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Visit La Brea Tar Pits Museum: Make Your Adventure Unforgettable!

Plan your visit to La Brea Tar Pits and Museum and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of prehistoric Los Angeles. Whether you’re exploring the iconic tar pits, discovering fossils, or experiencing the museum’s engaging exhibits, this page will provide all the essential details you need for a seamless and enjoyable visit.

Best Time To Visit La Brea Tar Pits

For a comfortable and engaging experience, consider visiting during the cooler months, such as late fall or early spring. During these times, the outdoor exhibits and tar pits are more enjoyable, and the museum tends to be less crowded. Additionally, weekdays, especially mornings, offer a quieter atmosphere, allowing you to explore the exhibits and grounds at your own pace.

Regular Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Closed: The museum is closed on the first Tuesday of every month, as well as on Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Free Admission Hours: Los Angeles County residents can enjoy free museum admission Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Please note that free admission does not include access to the 3D theater or Encounters Show.

How to Get to La Brea Tar Pits?

By Car
By Public Transit
Walking

The museum's parking lot is located at the corner of Curson Avenue and 6th Street, directly behind the museum. Payment for this lot can be made with credit card only. Enter from the western side of Curson Avenue.

Souvenir Shop and Restaurant at La Brea Tar Pits

Tar Pits Store

Located in the center of the Museum behind the Information counter, offering a variety of souvenirs and gifts, including t-shirts, books, and toys. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Nearby Dining

Explore a range of restaurants and food trucks offering outdoor dining or take-out options on Wilshire Blvd. and the surrounding area. Consider grabbing your favorite cuisine and having a picnic in Hancock Park.

Special Events at La Brea Tar Pits

Summer Nights at the Tar Pits: Enjoy free museum admission, live music, food trucks, and a bar in a relaxed evening setting.
PST ART + Science Family Festival A free festival featuring hands-on science activities, fossil exploration, and more.

Facilities at La Brea Tar Pits

Accessibility The museum is fully accessible, with ramps and elevators available for visitors with mobility challenges.
Restrooms Equipped with family-friendly and accessible restrooms.

Tips for Visiting La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

Choose Weekdays or Early Mornings: Visiting on weekday mornings, especially shortly after opening at 9:30 am, typically ensures a quieter experience with fewer visitors, allowing more intimate time to explore the tar pits and museum exhibits.

Start with the Outdoor Tar Pits and Excavation Sites: Begin by walking through Hancock Park to see the natural asphalt pools, bubbling methane gas, and active excavation areas like Pit 91. This outdoor introduction enhances understanding before entering the museum galleries.

Make Use of Available Audio Guides and Resources: The museum offers audio guides and interpretive materials that provide detailed context, enriching the visitor experience by sharing stories behind the fossils and ongoing research.

Allocate Two to Three Hours for a Thorough Visit: To fully appreciate both the outdoor features and the George C. Page Museum collections, plan for at least two to three hours. This allows time for wandering the park, observing active dig sites, and exploring fossil exhibits.

Book Tickets in Advance: Purchasing tickets before your visit, including options for guided tours or VIP experiences if available, helps secure entry and avoid potential wait times, especially during peak season.

Security Screening at Entry: Visitors should be ready for standard security checks upon arrival, which help maintain a safe environment while ensuring that personal belongings conform to site policies.

Dress for Outdoor Exploration: Since much of the site includes outdoor walkways, wear comfortable shoes and check the weather forecast. Sunscreen, hats, and hydration are advisable during warm seasons, as well as layers for cooler days.

Observe Respectful Conduct Around Fossil Sites and Exhibits: Maintain a considerate attitude by refraining from touching fossils or excavation equipment. Follow posted guidelines to protect these irreplaceable scientific resources and respect other visitors' experience.

Photography Guidelines: Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but flash and tripods may be prohibited to protect delicate displays. Look for signage and adhere to rules to preserve the integrity of the exhibits and research sites.

FAQs

How long does it take to visit La Brea Tar Pits and Museum?

A typical visit to La Brea Tar Pits and Museum lasts about 2 to 3 hours. This timeframe allows guests to explore the tar pits, view ongoing excavation sites like Pit 91 and Project 23, walk through the park grounds, and tour the George C. Page Museum exhibits.

What is the best time or day to visit La Brea Tar Pits to avoid crowds?

The best times to visit are during weekday mornings soon after the 9:30 am opening, as these periods tend to be less busy. Avoid weekends and midday hours when the site is more popular with local and international tourists.

Is there a suggested itinerary for visiting La Brea Tar Pits and Museum?

Visitors are encouraged to begin by walking the pedestrian trail around Lake Pit to observe bubbling asphalt and life-size prehistoric animal models. Next, view active excavations at Pit 91 or Project 23. Finally, spend time inside the George C. Page Museum to examine extensive fossil exhibits and learn about ongoing research.

Are guided tours available at La Brea Tar Pits, and what are their benefits?

Guided tours are typically offered and provide an insightful overview of the site’s history, paleontological significance, and fossil discoveries. Joining a guided tour enriches the visit by allowing direct interaction with knowledgeable paleontologists and museum educators.

How can visitors purchase tickets for La Brea Tar Pits and Museum?

Tickets can be purchased online in advance through our website. Advance booking is recommended to secure preferred time slots and to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What parking options are available near La Brea Tar Pits, and are there associated fees?

Parking is accessible at nearby lots within Hancock Park and the surrounding Miracle Mile District. Visitors should check the venue’s parking and directions page for detailed locations and current fee information, as availability and prices can vary.