There’s a reason the California Science Center made our list of the all-time best science museums for kids—and it’s not just because general admission is free. It also happens to be the only LA museum where you can touch a starfish, see a chick hatch, catch a 3-D IMAX movie and board a space shuttle—all in one location. And starting Feb. 28, the museum will open its newest exhibit: The Art of the Brick. Read on for the details on the soon-to-arrive Lego extravaganza, plus find out about everything else the California Science Center has to offer.
Art of the Brick
Courtesy of Art of the Brick
See the world’s largest display of LEGO art in this special exhibit that CNN called “one of the top twelve must-see exhibitions in the world.” We’re talking a 20-foot T-Rex skeleton, life-size statues, 3-D recreations of iconic paintings and more. While admission to the California Science Center is free, this special exhibit is $19.75 for adults and $12.75 for children ages 4-12 (kids 3 and under are free). Get your tickets here.
Science of the Brick
Art of the Brick
Admission to Art of the Brick includes access to this awesome hands-on section, featuring nine LEGO brick-building challenges and activities for kids LEGO-loving grownups. Recreate a famous bridges and structures using bricks, build a mystery object inside a covered box using only your sense of touch and more!
Learn about all the wondrous things humans have invented with hands-on activities and experiments. Kids can try building a structure to withstand an earthquake and learn how a car turns on. Added bonus: Currently on display in Creative World: Science in Toyland, where little ones can spin tops, set up dominoes, build a mini roller coaster and more.
Air & Space
California Science Center
The highlight of this part of museum: the Space Shuttle Endeavour in the Samuel Oschin Pavillion. Here, little ones can not only get up close and personal with the shuttle itself, but also learn about the space shuttle program and see artifacts from its voyages. This part cost $3 per person and timed tickets are required.
Stop by this area of the museum to for the hatchery, where—if you're lucky—you might just see some newborn chicks. There's also a chance to see the world through the eyes of a bee, pump blood to the brain of a model giraffe and more.
The Ecosystems Gallery features 11 different environments, including a rainforest, a 188,000-gallon kelp tank filled with marine animals native to the Pacific, and a desert filled with live chuckwallas, tortoises and a flash flood every ten minutes. Be sure to venture outside where there's a touch tank with starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers and more.
Discovery Rooms
California Science Center
Keep an eye out for the Discovery Rooms specially designed for children Pre-K - 2nd grade with age-appropriate hands-on activities, books, and toys. You can find them in the Ecosystems, World and Life, and Creative World areas of the museum.
IMAX
SK Films
See a film projected on the museum's massive-story screen. The latest must-see 3-D movie? The award-winning Turtle Odyssey, following an Australian green sea turtle named Bunji and her incredible journey across the open ocean. Get all the details here.
Tickets purchase at the box office are $8.95 for adults; $6.75 for kids and include admission to Endeavor. Combine IMAX tickets with exhibition tickets for a special discount.
To help make your visit easy peasy, check the California Science Center website ahead of time to see if there are any alerts about events in Exposition Park that may impact parking or your experience. Parking cost $12 but if you’d rather skip parking all together, the Metro Expo Line. Expo Park/USC Station has a stop right in front of the Science Center.
Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cost: Free, special exhibits and films may have additional costs
In honor of Black History Month, we’ve rounded up all the ways to celebrate African-American culture and heritage in and round Los Angeles. From a visit the African American Firefighters Museum to a bike ride along Central Ave.’s historic jazz corridor, here’s how to educate and inspire kids during Black History Month.
Aquarium of the Pacific’s African-American Festival
Courtesy of the Aquarium of the Pacific
Make an entire day at the Aquarium of the Pacific’s 15th Annual African-American Festival. Feb. 22 and 23, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., the Aquarium will host an array of live performances, arts and crafts and great food. Performances will include Mardi Gras line dancer, break dancers, jazz musicians, West African dancers, drum circles and storytellers. Event details.
If you haven’t been to the California African American Museum, this month gives you all the more reason to go. Located in the heart of Exposition Park, CAAM is a hub of resources to explore the African-American diaspora in Los Angeles and beyond. This month, the museum's the exhibitions include Cross Colours: Black Fashion in the 20th Century and Making Mammy: A Caricature of Black Womanhood.
600 State Dr. Exposition Park 213-744-7432 Online: caamuseum.org
Still haven't been to the spectacular Watts Towers? This is the perfect opportunity to check out the iconic sculpture, constructed from broken dishes, bottles, tiles, pottery, rocks, seashells and more, items salvaged from the area by Simon Rodia in the early part of the 20th century. See the Towers and more of South Central's landmarks with CicLAvia's closed-street bike fest that takes you thought the historic Central Ave. Jazz District. Go by bike, skate or stroller and enjoy kid-friendly activities along the way. Event details.
The African-American Firefighter Museum, an ode to pioneering African-American firefighters, is a fascinating plaace for the entire family. It opened in 1997 as a dedication to the first 100 years of African-American firefighters in LA. AAFM is housed in the historic Fire Station 30 in South LA and boasts vintage firefighting gear and photos to get your fire engine fanatics excited. There are enthusiastic docents on hand who also happen to be Fire Department veterans who will provide the family with amazing info and a junior firefighter hat to boot. Upstairs contains more memorabilia and artifacts to commemorate this special history. This is a hidden gem that is not to be missed.
1401 South Central Ave. South Central LA 213-744-1730 Online: aaffmuseum.org
Founded in 1976 by artist and art historian Dr. Samella Lewis, this museum was opened to highlight and create awareness about African-American art. Since LA likes to mix high and low culture, this museum is tucked into the 3rd floor of the Macy’s at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza Mall. The museum has rotating exhibits in addition to the Palmer C. Hayden Collection that highlights the life of this leading artist of the Harlem Renaissance and the rest of the permanent collection that features work from the U.S., Africa, the Caribbean, South America and the South Pacific.
Shades of L.A. Collection, Los Angeles Public Library
Make your next beach trip a history lesson and visit what was once known as The Inkwell, located on the western end of Pico Blvd. and extending to Bicknell St. The name comes from a derogatory label used by white Angelenos during the Jim Crow era, when African-Americans came to this beach to avoid bigotry and create a space of their own. Today, the name and its origins represent a time in LA's history that should not be forgotten. In 2008, the City of Santa Monica officially recognized The Inkwell and Nick Gabaldon, the first documented African/Mexican-American surfer, with a landmark plaque at Bay St. and Oceanfront Walk.
Mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum
The Mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum was created to highlight African-American contributions to the world in all forms: history, sports, medicine, arts and entertainment, architecture and more. Clayton’s mission was simple and essential; she believed that “children should know that black people have done great things.” For over 40 years Clayton, a library and historian, collected manuscripts, films, and memorabilia that was eventually recovered by her eldest son Avery Clayton and relocated to its current location in Culver City. Bring the family to soak in the incredible story of Dr. Clayton and the stories that she dedicated her life to telling.
The library never fails us. The Los Angeles Public Library always make a point to commemorate Heritage Months and Feb. is full of events and learning opportunities. There will be a number of programs to celebrate the month including pre-school story times dedicated to African-American History, jazz and even learning about and playing drums. Yes, you can play drums in the library! The LAPL also has a great list of children’s non-fiction book about African-American history. Check their website for a full list of the month’s activities.
