California Science Center Tours

California Science Center featuring aircraft
California Science Center featuring aircraft and interior views as well as children
California Science Center featuring interior views and marine life
California Science Center showing aircraft and interior views
California Science Center featuring interior views

Discover an aquarium with a giant kelp forest, an actual space shuttle and numerous educational displays and exhibits inside this remarkable facility.

The California Science Center is one of the United States’ foremost museums. Watch a film on the center’s giant seven-story IMAX cinema screen. See historic spacecraft, including the Space Shuttle Endeavour and several planetary probes.

The center features a tropical rainforest, teeming with wildlife. Watch a star show in the renowned planetarium. The California Science Center also hosts the annual California State Science Fair, typically held in May each year.

Admire the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the fifth and final operational space shuttle built. The Endeavour first launched in 1992 and was retired in 2012. Study this important piece of space exploration history and watch an educational film about the shuttle in the center’s IMAX cinema.

See other aspects of human and robotic space travel in the permanent Air & Space exhibit. Learn about the information gathered from telescopes on the ground and orbiting in space.

Marvel at the center’s giant kelp forest, a wonderful ecosystem typical of natural surroundings supporting over 800 wildlife species. This amazing underwater forest hosts leopard sharks, moray eels, rays, spiny lobsters, rockfish and more. Learn about kelp and other organisms inside this ecosystem.

See how earthquake-resistant buildings and solar cars work in the Creative World ongoing exhibit, which showcases feats in human innovation and creativity. Discover how technology influences transportation with interactive displays.

Check the official website for information on upcoming special exhibits, events, live shows and educational demonstrations. Find the California Science Center within Exposition Park, which features a number of other attractions, including the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the California African American Museum and the Exposition Park Rose Garden.

The center is located about 14 miles (23 kilometers) from Los Angeles International Airport. The center’s permanent galleries are free to view however, the IMAX theater and special exhibits charge admission fees.

The California Science Center is filled with unique scientific artifacts and many opportunities to learn about these fascinating items.

Plan a trip to see California Science Center

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
SIRTAJ - Beverly Hills

SIRTAJ - Beverly Hills

4 out of 5
per person
Nov 6 - Nov 10
found 8 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Denver (DEN) to Los Angeles (LAX)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
Clean hotel with great service. The only downsides to this property is that the $150 deposit wasn’t disclosed until after I already booked and prepaid for the room & the parking is $40 a night (in a garage that’s across the street). Other than that, this is a great place to spend a night or two.

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2025

Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts

5 out of 5
Wilshire Montana
per person
Oct 19 - Oct 22
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Denver (DEN) to Los Angeles (LAX)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (461 reviews)
My only complaints are: There was what appeared to be some sort of vomit or maybe food on the rug in our room. The rugs/carpet in general could use a cleaning or replacing. The pool could be open a bit longer. It closes at sunset. They also need a blender to make blended drinks! The staff is amazing. They are polite, professional, friendly, and eager to make your stay as comfortable as possible. From the concierge, valet, kitchen staff, and cleaning crew to the bartender and spa staff. They truly make your stay top notch. The rooms are beautiful and spacious. The resort is very close to the ocean, though the photos are a bit misleading since they make it look like you just go out the door onto the beach. It’s about a mile walk to get there. The massage therapist was amazing. They bring everything to your room and tailor the massage to your preferences. The deep tissue massage was exactly what I needed. I would definitely stay again!

Reviewed on Jul 6, 2025

Desert Isle of Palm Springs

Desert Isle of Palm Springs

2.5 out of 5
Araby
per person
Oct 18 - Oct 25
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Dallas (DFW) to Los Angeles (LAX)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (319 reviews)
I like there was parking without a fee. There were 2 full bathroom in a one bedroom condo. The place felt big and it has the amenities you need.

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore California Science Center

Tours & day trips

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Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More!

Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More!

Activity duration is 7 hours and 30 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 331 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $99 per adult
Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More!Opens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 60 activities
30min Driving Tour: Explore Hollywood Sign in Ferrari

30min Driving Tour: Explore Hollywood Sign in Ferrari

Activity duration is 30 minutes
8.6 out of 10 with 13 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $149 per adult*
30min Driving Tour: Explore Hollywood Sign in FerrariOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 35 activities
Mandir and Temple Tour

Mandir and Temple Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $150 per adult
Mandir and Temple TourOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 22 activities
Hard Rock Cafe on Hollywood Boulevard

Hard Rock Cafe on Hollywood Boulevard

Activity duration is 2 hours
6.0 out of 10 with 5 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $39 per traveler
Hard Rock Cafe on Hollywood BoulevardOpens in new tab

Attractions

See all 12 activities
Disneyland® Resort Tickets

Disneyland® Resort Tickets

Activity duration is 1 day
8.6 out of 10 with 1676 reviews
Price is $109 per adult
Disneyland® Resort TicketsOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

Rose Garden

Rose Garden

Find out about the history of Los Angeles with a stop at Rose Garden. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Rose Garden
Exposition Park

Exposition Park

With sports arenas, a science center, a rose garden and a museum devoted to African American history, this downtown space welcomes visitors of all ages.

