Los Angeles: La Brea Tar Pits Museum Ticket

If you’ve ever been curious about the creatures that roamed Los Angeles thousands of years ago, visiting the La Brea Tar Pits Museum is a treat. While we haven’t personally wandered through its exhibits (we’re reviewing based on a wealth of traveler insights), this experience promises an eye-opening glimpse into the past, right in the city’s heart. From fossils of mammoths and saber-toothed cats to active excavations, it’s an educational outing that manages to be both fascinating and surprisingly fun.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to see over a million Ice Age fossils all in one place. Second, the active dig sites where you can observe scientists at work, uncovering new discoveries. Lastly, the bubbling tar pits and detailed exhibits make history feel alive. That said, the $18 ticket price is very reasonable, but keep in mind that parking fees are extra, and some special shows or 3D films cost additional. This experience is best suited for history buffs, families, and anyone with a curiosity for prehistoric life.

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Key Points

Affordable admission at $18 offers excellent value for an educational and memorable experience.
Active excavation sites provide a rare glimpse into ongoing paleontological work.
Well-curated exhibits display fossil skeletons of iconic Ice Age animals.
Engaging guided areas and fossil labs enhance understanding through real-time fossil cleaning.
Location in LA’s urban setting makes it accessible and easy to combine with nearby attractions.
Reviews praise knowledgeable guides and the museum’s beautifully maintained displays.

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An In-Depth Look at the La Brea Tar Pits Museum Experience

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Location and Accessibility

Situated at 5801 Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, the Page Museum at La Brea Tar Pits is easy to reach, whether you’re staying downtown or near other LA attractions. The site features a parking lot, although an additional fee applies—something to consider if you’re planning a full day of sightseeing. The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with holidays sometimes closed, so checking ahead is wise.

Entry and Ticketing

A ticket costing $18 per person grants you access to the museum, Pit 91, the Pleistocene Gardens, and the atrium. One advantage of booking online is the flexibility—you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and if plans change, cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance. Keep in mind that online tickets purchased through third-party agencies cannot be applied toward museum memberships.

What’s Included?

Your ticket secures entry into the museum, a visit to Pit 91, the outdoor Pleistocene Gardens, and the enclosed atrium. These areas are thoughtfully designed to give you a comprehensive view of both the fossils and the environment of the Ice Age. The excavator tour is included with general admission but requires reservations, which are limited and not guaranteed unless booked upon arrival.

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Exhibits and Highlights

Once inside, you’ll find a curated collection of fossils—more than a million—of animals like mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and more. The museum does a fantastic job of showcasing these finds in a way that feels accessible yet scientifically accurate. Visitors really appreciate how the fossils are cleaned and studied in the Fossil Lab, which you can observe in real time—a chance to see science in action.

Numerous reviews, such as Ed’s, mention how knowledgeable volunteers and staff make the experience even more engaging. One visitor appreciated the “fantastic view of the Pleistocene era,” emphasizing how well the exhibits convey the period’s significance.

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Active Excavation and Observation

A unique aspect of this site is that the tar pits are still bubbling—not just a pretty sight but a reminder that this is an active excavation site. You can see excavators at work and learn what fossils have been uncovered today. Many travelers, like John N, describe their visit as “marvelous” and highlight how seeing fossils in the process of being uncovered adds an extra layer of excitement.

Exhibits for All Ages

Whether you’re a science nerd or just someone looking for a fun outing, the museum caters to a broad audience. Kids love the giant skeletons, and adults appreciate the detailed information and the chance to learn how animals got trapped and preserved here. The Pleistocene Gardens offer a peaceful outdoor space with plants from the era, perfect for a quick stroll.

Additional Experiences and Add-Ons

For those wanting to go further, add-on shows like the Ice Age Encounters or a 3D film are available for extra fees, though these are not included in the basic ticket. Some reviews suggest that the outdoor experience, especially the fossil excavation, is the real highlight. The guided tours are limited and fill up quickly, so plan to reserve if you want a more structured experience.

What Travelers Say: Insights from the Reviews

Several reviewers mention the value of the guides and staff. For example, one noted that the guides were “very engaging and knowledgeable,” enhancing the educational aspect. Others appreciated how well-maintained and informative the exhibits are, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

Many reviews mention how small but packed the museum is—despite its size, it offers a wealth of information. Visitors often comment that it’s a great outing for families, especially considering the outdoor fossil pits and the chance to see real fossils being cleaned and studied.

Some travelers pointed out the potential limitations—for example, that the museum is more geared toward children, and that most attractions are outside, so it’s best visited in good weather. One reviewer expressed that they might have skipped the 3D show if they had known it was extra, but overall, most agree that it’s an excellent value.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially if you want to secure a spot for the excavator tour.
Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor walking at the pits and gardens.
Check parking fees beforehand, as onsite parking costs extra.
Consider bringing lunch or snacks; the outdoor spaces are perfect for picnicking.
If you want to see the fossil cleaning process or participate in special tours, reserve upon arrival because spaces are limited.
The museum is especially enjoyable for families, students, and anyone interested in prehistoric creatures.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Visiting?

This tour offers a solid value for those interested in seeing real fossils and understanding the Ice Age. The active excavation sites and fossils in the lab are what set this experience apart from typical museums. For just $18, you gain access to a fascinating slice of prehistory in an urban setting, making it a convenient yet educational stop in Los Angeles.

Travelers who love learning about ancient animals and enjoy outdoor exhibits will find a lot to love here. The knowledgeable staff and well-curated displays make it an engaging visit for all ages, especially families or history enthusiasts.

However, if you’re expecting a large, sprawling museum or a high-tech experience, keep in mind that this is more of an intimate, outdoor-focused site with a focus on ongoing discoveries. It’s ideal for those who appreciate seeing science happen live and who enjoy a blend of education and outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there parking available at the La Brea Tar Pits Museum?
Yes, there is a parking lot onsite, but an additional fee applies. It’s convenient but plan ahead for the extra cost.

Can I visit the active dig sites?
Yes, the site includes active excavation areas, and visitors can sometimes see fossil excavators working on site.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket grants access to the museum, Pit 91, the Pleistocene Gardens, and the atrium. Guided excavator tours are included but require reservations upon arrival.

Are there any extra costs for shows or films?
Yes, the Ice Age Encounters show and 3D films are available for purchase at the museum. These are not included in the basic admission.

What are the museum’s hours?
It’s open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Holiday closures can occur, so it’s wise to check ahead.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids enjoy the skeleton displays, outdoor fossil pits, and hands-on learning. Many reviews highlight its family-friendly appeal.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking online in advance is recommended to secure your preferred time and to take advantage of flexible cancellation options.

To sum it up, the La Brea Tar Pits Museum offers a captivating peek into the Ice Age, blending outdoor fossil exploration with engaging indoor exhibits. Its affordability, active dig sites, and knowledgeable staff make it an excellent choice for those interested in prehistoric animals, paleontology, or just seeking a different kind of Los Angeles outing. Suitable for families, students, and science buffs alike, it’s a museum that turns history into a lively, tangible experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: