California Science Center
California Science Center
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Welcome to the California Science Center! Please note that advance timed-entry reservations are required for all guests and can be booked online. Upon arrival, all guests are required to verify that they have self-screened and are free of COVID symptoms. Space Shuttle Endeavour on display in the California Science Center's Samuel Oschin Pavilion. Explore over 100 permanent interactive science exhibits spanning several galleries. Admission to permanent exhibit galleries is free! (excludes IMAX and special paid exhibits) Visit Ecosystems -- a hands-on exhibit home to nearly 400 plant and animal species. Come discover amazing environments from the familiar to the fantastic, and find out how the physical and living worlds affect each other.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience California Science Center and nearby attractions
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Exposition Park
How to get there
- Expo Park/USC • 4 min walk
- Expo/Vermont • 7 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
1,707 within 3 miles
Attractions
582 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- JMKAberystwyth, United Kingdom11 contributionsWow...a real space shuttle!Fantastic to see one of the Space Shuttles close up, and see how they go to toilet in space. Spent must of our time in the space area but considering this was free, you could easily spend most of the day here. Some exhibits are just to look at, but there were also interactive exhibits which will entertain and educate all ages.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 24, 2023
- Lena KFullerton, California443 contributionsExcellent venue for the whole familyMy granddaughter and I wanted to see the Endeavour space shuttle before it is moved into its currently-being-constructed building. Once moved, it will no longer be displayed horizontally, but in a vertical position, as it would have looked before its initial launch. We also watched a 3-D movie on Blue Whales in the Center’s IMAX theater. There is a large gift shop and a variety of places to get a meal, snack and beverages.Visited August 2023Traveled with familyWritten August 5, 2023
- Debbie PGlen Waverley, Australia272 contributionsTruly amazing museumWe went to look at the endeavour space shuttle and we were very surprised at the quality and quantity of space exhibits. We did the shuttle simulator which was $6 each and the imax movie about space travel which was $9 each. We spent a lot longer than we had intended in the museum as it was just so good. We have increased our knowledge and had a truly great time. Entry to the space museum area was free. Highly recommend if you like space.Visited September 2023Traveled with familyWritten September 18, 2023
- ThefamilytravellerWhangarei, New Zealand159 contributionsFantastic MuseumThis is a must see in LA. We went to see the space shuttle and there was so much more to look through and keep young minds engaged. There is a lot to do in Los Angeles and this is worth spending a morning or afternoonVisited September 2023Traveled with familyWritten September 30, 2023
- phvi2617Anaheim, California562 contributionsHome of the EndeavourThis is a great science museum in Exposition Park. Most of the exhibits are geared toward kids, but the real star is the Space Shuttle Endeavour. It's incredible to see it up close and in person, and there are a number of artifacts related to the shuttle's assembly in Southern California. Also on display are several aircraft and capsules from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. Unfortunately, the Endeavour will be off display for several years as the new shuttle pavilion is being constructed, but when it is finished it promises to be even more amazing. Aside from the IMAX films, all exhibits are completely free. There is a large food court and a really nice gift shop. Even though it was busy, it never felt crowded.Visited December 2023Traveled soloWritten December 31, 2023
- ccarlson2022Niles, Michigan95 contributionsSpace shuttle Endeavor is a must seeWas in the area with my 17 year old daughter and stopped to see the Endeavor. We visited on December 31 and learned the shuttle was going off display after that day for a few years while they move to a new facility. Our timing couldn’t have been better! This is the third shuttle I have seen out of the 4 on display in the US. Atlantis in Florida is by far the best but this one was cool. It was housed in a building by itself with plenty of room for many people and to take photos. It was elevated so you could walk around and under the entire shuttle. The walk to the shuttle was a bit far but I do get they want you to look at other things as well. We really didn’t stop at many other exhibits, with the exception of a few space exhibits like Mattingly’s Apollo 16 lunar space suit. Gift shop has plenty to purchase and there are a few diners on site as well. Entry was free but we did pay $20 to park next door in the parking garage. The Collosium football stadium that USC plays in is next door so you can take photos of the stadium during the trip if that interests you as well.Visited December 2023Traveled with familyWritten January 21, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,994 reviews
Excellent
2,746
Very good
969
Average
217
Poor
45
Terrible
17
RaoulV445
Palm Springs, CA8 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
Our age ranged from 5 to 72, as we visited the center witnessing the Endeavor space shuttle and a myriad of other extremely interesting activities and exhibits.
Basically everything is free but any special exhibits are $3 per person and parking is $12. Can get tickets on line as some exhibits have to be reserved but they seem very flexible. Airplanes, rockets, aquarium, creativity rooms, space shuttle, human body works, fish, waves, deserts etc. Something for everyone. Easily say the most interesting place I have seen in a long time and they didn’t charge an arm and a leg. If you go on a Sunday during football season you may have to sit in traffic so plan an hour ahead and ensure you get into the lane for $12 parking and not the $65 for football fans. Parking complex is covered. Food court with tacos or pizzas. You can spend 2-3 hrs at the exhibit and even more. I would consider a must if you have kids 5 and up; use as an excuse to see yourself.