Exposition Park
California African American Museum showing signage, wildflowers and a park

California African American Museum

African American history is told through a range of 19th-century artifacts, historical documents and art exhibits in this remarkable museum.

California African American Museum
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Known as the Greatest Stadium in the World, this arena hosts football games and commemorates those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces in World War I.

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

One of the largest natural and historical museums in the western United States has a large mammal exhibit and a fun and interactive dinosaur display.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Quite a nice dome here, although the centerpiece prohibits a true Pantheon effect.

University of Southern California

Walk around the campus of University of Southern California, a top college in Los Angeles. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

University of Southern California

Best Lodging Options Near California Science Center

USC Hotel

USC Hotel

3.5 out of 5
3540 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA
USC Hotel
Forty First Place - Boutique Hostel

Forty First Place - Boutique Hostel

2 out of 5
615 W 41st Pl, Los Angeles, CA
Forty First Place - Boutique Hostel
citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

4 out of 5
361 South Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA
citizenM Los Angeles Downtown
E-Central Downtown Los Angeles Hotel

E-Central Downtown Los Angeles Hotel

4 out of 5
1020 S Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA
E-Central Downtown Los Angeles Hotel
Affordable Stay America

Affordable Stay America

1 out of 5
601 W 49th Street, Los Angeles, CA
Affordable Stay America
Moxy Downtown Los Angeles

Moxy Downtown Los Angeles

4 out of 5
1260 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA
Moxy Downtown Los Angeles
Urban Retreat USC

Urban Retreat USC

2 out of 5
1431 West 37th Street, Los Angeles, CA
Urban Retreat USC
Biltmore Los Angeles

Biltmore Los Angeles

4 out of 5
506 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Biltmore Los Angeles
Freehand Los Angeles

Freehand Los Angeles

4 out of 5
416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA
Freehand Los Angeles
See all 7,350 properties in California Science Center
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near California Science Center

The California Science Center in Los Angeles offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Nearby, you can enjoy theme parks, catch a game on game day, and participate in summer camps. Additionally, Labor Day festivities provide a chance to experience local entertainment and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the area. Whether you're interested in sports, theater, or simply exploring, there's something for everyone at this exciting destination.

Shopping

The Grand Central Market offers a vibrant atmosphere with local vendors just 3 miles away, perfect for unique gifts. The Last Bookstore, also 3 miles away, is a must-visit for book lovers. If you're up for a drive, The Grove, located 6 miles away, combines shopping with entertainment.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena, just 2 miles away, perfect for catching a live sports event. Enjoy a musical evening at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, located 3 miles from the center. For relaxation, visit Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, 4 miles away, ideal for tranquility and outdoor activities.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at the Porsche Experience Center, where you can test drive high-performance vehicles 11 miles from the California Science Center. For outdoor fun, explore the California Aqueduct Bikeway, located 4 miles away, or challenge yourself at Hangar 18 Climbing Gym Southbay, 9 miles away, featuring exciting climbing routes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near California Science Center by catching a show at Peacock Theater, just 2 miles away, or stargaze at Griffith Observatory, 7 miles away. For a romantic movie night, visit TCL Chinese Theatre, also 7 miles away, offering a blend of family-friendly fun and entertainment.

Find the best attractions near California Science Center

Whether you're a culture buff, a family traveler, or just looking for fun, the California Science Center in Los Angeles offers a range of attractions. You can explore the science museum, enjoy the urban park surroundings, and visit nearby entertainment venues. With its focus on science and education, the California Science Center is a perfect destination for anyone eager to learn and experience something new in the heart of LA.

  • University of Southern California: A vibrant modern campus located 0.3 miles from the California Science Center, USC offers a rich blend of academic excellence and city energy. Stroll through its beautiful grounds and experience the lively atmosphere of one of the nation’s leading universities.
  • Los Angeles Convention Center: Situated 2 miles away, this state-of-the-art venue hosts a wide array of events and conventions. With its sleek architecture and business-centric vibe, it’s perfect for networking and exploring the latest innovations in various fields.
  • Kia Forum: Located 5 miles from the California Science Center, this entertainment arena is a hub for concerts and family-friendly events. Experience thrilling performances and create lasting memories in a lively atmosphere that caters to all ages.

Best time to go to California Science Center

The best time to visit California Science Center can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around California Science Center falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around California Science Center falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
March59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
April62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighAverage
May65.3°F (18.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June69.8°F (21.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July74.3°F (23.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August75.7°F (24.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September75.0°F (23.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowAverage
October69.6°F (20.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for California Science Center

To save money on your visit to the California Science Center, plan your trip from November to January, when hotel prices are lower. Book accommodations for Monday, the least expensive day, and avoid Saturdays. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels and consider package deals that bundle flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and rewards. Lastly, explore free activities around the Science Center to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around California Science Center are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around California Science Center is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around California Science Center is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you customize your travel experience by choosing your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type. For instance, if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the California Science Center with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.