County of Los Angeles Public Library
If the family would like to dig into another great resource on African-American History Month, the Los Angeles County Library is another wonderful library system. Black History Month is sponsored by the Association for the Study of African-American Life and History, founded by Dr. Woodson. This year’s theme is “African Americans in Times of War”. This year there will be special story times, Black History month celebrations and even art workshops like African Tribal Mask making at various branches. Get the family together and learn more about the cause. Also, check the library website for more information and details about local events.
Why pay for a meal that your little one might only take a few bites of before declaring she’s full? Good news: You don’t have to. That’s right—from iconic diners to cozy Italian spots where you can enjoy a glass of vino, these LA restaurants invite kids to eat for free. And you can take home the leftovers. (All offers are subject to change so call first to make sure they’re still valid.) Read on for the details.
Pizza Studio This make-your-own-pizza joint offers fresh ingredients and deliciously crisp dough. Choose your cheese, meats, veggies and more, and your pie’s ready to eat in about 5 minutes. On Wednesdays, kids dine free with the order of a salad or pizza.
The Fields LA
When you find yourself hungry at Exposition Park (The California Science Center, Natural History Museum, California African American Museum or the Coliseum), head to The Fields LA—an indoor food hall located just behind these museums that offer must-eat grub from chicken and waffles to pizza (and everything in between. Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult order.
Insider Tip: Sit outside and let the kids play giant games of Jenga, Connect Four and ladder golf.
Nerano
Don’t have nonna to cook Sun. dinner? Then do the next best thing and head to this Italian restaurant in Beverly Hills for a family meal that will not only transport you to the old country, but kids under 10 also eat for free. So let them fill up on all the carbs while you take advantage of Spaghetti Sun. special where for $60, the adults can choose a spaghetti with any sauce of choice from the menu and a wine carafe for two. How do you say winning in Italian?
9960 S Santa Monica Blvd.
Beverly Hills
Online: nerano.com
Taste at the Palisades After a day building sandcastles and playing in the waves, hiking one of the trails or even exploring the Getty Villa with curious tykes in tow, treat yourself to some mouthwatering pizza (and a cocktail) nearby at Taste at the Palisades. With its cozy and sophisticated setting, you’ll deservedly take it up a notch from the standard kid-friendly fare. All day on Sun., kids can gobble up a free kid-sized pizza with each purchase of one full-sized pizza. Mangia!
Rush Street
If you find yourself on the westside, Culver City’s bustling Rush Street is a super fun dinner option for the whole family. Dad will love catching the Dodgers on the widescreen TVs, mom will dig the fab wine selection and everyone will like that kids (12 and under) eat free on Sun. and Mon. evenings from 5 p.m.-10 p.m. And with a great menu featuring everything from burgers and flatbreads to steak, fish, and pasta, you’re sure to find something that will make even the pickiest eaters happy.
Ikea
If you have a little home shopping to do, why not grab a little lunch while you wait for your new Swedish sofa? On Tues., get up to two kids’ meals for free with the purchase of one adult entrée. And while it may sound surprising, Ikea’s in-store restaurant serves up some truly great food. From chicken tenders and Swedish meatballs to braised beef, pasta, and even salmon, the whole family can devour a truly delish meal for next to nothing. Be sure to double check Ikea’s site for participating locations. And if you join Ikea’s free Family Membership, you’ll also enjoy free coffee or tea at the restaurant anytime you visit.
Café 50’s Delighting families on the Westside since 1982, Café 50’s is the perfect place to bring tykes for a bite. With a festive atmosphere, super friendly service and great food, you really can’t ask for anything better—except maybe free food on Wed! Every week, Café 50’s hosts “Pee-Wee Wednesdays,” where littles get a free meal from the under 10 menu with every adult entrée purchased. Café 50s also features fun specials on others days worth checking out. And then there’s the last “Wacky Wednesday” of every month when the whole family can eat for free from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. if they come in wearing two-piece button down pajamas and purchase beverages. Café 50’s also features free tableside magic from Magic Castle magicians during brunch on Sat. and Sun. from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
11623 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles
310-479-1955
Online: cafe50s.com
Norm’s
Norm’s has been a SoCal institution since 1949. With numerous locations around the city, families can easily grab a fab meal on the cheap. On Mon., littles (aged 10 and under) eat free from 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. from the kids’ menu with each adult entrée purchased. With the entire kids’ menu available any time of day, tots can even enjoy French toast and strawberry hotcakes for dinner, while good old chicken tenders and grilled cheese are always at the ready as well.
El Segundo Fish Company One fish, two fish, three fish, free fish! Pint-sized pescatarians will dig Wed. at El Segundo Fish Company when kids eat free with each order of a regular entrée. We’re talking generous helpings of popcorn shrimp and fish n’ chips that’ll make their hearts go pitter-patter. And parents can kick back and relax in a no-stress, casual atmosphere while dining on everything from sole and mahi-mahi to blackened wild ahi tuna tacos and beer.
210 E. Grand Ave.
El Segundo
310-648-7222
Online: esfishco.com
If you make your way through this list, here are a few other swell spots to check out:
Ruby’s Diner: Every Tues. evening is Family Night at Ruby’s where kids (aged 12 and under) eat for free with the purchase of an adult entrée.
Maria’s Italian Kitchen: Every Wed., enjoy a free kids’ meal with the purchase of an adult entrée. (Limit two kiddos per family, per check.)
La Serenata: From quesadillas and burritos to empanadas, this is one kids’ menu that has you covered for free all day Mon. with the purchase of an adult entrée and two drinks. Be sure to mention offer when ordering.
Denny’s: Kids eat free every Tuesday from 4p.m.-10p.m., making dinner easy-peasy.
Marie Callender’s: At select locations, kids eat free on Tuesday and Saturday. One kids’ meal per each adult entrée purchased.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: Every Sunday, free barbecue is the name of the game for kids (aged 12 and under). One free kids’ meal for each $10 adult purchase.
Steak ‘n Shake: All day on Saturay and Sunday, kiddos (aged 12 and under) get one free kids’ plate for every $9 you spend —dine-in only.
The Small Café: If you’re in Long Beach on a Wednesday, snag one free kids’ meal for each adult meal purchased.
El Torito: On Wednesdays, kids 12 & under eat free with the purchase of any adult entree.
To see what Red Tricycle Editors are up to this month, follow us on Instagram!
What do astronauts, butterflies, and electricity all have in common? Science! And these science museums for kids are some of the best in the bunch for hands-on learning in a stimulating and welcoming environment. So if you’ve got a budding explorer, geologist or doctor, heading out to one of these epic science museums can be a trip the whole family will never forget. Keep reading to see our favorites and see if your top museums made the list.
Bell Museum—Minneapolis, MN
Bell Museum and University of Minnesota
Located on the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus, the newly redesigned Bell Museum is back and better than ever. Gaze at the stars in the digital planetarium, step back in time to see a woolly mammoth and other wildlife dioramas, and learn about science through hands-on activities in the Touch & See Lab.
J.B. Spector/Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
Feed your kiddo’s curiosity with an unforgettable visit to the Museum of Science and Industry. See a real submarine (the only German sub in the US), descend a mine shaft to learn about coal mining, venture through a mirror maze to discover mathematical patterns and lots more. One thing’s for sure: you’ll never get bored at this Windy City gem.