Basically everything is free but any special exhibits are $3 per person and parking is $12. Can get tickets on line as some exhibits have to be reserved but they seem very flexible. Airplanes, rockets, aquarium, creativity rooms, space shuttle, human body works, fish, waves, deserts etc. Something for everyone. Easily say the most interesting place I have seen in a long time and they didn’t charge an arm and a leg. If you go on a Sunday during football season you may have to sit in traffic so plan an hour ahead and ensure you get into the lane for $12 parking and not the $65 for football fans. Parking complex is covered. Food court with tacos or pizzas. You can spend 2-3 hrs at the exhibit and even more. I would consider a must if you have kids 5 and up; use as an excuse to see yourself.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
elizabethlascheid
Los Angeles, CA4,884 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
The California Science Museum located Los Angeles, for me at least, is more of a space museum. We absolutely love it. One of is the space shuttles is there and you will learn everything you ever wanted to know about the space shuttle, it's astronauts and its history. This is my favorite part of the museum and my grandson absolutely loves it.
They're also many other things to see at the California Science Museum. An IMAX theater is located there and they usually show natural geographic type movies and things of that nature. There is an extra fee for the IMAX theater.
They also have a wonderful science section that is fascinating.
The museum does charge a fee but it is reasonable and there is ample parking, including handicap parking, and accessible sites for everyone.
They're also many other things to see at the California Science Museum. An IMAX theater is located there and they usually show natural geographic type movies and things of that nature. There is an extra fee for the IMAX theater.
They also have a wonderful science section that is fascinating.
The museum does charge a fee but it is reasonable and there is ample parking, including handicap parking, and accessible sites for everyone.
Written May 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
david
31 contributions
Jun 2021
The California Science Center is well worth visiting. Plan on spending 3-4 hours. There is no charge for admission but there is a charge for the special traveling exhibits. Currently the featured traveling exhibit is titled "The Art of the Block" and features various works of art constructed with Legos blocks. Some are full size animals, others recreated works of art (such as Mona Lisa and ancient sculptures). Free exhibits include a section on dogs which is very interesting. A new exhibit on reproduction is worth visiting. I believe you need to make reservations for the Legos exhibit so you should to verify if this is still the case. The space shuttle Endeavor is also on display. As mentioned most of the exhibits are free to visit. The Science Center is adjacent to the Natural History Museum, Rose Garden and near the USC campus. One could certainly spend the day at the various sites.
Written July 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
queenr0ck
Manchester, UK23 contributions
May 2019
The main reason for the trip was the see Endeavour. The exhibition was very interesting and seeing Endeavour was amazing. Nothing can prepare you for the sheer size of it, it was just breath taking. We also saw the special travelling King Tutankhamen exhibit. The tickets were timed but the entry to it was poorly organised so we had to rush round the exhibit before the museum closed.
Written April 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brooke Brown
Phoenix, AZ92 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
Lovely way to spend an afternoon. It's great admission is free, except for special exhibits. Thoroughly enjoyed seeing the Space Shuttle Endeavour up close! Highly recommend for all ages!
Written February 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Holly M
Marina del Rey, CA54 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
This is free to get into to. I enjoyed the exhibits. I wouldn’t say there was anything overly spectacular but this is a great
place for families with young kids and very affordable for those on a budget. They have done an excellent job with the social distancing and keeping their patrons safe.
place for families with young kids and very affordable for those on a budget. They have done an excellent job with the social distancing and keeping their patrons safe.
Written April 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shanelle
Santa Monica, CA2,826 contributions
Jul 2022 • Friends
Free admission science museum in DTLA. Came here on a Sunday afternoon and spent a couple of hours exploring the exhibits. It’s much larger than you’d think, and you can easily spend a whole day. Garage parking is $15 (cash and card accepted). No food or drinks allowed inside the museum, but we were able to carry our water bottles. It’s a kid-friendly space.
I love the ecosystem exhibits, especially the aquariums. Head outside for the touch tank! There are paid exhibits as well, and you get the timed entry tickets at the front kiosk. There’s the rose garden right outside and there’s plenty of food vendors (some will take Zelle/Venmo) if you’re feeling hungry.
I love the ecosystem exhibits, especially the aquariums. Head outside for the touch tank! There are paid exhibits as well, and you get the timed entry tickets at the front kiosk. There’s the rose garden right outside and there’s plenty of food vendors (some will take Zelle/Venmo) if you’re feeling hungry.
Written July 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SuperDuper Coach
Mitcham, Australia190 contributions
Mar 2022
This is mainly a hands-on science center for kids and teenagers, however it also houses the space shuttle endeavour, which is why we went. Though one can’t go inside the shuttle it is fabulous to be able to walk all around it, and it is presented authentically. There is great information presented audio visually around the shuttle and a good gift shop too. We spent probably an hour in the shuttle hangar (we didn’t visit any of the rest of the science center). It is free to enter unless you want to watch an imax show or see the current special exhibition.
