If you are looking for a fun place where you can interact with
the exhibits, you need to take some time to visit the California Science
Center. It’s a place the whole family will love. Before we get into what you
can see and do there, let’s take a look at the history of this amazing
building.
Located in Exposition Park in Los Angeles, the science center was first
established back in 1951 as the California Museum of Science and Industry.
The name change took place back in 1998, but plans to make the center
something a lot more special began 5 years before that. It was in 1993 that a
three-part transformation and upgrade was put into motion, with the first
phase including the addition of the massive IMAX Theater that is now one of
the most popular spots in the center. Phase II was more about the
infrastructure, with parking added and some aesthetically pleasing changes
made to the gardens and exterior of the building. The third and final phase –
World’s Beyond – is still in the planning process.
Each of the exhibits are broken down into individual galleries, all of which
present the information in an educational way, but also in a style that is
fun and totally interactive. Best of all, the permanent exhibits in the
California Science Center are always free to visit, although you will have to
pay for parking, as well as for tickets to special exhibits and the IMAX
Theater. One of the biggest exhibits, in more ways than one, is the Space Shuttle
Endeavor, which is currently on display to the public. This is one that you
will need to call ahead and make a reservation for, as it is incredibly
popular and always very busy.
There are a number of special exhibits that travel into the science center
for small periods of time. The majority of these are put together by other
museums across the country. These change out regularly, which means there is
always something new and exciting to see every time you visit. In fact, if
you live in L.A. or the surrounding area, you might consider becoming a
member so you can see all of the traveling exhibits for one low price.
There really is something fun for everyone in the family at the California
Science Center. The center is open from 10am to 5pm every day, excluding
holidays, which means you have plenty of time to go and take in the sights.
You can visit their website or call them at (323) 724-3623 for more information. Why
settle for a stuffy old museum where all the exhibits are stored behind glass
cases when you can take a trip to the California Science Center and have a
real hands-on experience?