5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL Online: msichicago.org
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University—Philadelphia, PA
Mike Servedio/ANS
Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is well worth a visit with your budding scientists. They’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with towering dinosaurs, meet live animals and explore a tropical garden filled with live butterflies. Don’t forget to visit The Big Dig to uncover fossils and see a legendary sea monster in the Mythic Creatures exhibit.
1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy Philadelphia, PA Online: ansp.org
Kids will love spending a day at the STEM wonderland that is Discovery Place Science. Let their imagination shine in the collaborative, anything-goes Think It Up exhibit, then discover exotic birds and tree-dwelling reptiles in Charlotte’s only urban rainforest. That’s only the beginning, though—they can also learn about human anatomy, engineering and physical phenomena in other hands-on exhibits.
It’s fitting that such a spectacular museum of technology is located right in the heart of Silicon Valley. You can get a glimpse of the tech world during your visit, as the exhibits cover everything from bioengineering to virtual reality to robotics. There’s also an exhibit that showcases how technology can be used to change our world for the better—it’s the perfect way to cap off your day at The Tech.
201 S. Market St. San Jose, CA Online: thetech.org
With 300,000 square feet of space containing 12 museum exhibition halls, 110 live animal species, a 3D theater, and the Western Hemisphere's biggest planetarium, it’s safe to say there’s plenty to do at Liberty Science Center. Just to scratch the surface, kids can crawl through an 80-foot tunnel to learn about sight, use bicycle pumps to produce sounds and scents and make pixel art on a giant wall installation.
222 Jersey City Blvd Jersey City, NJ Online: lsc.org
Montshire Museum of Science—Norwich, VT
Eva Dellinger
Located on a 100-acre site along the Connecticut River, the Montshire Museum of Science has more than 150 exhibits to explore. Discover the science behind musical instruments, test your problem-solving skills and build with larger-than-life blocks. If you visit in the warmer months, be sure to head outside to splash around in the Science Park’s water-based exhibits, or just take a walk on the scenic trails around the museum.
The Maryland Science Center is all about fostering a love of science in kids from an early age. With exhibits covering everything from Maryland’s famous blue crab to the cells that make up our bodies to Newton’s laws of physics, your little ones are bound to find something to fascinate them. Be sure to check out their events calendar for sing-along sessions, planetarium shows and more.
The mission of Carnegie Science Center is to connect science and technology with everyday life, and you’ll see what they mean the minute you step inside. The Ropes Challenge tests your sense of balance while teaching about mass and inertia; in H2Oh! you’ll learn about Pittsburgh’s rivers and why we need to conserve our water. Other exhibits let you become an astronaut for the day and learn how robots work—in short, it’s safe to say the kids will love this gem of a museum.
In addition to a two-story science center with lots of exhibits to explore, the Museum of Life and Science also has one of the largest butterfly conservatories on the East Coast along with outdoor exhibits that house rescued black bears, lemurs and endangered red wolves. Turn your dance moves into sounds on an interactive dance floor, build a contraption with pulleys and ramps and make your own stop-motion film. There’s also a play area that’s perfect for younger kids with lots of opportunities for creative play and movement.
An aquarium, planetarium and natural history museum all in one, the California Academy of Science is a must-visit for Bay Area locals and tourists alike. Take a stroll through the four-story rainforest, where you'll see free-flying birds, butterflies and loads of tropical flora. Kids can also touch urchins and starfish, check out a towering T. Rex skeleton and watch a coral reef dive. Get all the details on how to plan your day at Cal Academy by clicking here.
Golden Gate Park 55 Music Concourse Dr. San Francisco, CA Online: calacademy.org
Science Museum of Minnesota—St. Paul, MN
Science Museum of Minnesota
From the moment you walk in the door of this multi-story building located on a bluff above the Mississippi, the fun (and science) begins. Kids can amuse themselves with a massive pressurized ball display while you wait in line for the tickets. Once inside, project your image on a giant astronaut, catch an iMax show, explore dinosaur fossils, navigate the river and listen to the sounds of the earth’s many quakes on the seismophone—a spiny wind chime-like sculpture that projects notes based on a seismograph. Bring a few natural treasures from your travels to trade in the collectors' corner. Rotating exhibits and amazing summer camp programs that teach coding, scientific concepts and creative thinking make this a gem of the Midwest.
120 W. Kellogg Blvd. Saint Paul, MN Online: smm.org
Portland parents know the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a permanent fixture on the list of top activities before kids turn 10, but if even you're just visiting the area, this museum is well worth the trip. Want to know what a black hole really is? Or maybe you’d like to tour a real submarine? From physics to chemistry to space and beyond, your kids will learn new concepts and discover phenomena without even trying (there’s a 7,000-square-foot Science Playground!). Plus, its location along the Willamette River in Portland ain’t too shabby either.
When it comes to hands-on, the Exploratorium has been a leader in interactive museums for almost 50 years! Dubbed the museum of science, art and human perception, It’s like a big, sophisticated science fair where you get to touch, taste, dance around in and hop up and down on all of the experiments. The location right along San Francisco’s scenic waterfront can’t be beat. Ongoing special events like movies, free days and changing exhibitions make this a local’s favorite and one of SF's top tourist destinations. Check out our handy insider's guide to make the most of your visit.
Pier 15 The Embarcadero & Green St. San Francisco, CA 94111 Online: exploratorium.edu
At the base of the Wasatch Mountain Range rests the Natural History Museum of Utah’s Rio Tinto Center, part of the University of Utah and an active research center. Inside you’ll find fascinating fossils (dinosaurs!), bugs from six continents, and some 40,000 marine mollusca (a.k.a. seashells and the like). Among a full calendar of family and kid programming are STEAM-based Saturday Discover Classes targeted for Kindergarten and 1st graders, 2nd and 3rd graders, or 4th and 5th graders. All ages can bug out!
301 Wakara Way Salt Lake City, UT Online: nhmu.utah.edu
Whether you want—or wanted—to be an astronaut, everyone can have a shot at space glory at Buehler Challenger & Science Center. You can fly space missions in their simulator and learn about the Solar System in their StarLab planetarium. Public programs include a “Mini Mission” or “Full Mission” for grades 5 & up as well as Overnight Camp-Ins.
This not-for-profit museum’s current 320,000-square-foot home was designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki. Dedicated to understanding both the past and future progress, kids can explore the museum’s many areas that are both playful and educational. Access the Ocean through a “cave” that takes you through a crashed shipwreck and learn all about SCUBA diving, submarines, water pressure and more. The Space exhibit includes a replica space station, remote vehicles, and lots of hands-on experiments with gravity and more. There’s also an Adventure Area, a Gadget area (full of tinkering fun) and more.
The MOS mission is to help kids and grown-ups alike foster a love of technology and science without being intimidated and their approach has proved popular so far! Permanent exhibits include dinosaur fossils, a live animal care center, hands-on engineering play, math mysteries and much more. There’s also a beautiful butterfly garden and the Thrill Ride 360: a dynamic simulator that rocks, twists and turns as you ride a roller coaster or fly over Boston!
