Background

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County: A Journey Through Time

Explore 4.5 billion years of history at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, from dinosaurs to gems!

4.8

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM), established in 1913, is the largest natural and historical museum in the western United States. Located in Exposition Park, its collections span 4.5 billion years, offering an immersive exploration of Earth's history, from dinosaurs to diverse cultures.

A brief summary to Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 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

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to ensure entry, especially during peak seasons.
  • Visit after 3 p.m. on weekdays for free admission for L.A. County residents (except the first Tuesday of the month).
  • Take the Metro Expo Line to the Expo/USC or Expo/Vermont station for a convenient and eco-friendly way to arrive; show your TAP card for a discount.
  • Check the museum's website for special events, temporary exhibitions, and Dinosaur Encounters show times.
  • Explore the Nature Gardens, a 3.5-acre living exhibit showcasing Southern California's native flora and fauna.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Downtown Los Angeles, take the Metro E Line (Expo) to the Expo Park/USC or Expo/Vermont station. Both stations are within walking distance of the museum. The E Line runs frequently, and the ride from downtown takes approximately 15-20 minutes. A single ride fare is $1.75. Show your TAP card at check-in for a $2 discount.

  • Walking

    From the University of Southern California (USC), walk south on Vermont Avenue or Figueroa Street towards Exposition Park. The museum is located on Exposition Boulevard between these two streets. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from the center of the USC campus. There are no tolls or special access fees for walking.

  • Driving

    From the I-110 (Harbor) Freeway, exit at Exposition Boulevard and head east. Follow the signs for Exposition Park. Limited parking is available in the NHM Car Park on Bill Robertson Lane for a flat rate of $20. Additional parking is available at the Blue Structure Parking Lot on Figueroa Street at 39th Street for $20 before 5 PM and $24 after 5 PM. Payment at the NHM Car Park is by credit card only; the Blue Structure accepts cash, Mastercard, or Visa.

Unlock the Best of Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, a cornerstone of Los Angeles since 1913, invites visitors to explore the vast history of our planet. As one of the oldest cultural institutions in LA, the museum houses nearly 35 million specimens and artifacts, providing a comprehensive look at natural and cultural history. The museum's exhibits are spread across three floors, featuring everything from dinosaur skeletons in Dinosaur Hall to the diverse flora and fauna of Southern California in the Nature Gardens. Popular exhibits include the Gem and Mineral Hall, the Insect Zoo, and the Age of Mammals exhibit. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, such as 'L.A. Underwater,' which showcases fossils from the prehistoric ocean that once covered Los Angeles. NHM is more than just a museum; it's an active research center. Its team of scientists studies the collections, making discoveries that enhance our understanding of the natural world. The museum also engages the community through citizen science projects and hands-on teaching. Visitors can explore the museum's origins in the Rotunda, a Beaux-Arts space with marble columns and a stained-glass dome. The museum is associated with the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits and the William S. Hart Ranch and Museum, expanding its reach across Greater Los Angeles. Whether you're interested in dinosaurs, minerals, or the natural history of Southern California, the Natural History Museum offers a captivating and educational experience.

Popular Experiences near Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Popular Hotels near Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Select Currency