 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, South Figueroa Corridor, California, 90037, US
- +1323-724-3623
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Metro Expo Line provides direct access to the California Science Center. From anywhere on the Expo Line, take the train to the Expo Park/USC Station. The Science Center is located directly across the street from the station. A one-way trip on Metro bus and rail is $1.75, which includes two hours of free transfers.
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Driving
If driving, take the Harbor Freeway (110) and exit at 39th Street/Exposition Park Drive. Turn left onto 39th Street/Exposition Park Drive and proceed straight into Exposition Park. Follow the guest parking signs to the parking structure. Parking costs $20 until 5:00 p.m. and $24 after 5:00 p.m. for cars and regular-sized vehicles. Oversized vehicles, such as RVs and limousines, cost $42 to park.
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Ride Sharing
When using a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft, set the drop-off location as Exposition Park Drive and Figueroa Street for the most convenient access to the California Science Center. From this location, it is a short walk to the Science Center entrance. Ride-sharing costs vary, but a short trip within the vicinity of Exposition Park typically ranges from $10 to $20.