Part of the Smithsonian family, the Air & Space Museum houses the largest collection of historic air and spacecraft anywhere in the world. Want to know what happens to your body when you go up in space? Or maybe you're curious about the future of space travel? This is where you'll find all your questions answered! You'll also find Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, the Wright Brothers Plane, and the Apollo 11 command module. The museum hosts regular Family Days with themes like Space Day, African American Aviation History Day and more. New exhibits are always rotating through, and on select nights you can look through the telescopes at the Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory. Oh, and did we mention admission is free?
Independence Ave. at 6th St. SW Washington, DC Online: airandspace.si.edu
This unique museum combines science and the history of electricity to teach kids about concepts like brain waves, the body, magnetism, medicine and medical technology and—the best of the best—Frankenstein! Enjoy a 12-minute show that introduces kids to Mary Shelley, her monster and reanimation. There’s tons of STEM-based learning, including camps and special events. In addition, the museum is home to the Florence Bakken Medicinal Gardens and an impressive collection of medical instruments, scientific books, journals and manuscripts.
3537 Zenith Ave. S Minneapolis, MN Online: thebakken.org
With over 450 exhibits, events, workshops and more, this museum not only offers 100,000 square feet of indoor space, there’s 60,000 square feet of outdoor museum to explore, too. Parents in the know love this museum not just for their impressive collections and ongoing exhibits: the museum also offers drop-inLittle Makersclasses and an entire Preschool Place—a wonderland for the under-six set.
Where else can your kids see gems and diamonds from around the world, human and animal mummies, meteorites, animal dioramas and SUE, the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil ever discovered? The Field Museum is famous for a reason and it should definitely be on your museum (or any attraction) family bucket list. Check out these 13 current reasons we're crushing on The Field.
Among all the wonderful things to see and do at the PSC, one of the big highlights, especially for the under-five crowd, is the large saltwater tide pool where you can see and touch native Puget Sound creatures. Kids delight in the butterfly house too, and there's a big-screen IMAX showing the latest scientific wonder flicks. Ongoing and rotating exhibits will ignite their curiosity and foster a love of the earth and biological sciences. Be sure to check out our insider's guide to make sure your visit goes off without a hitch.
No trip to Arkansas is complete without a stop in Little Rock, but we think the Museum of Discovery is worth an entire day to itself. With cool one-off programs and a variety of ongoing events, no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find something new and spectacular. We love that they offer free admission to families living in shelters and campaign for girls in STEM to provide opportunities for all kids to learn, thrive, get curious and excel. Permanent exhibits include the Amazing You gallery with an inside peek at bodily functions; Discovery Hall, a mathematical wonderland; and the popular Tinkering Studio.
This science center dedicates itself to making science a fun, immersive and interactive experience for all ages. With everything from science music to classes to shows, a Life Science Lab and dedicated MakerSpace, hours will fly by here without even seeing it all. Plus, you can watch jaw-dropping films on the giant OMNIMAX screen. Looking for more St. Louis fun? Check out our family road trip guide here.
One of the Southwest’s premier science museums, don’t miss the high-wire physics of the Evans Family Sky Cycle, and the large community makerspace. There are 3D printers, laser cutters and more alongside crafting tools to sew, solder and paint. You’ll find plenty of earth and space science displays and interactive weather models, too. Their programs are tailored to different age groups, including day camps, junior workshops and overnights.
600 E. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ Online: azscience.org
This innovative museum offers a lot more than the (awesome) history of Benjamin Franklin, although its collection of Frankliniana, including marble busts, scientific instruments and writings, is well worth the visit alone. This museum boasts its own Escape Rooms, a planetarium, Live Science demos every day and exhibits on virtual and augmented reality (so you can see for yourself what all the fuss is about). This museum is as lively and spontaneous as Franklin's own experiments!
Located in Downtown’s Exposition Park, this is a science lover’s heaven. But even if your little one isn’t a future lab dweller, there’s plenty to get their minds working. The IMAX Theater is a big draw for older kids. The three Discovery Rooms are perfect destinations for the 6 & under crowd—they are filled with tons of hands-on experiences like a construction zone, a kitchen, a garden and even a kid-sized TV studio complete with costumes. Plus, there’s the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the fabulous Ecosystems exhibition where you can visit an icy land, go under the sea and even get grossed out in the rot room. Plus, keep an eye out for the special, limited exhibits that come to the museum, like the King Tut exhibit, open through Jan. 2019.
With a planetarium, impressive gem displays and the newly reopened Wiess Energy Hall 3.0 dedicated to the latest advancements in hydrocarbon energy, the Houston Museum of Natural Science has something for every kind of scientific curiosity. Learn about everything from mapping to insects to pruning trees—that is, if you can get the kids out of the incredible Cockrell Butterfly Center.
5555 Hermann Park Dr. Houston, TX Online: hmns.org
Mummies? Dinosaurs? Gems? Native American culture? The Denver Museum of Nature and Science will keep your kiddos enraptured for hours (and possibly days) with its extensive permanent collection and ongoing rotating exhibits. Kids can experience weekend workshops nearly every weekend and with occasional family overnights, you can go all Night at the Museum in real life.
Angelenos have access to many amazing landscapes: deserts, mountains and, of course, that beautiful Pacific coastline. While living in a coastal city may bring up thoughts of surfboards and boogie boarding, it also presents an opportunity for some great hands-on learning at local aquariums. Whether you feel like taking on a large scale adventure or a more intimate experience, there are so many ways to introduce your family to the wonders of the ocean. Scroll through to check out the top aquariums to visit in the L.A. area.
photo: LeTania Kirkland Smith
Aquarium of the Pacific
This is the Big Kahuna of aquariums in the L.A. area, and totally worth putting on your must-see list if you haven’t been yet. This aquarium houses over 11,000 animals! So whether the family wants to see fish, sea lions or penguins this museum has you covered. From the beautiful two-story tank that draws you in at the entrance to the smaller touch pools where your sea explorers can get hands-on with aquatic life, there is a lot to excited about.
In addition to the exhibits, the aquarium hosts family-friendly festivals open to the public, not to mention parent and me classes that explore specific animals or subjects through play and movement ($49 per parent/child combo).
You can also purchase access to Animal Encounters experiences ($109 per person) where you can get a behind the scenes, private tour of the aquarium and some of its most in-demand inhabitants, including the penguins, sea lions, and even the sharks for a feeding. If you’re not ready for that much commitment, purchase a basic “Behind-The-Scenes Tour” ($19 in addition to admission), which gives you access to sections of the aquarium not open to the public (guests must be 7 and up).
Housed in a building designed by the famed Frank Gehry, the CMA has been educating people about marine life since 1935 and boasts the largest collection of Southern California marine life in the world. This aquarium is smaller than Long Beach, which may mean a less overwhelming experience for the younger set. While there are fewer bells and whistles and more focus on education, there is no shortage of fun as interactive learning takes the forefront. There are teaching displays, microscopes and even a discovery room where the family can get marine smart while making art or joining a group lesson.
Be sure to take a look inside the “walk-in” aquarium where the kids can stand in a bubble in the middle of the tank for some thrills. “The Whale Graveyard” is also a must. It’s where everyone is invited to explore and, yes, even touch the bones of a giant whale.
Next to the aquarium, the Cabrillo Coastal Park has lots to explore, with a small botanical garden and salt marsh. Also be sure to check out the Point Fermin Tidepools along Cabrillo Beach, which is home to the famed grunion run—when these silver, sardine-like fish come to shore to mate. The aquarium opens at night Apr.-Jun. to allow visitors to see this nighttime spectacle. With all of this, The CMA only asks a suggested $5 donation for adults and $1 for kids. Talk about a win-win.
