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

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Reviews of California Science Center

4.2
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
37
5 - Excellent 57%
4 - Good
14
4 - Good 22%
3 - Okay
8
3 - Okay 12%
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2 - Disappointing 3%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 6%

5/5 - Excellent

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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
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, Los Angeles

The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, Los Angeles

4 out of 5
404 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, Los Angeles
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
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
citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

4 out of 5
361 South Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA
citizenM Los Angeles Downtown
Freehand Los Angeles

Freehand Los Angeles

4 out of 5
416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA
Freehand Los Angeles
STILE Downtown Los Angeles by Kasa

STILE Downtown Los Angeles by Kasa

4 out of 5
929 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
STILE Downtown Los Angeles by Kasa
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 offers a variety of engaging activities and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. Explore fascinating exhibits, including major attractions like the Space Shuttle Endeavour, and enjoy hands-on learning opportunities that make science fun. Nearby, you can also find sports venues, vibrant entertainment options, and a thriving art scene, making it a perfect destination for a well-rounded day in Los Angeles.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options include Grand Central Market, just 3 miles away, offering a vibrant mix of local vendors. The Grove, located 6 miles away, features a variety of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, visit Hollywood and Vine, also 6 miles from the center.

Recreation

Crypto.com Arena, 2 miles away, offers an energetic atmosphere with thrilling sports events. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 3 miles distant, captivates with its stunning architecture and vibrant music performances. For a peaceful retreat, visit Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, located 4 miles away, where you can unwind in nature's embrace.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at the Porsche Experience Center, located 11 miles from California Science Center. For outdoor enthusiasts, the California Aqueduct Bikeway offers scenic biking trails just 4 miles away. Additionally, Hangar 18 Climbing Gym provides an exciting climbing experience, situated 9 miles from the center.

Nightlife

At night, the Peacock Theater offers a romantic atmosphere with cultural performances just 2 miles away. The TCL Chinese Theatre, 7 miles distant, showcases captivating films, while Griffith Observatory, also 7 miles away, provides an entertaining view of the cosmos, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near California Science Center

When visiting the California Science Center in Los Angeles, don't miss the chance to explore nearby urban parks, entertainment arenas, and other museums that enhance your cultural and family experience. Engage with local attractions and enjoy hands-on exhibits at this renowned science museum, making it a perfect spot for both education and fun. Additional local points of interest ensure a memorable visit to this vibrant area.

  • University of Southern California: Located only 0.3 miles from the California Science Center, USC offers a vibrant campus atmosphere filled with modern architecture. Explore its beautiful grounds, engage with students, and soak in the rich academic culture.
  • Los Angeles Convention Center: Situated 2 miles away, this bustling event space is known for its impressive exhibitions and conferences. The business vibe here is palpable, making it a hub for networking and innovation.
  • L.A. Live: Also 2 miles from the Science Center, L.A. Live is a lively entertainment district perfect for families. Enjoy outdoor concerts, dining options, and various attractions that create a fun-filled atmosphere for 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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
May65.3°F (18.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June69.8°F (21.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July74.3°F (23.5°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August75.7°F (24.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainSunnyModerately LowAverage
October69.6°F (20.9°C)No RainSunnyModerately LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyModerately 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 trip to the California Science Center, consider visiting between November and January, as these months typically offer lower accommodation prices. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Utilize Expedia to find the best deals by filtering for budget-friendly and eco-certified hotels. Take advantage of package deals that combine flights and hotel stays for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Lastly, explore free activities around the 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • 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 deal.
  • 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.

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