Written March 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LoveTravel695165
6 contributions
Jun 2019 • Couples
Interesting traveling exhibits that usually have a cost and have timed entrances.rest of the museum has very interesting exhibits, but since it's free and is a hands on museum, bring plenty of hand sanitizer. Lots of kids. Avoid weekends. IMAX theater is a great experience.
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vinny C
98 contributions
Feb 2020
The highlight for me was see the Space Shuttle Endeavour. If you have not seen this up close, it's amazing. They have it located in it's own dedicated building with lot's of other interesting space items to view. The variety of different things to see and do is what surprised me the most about our visit. They even had an outdoor aquatic sea life area where you could touch sea anemone's, star fish, and so much more. They have a large sea life exhibit in a huge aquarium filled with interesting fish and an occasional diver swimming with all the fish as well! So much fun. This center really has so much to offer for the entire family! You need to go and plus it was FREE to get it. Donations gladly excepted.
Written March 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Angel C
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada16 contributions
On the website it says there are "family sized" storage lockers. Does anyone know if they are big enough to store a car seat? Thanks!
AlexWoo153uk
Taunton, UK284 contributions
I did not require storage locker for the visit. Sorry.
luisreyesa2003
Punta Arenas, Chile
Sabe alguien si para las peliculas IMAX del science center de los angeles tienen audifonos con traduccion al español.
brenda19640913
Los Angeles, CA29 contributions
No sólo en inglés
JCB9999
Los Angeles, CA
Are there electric wheelchairs to rent?
Kathy D
Saint Louis, MO371 contributions
Here is what the website says about wheelchairs:
"Standard manual wheelchairs are available for free at the Information Desk on a first-come, first-served basis for use inside the California Science Center.
"All spaces in the California Science Center are wheelchair accessible. All levels are accessible by elevator or stairs.
"Parking and Public Transportation
Accessible parking spaces are available on levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Science Center parking lot, entered from 39th Street and Figueroa. Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking is $12 per vehicle, cash only.
"The Science Center is about 0.2 miles across the beautiful Rose Garden from the Expo Park/USC Station Metro Line.
"Restrooms
All California Science Center restrooms are wheelchair accessible. Private family style restrooms are available upon request—please see any Guest Services Host.
"IMAX Shows
The IMAX Theater offers wheelchair accessible seating at the top of the theater. The theater has an elevator for your convenience. Seats are unassigned. Please speak to an IMAX Usher prior to your designated showtime to inform them of your accessibility needs.
LUIS
10 contributions
Se saca la entrada en taquilla o hay que sacarla por Internet. Es decir, hay entradas para el mismo dĂa??
samujose
Taranto, Italy393 contributions
Ma per accedere alla zona degli shuttle è necessario munirsi di biglietto?
John M
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia179 contributions
Hi there
I would like to visit the endeavour, and also will be joining some additional activities:
Flying club simulator
Endeavour Together Simulator
Can I know how long should I be spending there? I would like to plan my itinerary accordingly
Much thanks!
Leanne H
Regina, Canada167 contributions
You could easily spend a couple hours there exploring all the exhibits! Get your free tickets for endeavour for the first entrance and you’ll have the whole place to your self for a few minutes!
Nicole L
52 contributions
I see that the Science Center's hours are 10-5, but the last entrance times are at 5 pm...how does that work? Also, how long is the IMAX movie?
George Vreeland Hill
Beverly Hills, CA1,621 contributions
They close at 5:00 pm, so get there three hours at least ahead of time to see everything.
The IMAX movies last about an hour.
hfdad
Hoosick Falls, NY558 contributions
Is it necessary to buy imax tickets way ahead. I plan on visiting on a weekday when kids should be in school. Any problems buying the day I get there.
billpW1998QX
Oklahoma City, OK38 contributions
I would suggest booking ahead to make sure the time you want is available.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingCalifornia Science Center - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about California Science Center
- Hotels near California Science Center:
- (0.37 mi) USC Hotel
- (2.02 mi) AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles
- (2.02 mi) Moxy Downtown Los Angeles
- (2.26 mi) Downtown Los Angeles Proper
- (2.29 mi) The Hoxton, Downtown LA
- Restaurants near California Science Center:
- (0.26 mi) Figueroa Philly Cheesesteak
- (0.23 mi) Chipotle Mexican Grill
- (0.23 mi) Chick-fil-A
- (0.25 mi) The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- (0.24 mi) California Teriyaki Grill
- Attractions near California Science Center:
- (0.03 mi) Samuel Oschin Air & Space Center
- (0.12 mi) Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
- (0.10 mi) Exposition Park
- (0.16 mi) Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- (0.17 mi) California African American Museum