If you’re looking for another local experience, check out Heal The Bay Aquarium underneath the Santa Monica Pier. This aquarium houses over 100 species that call this bay home. From a meditative experience with the jellyfish to watching a simulated surge as fish rush in the “fast lane” this small, friendly space is sure to please.
Heal the Bay also has the much-loved touch pools if your littles want to get up close and personal. And if they aren’t into touching the animals, check out the Dorothy Green Room for an interactive exhibit where everyone will learn about our urban landscape and shore.
And if you really want a unique, up-close experience, make sure to plan your visit around feeding time when you can watch the staff feed the sea stars on Tues. and Fri. at 2:30 p.m. and the sharks on Sun. at 3:30 p.m.
Mini-marine explorers will enjoy visiting on Sat. when the aquarium hosts an ocean-themed story time. Another plus? You’re at the Santa Monica Pier so you can make an entire day of it complete with a beach visit and a Ferris wheel ride. What more can you ask for? Besides a vacuum for all of that sand on your car floors.
While most check out this museum for The Endeavor Space Shuttle and IMAX Theater, one of our favorites is the Ecosystems Exhibit, which features a giant kelp forest and small tanks to explore individual species. Be sure to walk through the aquarium hallway that will transport the littles to an underwater wonder.
Don’t forget to head upstairs where you can view the tank from overhead, experience the touch tanks and even talk to professional divers.
Try to make it in for Science Spectacular dive show, at 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. (11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekends), where kids can watch divers feed and interact with animals in the tank, and also take questions from little visitors while underwater!
A very cool and free aquarium located on the Manhattan Beach Pier, this space is undergoing a beautification project (scheduled to open this summer) but the temporary location at the base of the pier is still up and running.
A perfect location for the younger set, this is an easy and quick stop where you’ll see moray eels, rays, and octopi and get hands-on experience with starfish in the touch pools. There is also a small kids nook filled with books and crafty activities. The Roundhouse also has tide pool field classes for kids in first grade and up.
The L.A. Conservation Corps SEA Lab has been training and employing underserved young people ages 18-24 to lead education programs all over Southern California. This space, in Redondo Beach, is not a formal aquarium but a marine education center with touch pools, tours and lots of interactive learning opportunities.
With this kind of tradition, there are always helpful volunteers around to answer questions for your budding marine biologists. The SEA Lab hosts a public fish feeding Sat. at noon, where for $2, kids can help feed the fish in the tide-pool tank. And on the first Sat. of each month, the SEA Lab hosts Fishtivities with special concerts, games, and crafts. The space is $5 for adults and free for kids and is open Tues.-Fri. from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
If you are looking for some living, breathing sea-life action in the sun, then head to Malibu Lagoon State Beach (also known as Surfrider Beach). Check the tide tables before you go because when it is low, it provides a great opportunity to explore the amazing life right at our fingertips. Walk along the sand to explore shells, rocks, seaweed, birds and all the other goodies that come with the Pacific. It’s a good idea to wear water shoes for the slippery rocks. And even if you don’t get wet, it’s a great place to watch surfers in action.
Parking is $12 and includes a short walk to the water. You can also park for free along PCH, but the traffic you face when crossing can be daunting with little ones. And don’t forget you’re in Malibu, which is home to lots of great parks, food and, of course, more beaches.
If you grew up wishing you could be a tomb-raiding archeologist like Indiana Jones, now you can share your childhood dreams with your own kids. Learn all about the mysteries of the world’s most famous boy king and his treasures at the new King Tut exhibit at the California Science Center.
photo: Shahrzad Warkentin
The Pharoah’s Golden Treasure
It’s been 100 years since King Tut’s tomb was first discovered, but there’s nothing old about this magical new exhibit. Of the over 150 artifacts on display, 60 pieces have never traveled outside of Egypt before, so even if you were lucky enough to see some of the pharaoh’s treasure at previous exhibitions there’s plenty of new things to see. The exhibit, KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh, is also the final world tour for Tutankhamun’s artifacts, so you’ll never get to see this experience, this close to home, again. The remains will make their way back to Egypt where they will be permanently housed at the New Grand Gyptian Museum in Cairo.
photo: Shahrzad Warkentin
The Exhibit: Part One
The exhibit begins on the third floor. Even with the timed entry, expect to wait in line for a few minutes in order to enter the first room. This is a good chance to discuss with inquisitive kids, like who was King Tut and what’s a mummy? Parenting Pro Tip: Brush up on your trivia before you arrive. Once you enter the exhibit, there is a 6-minute movie about the discovery of Tutankhamun and the history of this amazing discovery.
photo: Shahrzad Warkentin
With a little more knowledge, head into the larger of the two exhibit halls. As you wind your way through the dim gallery, glinting gold artifacts discovered in the tomb, like small and large statues, jewels, intricately detailed boxes, weapons, and more will delight eyes young and old. The centerpiece that will take your little explorer’s breath away though is a model of King Tut’s body covered in the golden ornamentation that dressed his mummified body.
photo: Shahrzad Warkentin
The Exhibit: Part Two
Before you enter the second gallery, you can stop for a photo to commemorate the occasion. Thanks to the green screen you’ll get a family picture with King Tut to take home for $15. Inside the second half of the exhibit, you’ll learn more about the history of tomb exploration and how King Tut’s final resting place was discovered after years of searching.
photo: Shahrzad Warkentin
Don’t miss the science lesson of how they used technology to learn more about Tutankhamun’s life and cause of death. Little STEM-lovers will get a kick out of seeing a real mummy’s x-ray. The final awe-inspiring stop on your tour is at the foot of a towering statue that once stood at the entrance of his tomb. At the end of the exhibit, there is a special gift shop filled with Tut-themed souvenirs that you won’t find in the regular museum shop.
photo: Shahrzad Warkentin
Know Before You Go
King Tut is currently the hottest ticket in town and selling out daily. If you don’t want miss out, purchase your timed entry tickets well in advance of the date you plan to go. While the golden artifacts are sure to wow all that visit no matter what age, we recommend this exhibit for kids 5 and up to get the most out of the experience.
Older kids will especially benefit from the audio tour (which can also be pre-purchased in advance) and will give them a better understanding of each item.
No food or drinks are allowed in the exhibit or re-entry, so fuel up on snacks before you head in. Double-strollers are also not allowed inside the exhibit, but if you can, leave the stroller at home as the galleries get very crowded and are hard to navigate throughout the museum.
KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh is open now through Jan. 6, 2019.
Cost: $29.95 for adults; $19.50 for kids 4-12. A $2 service fee is applied per ticket.
Parking at the California Science Center is $12 or take the metro which stops right in front of the museum.
That plastic backyard tub isn’t cutting it. You didn’t pony up the mega bucks to belong to a private swim club this summer. But you really gotta cool off! So we rounded up the best pools that are all clean, have amazing kid features and don’t require memberships. From Glendale to Santa Clarita, these are our favorite places to take the plunge.
Santa Clarita Aquatics Center
What’s better than a great pool? Three! The Aquatic Center has a 50 meter competition pool, a 25 meter dive pool and an activity pool complete with water play goodies and a 160 foot water slide. The facility also provides concessions and locker/changing rooms on the landscaped and lighted grounds. With plenty of parking and ample deck space for lounging around, the Aquatic Center has something for everyone, and is worth a drive for the day even if it’s not your local splash spot. The shallow end is shallow enough to let the little kids play without life jackets, and it gradually deepens to the roped off deep end that has two life guards for more proficient swimmers. Keep an eye out for extra events like Dive In movie nights ($10 per person).
Cost: $4 kids and $6 for adults (free for kids under 3)
John C. Aruge Expo Center
Right behind the Coliseum is a giant swim stadium with both a competition pool and a shallow wading pool that is easy to navigate with toddlers. We love that you can spend the morning at the California Science Center or Natural History Museum, picnic in the Rose Garden and then splash and swim all afternoon. Note that kids 4 & under are required to wear a swim diaper and kids 6 & under are required to have an adult (one adult per child) with them at all times.
Santa Monica Swim Center
This clean and welcoming facility does get a little crowded in the summer time because it’s such a great spot to swim. The Santa Monica Swim Center has two heated outdoor pools: one is reserved for classes and lap swim, which means the other is open season for your little fish. There are also several diving boards for your slightly bigger fish. Be sure to check out the pool’s monthly Family Days. The hours for recreational swim shift with the seasons so check the website for updated scheduling information. There are discounted fees for Santa Monica residents, so be sure to bring proof of residency, if that applies.
Another great Santa Monica pool is the Stoner Park Pool, which you can learn more about on our list of great splash pads.
Cost: For Santa Monica residents it’s $1.50 for kids and $3.50 for adults; for non-residents the rates are doubled. Family and 20-visit passes are also available.
Culver City Plunge at Veterans’ Park
This beloved by locals 40,000 square-foot spot boasts both an Olympic size pool, a heated competition pool, and even a diving board, for kids that can pass the swim test and are at least 4 feet tall (those under must be accompanied in the pool by and adult at all times). For all day fun, it’s conveniently located next to a park with a playground, baseball field and basketball courts.
San Fernando Regional Pool
Since the SFV is where you really need to keep cool in the summer, it’s lucky that they have this amazing 3-acre venue. It’s two great pools; one specifically for kids with slides and water fountains. There’s a shade structure and grassy spots for when you need a water break. It has two pools. You can also watch the water polo and synchronized swim teams practice!
Westwood Community Pool
This heated indoor pool is small and impeccably clean. They offer great family swim hours and are open year round. With plenty of elbow room and a wide splash zone, it’s a great spot to expose your first time swimmers to the water. The hours do change seasonally, so check the website for updated information. We love Family Nights on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7-9 p.m., where parents who work can still get in a weekday swim with the kids on these long summer nights.
Rustic Canyon Pool
Nestled in the middle of the beautiful Rustic Canyon Park, this pool is a little-known gem. Small and well maintained, it is unheated and only open during the summer. A picnic in the park, a dip in the pool, and hike in the woods makes for a perfect summer afternoon. Check website for an up-to-date schedule.
Pacific Community Pool
Our favorite things about this pool is the amazing shallow end, which is big enough for plenty of not-ready-for-the-Olympics swimmers and the lifeguards. What is it about Glendale, that they have the nicest lifeguards? Also fabulous, is that nearby you have a playground and library, should you want to make a day of it. And if you want to extend that day to night, you’re right near Golden Road Brewery, the single most kid friendly spot to grab a beer in town. Cheers to summer beers! Recreation swim hours are typically in the afternoon, but check the website the day you plan to go, as they can change.
Cost: It’s $.50 for kids and $3 for adults; you can also buy 15-visit ($6-$36) or unlimited visit ($20-$75) passes for the summer.
Hubert H. Humphrey Pool
It’s always hot in the valley, and the Hubert H. Humphrey pool is adjacent to the park with a children’s play area, picnic tables and basketball courts, so you’ll always be ready to dive in here. Plus the pool is open year round, and there’s a water slide! Check the website for summer hours.
Rosebowl Aquatics Open year round, the Rosebowl Aquatics is a beautiful facility. With family swim evenings and summer camps there is much more to do here than just taking a splash. Kids love to watch the divers and water polo teams practice or play at the fantastic pirate themed park right behind the pools when they’re tired of swimming. The hours for recreational and family swim change seasonally, so check the website for a current schedule. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adults in the pool with a 1:1 ratio, so don’t plan on bringing a carload of new swimmers here solo!
Annenberg Community Beach House
The Beach House pool is one of the few remaining features from the original Marion Davies estate. Your family is sure to soak up some sunshine and old Hollywood glamor at this beautiful beach side spot. Those under 8 must be accompanied in the water by an adult at all times, so if you are hoping to lounge poolside like a 1920’s starlet, bring along another grownup. Hours change seasonally, and passes sell out quickly, so check out the website for advance passes and reservations (you can even reserve a parking spot) before planning your visit. You can also get food by the pool, play on the playground, stroll the beach and splash in the pad. (These are the cleanest public pool bathrooms we’ve yet to see, and that alone lands it on our list!) Note that this pool has no shallow end, so it’s not a spot where tiny tots can splash and play alone.
Cost: $4 per kid, $10 per adult. Parking is $12 for the day. Mondays in the summer are Half Off Admission days and no reservations are available.
Insider’s Tip: All Los Angeles County pools require that an adult accompany any kids under 7 on a one-to-one ratio, so be sure to grab one grown-up per munchkin. Also, many city run pools offer a discount with a city library card, so double check your pockets before heading out. Most LA County pools are open by June 10, 2017; all are open by June 17. Call for hours and open dates at your local pool!
You won’t have to dig too hard to find Jurassic sized fun for your little dino lovers all over Los Angeles. With two new exhibits this summer, in addition to some old faves, you can hunt for fossils, ride a T-Rex and find dinosaurs at playgrounds, museums and even the zoo.
photo: Andrea Conway Kagey
Natural History Museum
Every dedicated dino expert knows that the Natural History Museum Great Hall of Dinosaurs is the place to visit to dig up all of the facts on these prehistoric wonders. The 14,000 square foot renovated Dinosaur Hall at the NHM brings paleontology alive by displaying completed skeletons and fossils of dinosaurs from all over the world, representing each period of dinosaur life. When you’re done studying up on the life cycle of the T-Rex, take your super-silly-sauruses to Level 2 where they can watch real life paleontologists prepare actual fossils in the Dino Lab. If interactive is more your thing, check out the Dinosaur Encounter show (times vary; this summer you can catch it Thursday, Saturday & Sunday several times a day) that uses large-scale puppets to bring the T-Rex and Triceratops to life, capturing the imagination of any die-hard dino-fan. All of these dino-tastic attractions are part of the permanent exhibits at NHM and included in admission.
But wait, there’s more! Starting July 3, your kiddos curiosities will soar upon meeting the incredibly diverse winged reptiles of the Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs exhibit. This prehistoric attraction will be visiting NHM until October 2, 2016 and will include rare fossils from all over the world in addition to life-size models, videos and interactive exhibits of the earth’s first flighted bird. Tickets to the NHM are $12 for adults and $5 for kids over 2. To visit the temporary Pterosaurs exhibit with a timed ticket entrance, expect to spend a little bit more with a $22/adult, $10/child ticket that covers both the Pterosaurs and general Museum entrance. Make sure to check the website before visiting for information on parking, which can be tricky on USC football game days.
900 Exposition Boulevard
Exposition Park
213-763-3466
Online: nhm.org
photo: Andrea Conway Kagey
Dinosaurs: Unextinct at the LA Zoo
Lions, tigers and dinosaurs? Oh my! Go back in time with the LA Zoo to a lost world when dinosaurs roamed the earth. For the price of Zoo admission ($15-$20) plus an additional $5 a person you can visit “Unextinct at the LA Zoo.” This Dino event brings animatronic dinosaurs to life, displaying them in their natural habitat among a lush landscape of the earliest trees and plants. Stand in awe in the middle of these life-sized replicas of an array of dinosaurs, ranging in heights up to almost 22 feet and 6,700 pounds!
If the awe inspiring size of these giganto-sauruses isn’t enough for your super dino fans, the exhibit also offers a Fossil Dig where they can brush away sand to uncover “bones” made from a fiberglass mold of an actual dinosaur fossil. Get your cameras ready for the many Jurassic-sized photo ops and try your hand at walking the dinosaur with the Stegosaurus robot that you can control. Make sure to download the free “Dinosaurs: Alive at the LA Zoo” augmented reality app and complete the quiz to win a prize at the Dino gift shop. Don’t wait too long to partake in this colossal adventure; the Stone Age scene is extinct as of November 1.
5333 Zoo Dr.
Griffith Park
323-644-4200
Online: lazoo.org/dinos
Wonder of Dinosaurs
Sure you can study them and dig for them, but what if you just want to play? You can play in and with the dinosaurs at this Redondo Beach self-guided exhibit that combines animatronic dinosaurs with inflatable bouncers, mazes, mini-golf and more. For the next 2 years, you can visit this family friendly exhibit within the South Bay Galleria. Also available for parties, this wonder-filled exhibit even has robotic dinosaur rides. Appropriate for ages 2 & up, your pack will enjoy watching the moving and static dinosaurs as well as getting out their own roars and giggles in the inflatable dino-themed bouncers (don’t forget those socks). There’s even prehistoric fun to be had by mom and dad in the inflatable dino maze and mini-golf game.
Most activities are included in admission prices ($8-$16) but face painting, dino photo-op and fossil and gem bags cost extra. Only infant strollers are allowed on the floor and all other strollers can be parked in designated areas. If you’re planning to visit this lost world of fun, please note that prices are slightly higher on weekends. All kids permanently dependent on wheelchairs are admitted for free and Wonder of Dinosaurs donates part of proceeds to a California charity dedicated to the needs of disabled children.
Fossil Reef Park
Sometimes you just want to play and play and play. A weekend jaunt to Laguna is as good as a trip back in time. Jurassic imaginations will be sparked with endless inspiration at this Laguna Hills Prehistoric Playground. Fossil Reef Park is a paleo-adventure playground that reflects the historical significance of the area. Your junior dino-digger will be enthralled with the playground bridge that has imprints of actual fossils over 15 million years old. Under the bridge, a replica of a Hadrosaur fossil is embedded into the bridge wall, along with fossil pieces of a saber toothed cat, duck-billed dinosaur and mammoths. With a bowhead whale skeleton to climb and two separate play structures to explore, Fossil Reef Park is guaranteed to keep your tiny T-Rex busy. This multi-level playground can make it difficult to keep track of the youngest of your crew on a busy day but there is a separate toddler area within the playground and lots of green for running and picnicking. If your toddler tires when walking on those little legs, pack the stroller for this adventure as the parking can be a bit far.
Then when they’re all tuckered out, you get to enjoy exploring and eating in beautiful Laguna Beach.
The “Dinosaurs of Santa Monica”
If you want to stay closer to home and get a glimpse of the dinos in their natural habitat (shopping?), play a casual game of “eye spy a dinosaur” with your pint-size paleontologists as you walk the streets of Santa Monica. A free public art display at the 3rd Street Promenade, the “Dinosaurs of Santa Monica” are made up of six stainless steel and copper topiary fountains that bring a prehistoric charm to the modern day restaurants and shops. Look for these prehistoric finds on Third Street between Broadway Avenue and Wilshire Blvd. It’s a fun side adventure after a day at the beach, a shopping or movie outing on the Promenade or as part of a train trip to the sea.
Cabazon Dinosaurs
Next time you head to the desert, you definitely need to stop and meet these guys. (You may recognize the famous dinosaurs from Pee Wee’s Big Adventure.) The Cabazon Dinosaurs have been a staple along I-10 since the early 1960’s when Dinny (pronounced Dine-y), the 150 ft. long Apatosaurus, was built to attract patrons to the now permanently closed Wheel Restaurant. In 1981 Mr. Rex, the 3 story T-Rex, joined him. Visitors are free to climb atop Dinny to a cute, kitschy gift shop but to get inside the mouth of the towering T-Rex you have to enter through the museum side which has an admission fee: $10 for adults and $9 for kids ages 3 & up.
photo: Andrea Conway Kagey
When you’re done snapping pics atop Mr. Rex’s big toes, follow the signs behind the giant dinos to the Creationist Museum in the back where dinosaurs and wild animals cohabit peacefully among desert plants. This museum boasts a couple of animatronic rides with gentle movements for timid tots, but at $2 a ride in addition to the admission fee, you may want to proceed straight through to the “fossil dig” sand pit and “gem stone” panning activity which are included with admission. Strollers are welcomed on the dino paths but be aware of the lack of shade and sandy trails.
Little hearts flutter with glee when they come across butterflies. These beautiful insects strike kids (and parents) like tiny fairies or delicate flowers with wings. National Butterfly Day is March 14, and to help you find these magical critters close to home we’ve rounded up some prime spots for informative and intimate butterfly encounters, from Downtown to Legoland-adjacent and Pasadena to Pismo Beach.
photo: Natural History Museum
Butterfly Pavilion at National History Museum We’ll start our tour closest to home.This popular place offers a gratifying glimpse into the magical micro cosmos of butterflies, including their ecosystem and plant life necessary for food and survival. Maybe you get lucky and one of the more than 30 different butterfly and moth species will land on you. The scientists from the Natural History Museum are stationed throughout the giant tent and are happy to answer any and all questions. This seasonal exhibit is opens April 12 through Labor Day, and tickets to step inside this little world are an additional fee to NHM entrance and are timed so it’s never too crowded.
NHM citizen scientists and gardening experts are opening the new Monarch Waystation this year, where visitors can see every milestone and metamorphosis in a Monarch’s life. They’ll teach you how to create your own waystation at home, too.
900 Exposition Blvd.
Exposition Park 213-763-3466
Online: nhm.org
Butterfly Farms Kids of all ages learn about the fragile world of butterflies, their life cycle and the threats to their habitats via a tour of the vivarium and grounds. The Farms’ five acres offer a thriving home of pollinator hosts and nectar plants so that butterflies, Monarchs especially, won’t lose their world. They actually raise native butterflies here, and will help you pick out plants at the adjoining nursery to recreate a butterfly haven at home. Butterfly Farms is open Monday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and tours are available for a $5 donation.
Butterfly Pavilion at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
Hundreds of butterflies call this spot home during spring and summer. Admirers of all ages can check out the winged beauties along with caterpillars, even witnessing them pupate into chrysalises and emerge. This hands-on educational experience culminates in the Butterfly Release Party on August 7 where each family may escort a butterfly out of the pavilion and into the Garden. The Pavilion is open daily starting May 7 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and tickets are $3 in addition to Garden admission. While you’re visiting, be sure to check out all that the beautiful town of Claremont has to offer; it’s a perfect daytrip from LA for families. Read our guide to getting the most out of this charming college town.
1500 N College Ave.
Claremont 909-625-8767
Online: rsabg.org
Monarch Butterfly Grove
Can your wee ones count to three yet? How about 1,000? Here’s your chance to see thousands of butterflies (25,000 at times) in one place. Monarchs actually migrate to this place during their life cycles—the largest Monarch Butterfly Grove in the state. Docents are available for talks, as are telescopes to better spot the insects chilling in clusters in Eucalyptus trees. Look closely. At first glance, the butterfly tree clusters look like dead leaves. Hurry, while there are still butterflies hanging around. They’re here in the largest numbers between November and February or early March.
Butterfly Release at Kidspace Children’s Museum During their annual butterfly release in their garden, Kidspace launches between 500 and 1,000 winged beauties into the wild of Pasadena and beyond. Besides watching the Painted Lady butterflies escape into nature, activities include art and crafts, shows, face painting and more. Caterpillar adoption kits are available April 3-May 22, and you can raise your own butterfly at home and bring them back for the grand release, which is a spectacular sight. Stay tuned for the 2016 festival date!
Butterfly Garden at the South Coast Botanic Garden The favorite spot of the under-8-crowd at the beautiful 87-acre horticultural and wildlife habitat is the Children’s Discovery Garden with its worm bin, secret tunnel and butterfly garden. During special events and classes, kids learn about the life cycle of the butterfly, take pics and make a craft. And if you visit before May 8, you can also check out a butterfly not usually found in nature: the giant one pictured above and made of LEGOS, from the Nature Connects: Art with LEGO® Bricks exhibit by artist Sean Kenney, which is made up of amazing statues throughout the gardens. The garden is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and tickets are $4-$9, with kids under 5 free.
Got a little Major Tom who can’t hear enough about space travel and Mars visits? Run (or float in your portable zero gravity chamber) to the new in-depth look at what it’s really like to be among the stars. The California Science Center has just opened the brand new Journey To Space Exhibition and 3D film, so your mini moon-walker can get up close and personal with the Final Frontier.
photo: The California Science Center
The Atmosphere
The entire exhibit mimics outer space, with a very dark interior lit by bright star-like lights above. It’s bright enough to see & enjoy everything, but definitely gives off the vibe that you’re walking in the night-time sky. Kids will love all there is to see—and touch! Little explorers get a hands-on, climb-aboard experience of what it’s like to live and work in space. The exhibition examines the extraordinary environment of space, including the very real dangers astronauts face during their mission above Earth. Kids will learn about the vacuum of space, radiation, meteoroids, and temperature extremes, while getting a look at all the ways that humans take on the challenge of exploring such an inhospitable location. Read on for our list of can’t miss activities to plan your visit around.
photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan
A Rocket Launcher
Kids can spend all day here; you may have to drag them away! They get a chance to launch their very own rocket, complete with a voice giving them the count down. Don’t be surprised if you hear echoes of “Three, Two, One, BLAST OFF!” from the backseat while you drive home.
photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan
The Destiny Lab
This lab looks like it came straight out of a sci-fi movie set. Kids of all ages (even strollers are allowed) can enter a full-scale replica of the Destiny Lab, the primary research facility for the U.S. International Space Station. You’ll experience the sights, sounds, and smells on board an orbiting lab: yep, the entire lab rotates around you, so although you’re standing still, it gives you the illusion of spinning. It can cause dizziness and/or nausea for some (so skip the carne asada breakfast burrito beforehand), but that’s helped by closing your eyes and holding on to the railing. While you spin, you get a virtual tour from astronauts who have worked there. Thankfully, you’ll only be topsy-turvy for four minutes, and your kids will get a kick out of seeing all the futuristic things inside the lab (Robo-nauts!).
photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan
A Play Space Station
Even kids who aren’t planning to go all Matt Damon and be the next Martian will go wild for a miniature version of a real space station. It’s like a dollhouse, except that it’s a replica of where astronauts live and work in space. Your kids get to play with the soft astronaut dolls (girls will love the female astronauts, who each have ponytails), and move them around the space station areas. There are even tiny space helmets to complete the look. Your tyke might have their mini astronaut tend to the garden lab to grow plants, or work on an injured astronaut in the medic station. There are domino-style pieces to represent medicine, tools, microscopes and more. Kids get really into as they take turns commanding the ship or warding off a pretend alien attack. Step back and enjoy watching as groups of kids instantly form a space team and play together.
photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan
In addition to all the fun hands-on activities, there are also several huge screens around the exhibit, showing incredible footage, from an aerial view of the Northern lights from Wisconsin to the East Coast, to astronauts doing backwards somersaults as they float in mid-air. Kids will also enjoy seeing Neil Armstrong’s gloves, a real space helmet, and an animated video on why astronauts are weightless in space.
photo: Elena Wurlitzer Fenegan
The Journey to Space 3D Film
It’s a short walk from the exhibit to the IMAX theater across the outside courtyard, where you and your little ones will enjoy the mighty experience of IMAX in 3D. Grab a popcorn and a slushie (or other snacks) at the concession, and get your 3D glasses (kid sizes available—and are super cute), and settle into the comfy chairs. The screen takes over the entire wall, so this experience may be a bit intense for tiny tots. The film is narrated by Patrick Stewart (bonus for moms with a crush on Captain Picard), and includes extensive interviews with NASA astronauts.
What’s great about the film (and the exhibit, too) is how many female astronauts are represented, so both little girls and boys will be equally inspired. Through visually stunning imagery, the film showcases the exciting plans NASA has, such as a human mission to Mars, which is in the planning stages. Kids will especially love seeing astronauts train 60 feet underwater (mini subs!), as well as a 45 foot tall inflatable space habitat (that may remind kids of a blown-up Baymax). The movie is probably best for kids age 5 & up, and is engaging enough to entertain while educating your wee ones on all that NASA is capable of. With a run-time of 45 minutes, it’s a nice break off from being on your feet, and a good length to make sure little legs don’t get restless.
Wanna make a whole day of it?
The California Science Center is big, with plenty to see. Aside from special exhibits like this, it’s completely free to get in. Your kids will have plenty to see and do, so you can easily spend the entire day there. Oh, and don’t worry about lugging snacks from home—there’s a coffee bar to keep you going, and the Trimana Grill & Market will take care of even the hungriest of space explorers. Newly renovated and located inside the building, you’ll find yummy selections for picky and healthy eaters (from tossed salads, soups and healthy wraps to French fries, chicken tenders and hot dogs). With all the sights and interactive adventures, a day spent here is sure to be out of this world.
Liftoff at the California Science Center is October 29th, 2015. The exhibit runs through May 8th, 2016. The exhibit is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily and entrance is $9.75 for adults and $6.25 for kids. You can get a combo ticket for the exhibit plus the 3D IMAX film for $16.75 for adults and $13.50 for kids. You can buy tickets online to reserve an entry date & time.
