California Science Center Tours and Activities

California Science Center featuring aircraft
California Science Center featuring interior views and aircraft as well as children
California Science Center
California Science Center featuring aircraft and interior views
California Science Center showing 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

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel

Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel

2.5 out of 5
West Athens
per person
Oct 14 - Oct 20
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Edmonton (YEG) to Los Angeles (LAX)
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,501 reviews)
Clean, safe, nice rooms and comfy bed. What I didn’t like is that you have to pay extra for parking ($12/day) and the sliding door at the bathroom has huge gaps that offer no privacy. Overall, I recommend this hotel, we had a great experience.

Reviewed on Aug. 5, 2025

SIRTAJ - Beverly Hills

SIRTAJ - Beverly Hills

4 out of 5
per person
Oct 26 - Oct 31
found 6 hours ago
Roundtrip flight included
Edmonton (YEG) to Los Angeles (LAX)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
It was Beverly Hills… just hard to navigate and a bit underwhelming as far as the hotel is concerned. The parking was a bit odd too.

Reviewed on Jul. 31, 2025

LA Crystal Hotel - Los Angeles Area

LA Crystal Hotel - Los Angeles Area

3 out of 5
Rancho Dominguez
per person
Sep 18 - Sep 25
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Vancouver (YVR) to Los Angeles (LAX)
8/10 Very Good! (1,009 reviews)
Everything was almost perfect. Flexible with check in, rooms were clean, amenities were good. Only that bathroom door knob was broken.

Reviewed on Jul. 26, 2025

Tours & day trips

See all 231 activities
Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More!

Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More!

Activity duration is 7 hours and 30 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 331 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $136 per adult
Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches & More!Opens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 59 activities
30min Driving Tour: Explore Hollywood Sign in Ferrari

30min Driving Tour: Explore Hollywood Sign in Ferrari

Activity duration is 30 minutes
8.6 out of 10 with 13 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $205 per adult*
30min Driving Tour: Explore Hollywood Sign in FerrariOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 37 activities
Mandir and Temple Tour

Mandir and Temple Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $206 per adult
Mandir and Temple TourOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 22 activities
Hard Rock Cafe on Hollywood Boulevard

Hard Rock Cafe on Hollywood Boulevard

Activity duration is 2 hours
6.0 out of 10 with 5 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $54 per traveller
Hard Rock Cafe on Hollywood BoulevardOpens in new tab

Attractions

See all 12 activities
Los Angeles: Petersen Automotive Museum Admission Ticket

Los Angeles: Petersen Automotive Museum Admission Ticket

9.4 out of 10 with 20 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $29 per adult
Los Angeles: Petersen Automotive Museum Admission TicketOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

Rose Garden

Rose Garden

Find out about the history of Los Angeles with a stop at Rose Garden. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Rose Garden
Exposition Park

Exposition Park

With sports arenas, a science center, a rose garden and a museum devoted to African American history, this downtown space welcomes visitors of all ages.

Exposition Park
California African American Museum

California African American Museum

African American history is told through a range of 19th-century artifacts, historical documents and art exhibits in this remarkable museum.

California African American Museum
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

4/5(52 reviews)

Known as the Greatest Stadium in the World, this arena hosts football games and commemorates those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces in World War I.

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
University of Southern California

University of Southern California

4/5(84 reviews)

Walk around the campus of University of Southern California, a top college in Los Angeles. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

University of Southern California

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
citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

4 out of 5
361 South Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA
citizenM Los Angeles Downtown
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
Affordable Stay America

Affordable Stay America

1 out of 5
601 W 49th Street, Los Angeles, CA
Affordable Stay America
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
Biltmore Los Angeles

Biltmore Los Angeles

4 out of 5
506 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Biltmore Los Angeles
Freehand Los Angeles

Freehand Los Angeles

4 out of 5
416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA
Freehand Los Angeles
AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles, a Marriott Hotel

AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles, a Marriott Hotel

4 out of 5
1260 SOUTH FIGUEROA STREET, BUILDING B, Los Angeles, CA
AC Hotel Downtown Los Angeles, a Marriott Hotel
See all 7,393 properties in California Science Center
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 for visitors, including guided tours and free museum tours that allow you to explore its fascinating attractions. Enjoy educational exhibits and interactive displays, making it an ideal destination for both sports enthusiasts and theatre lovers seeking entertainment in Los Angeles. Dive into the science of fun and discovery while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable venue.

Shopping

Discover the vibrant Grand Central Market, only 4.8km from the California Science Center, offering a variety of local food vendors. The Last Bookstore, also 4.8km away, is perfect for book lovers. If you're up for a drive, The Grove, located 9.7km away, features a delightful mix of shopping and entertainment.

Recreation

Crypto.com Arena, located 3.2km from the California Science Center, offers an energetic atmosphere with thrilling sports events. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 4.8km away, is a hub of musical entertainment. For a tranquil escape, visit Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, 6.4km away, perfect for relaxation and wellness.

Adventure

The Porsche Experience Center offers thrilling motor racing experiences, located 17.7km from the California Science Center, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the California Aqueduct Bikeway, 6.4km away, provides scenic cycling routes, while Hangar 18 Climbing Gym, 14.5km away, caters to climbing enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting atmosphere at the Peacock Theater, just 3.2km away, offering culture and family entertainment. For a lively night, visit the Broadway Theater District, 4.8km out, featuring romantic films. If you're feeling lucky, head to Hollywood Park Casino, 9.7km away, for thrilling games and city vibes.

Find the best attractions near California Science Center

While visiting the California Science Center in Los Angeles, you can explore a variety of attractions including an entertainment arena, urban parks, and art museums. These points of interest offer a blend of culture and family experiences, making it an ideal destination for travellers. Don't miss the chance to delve into the science exhibits at the California Science Center, which is renowned for its engaging displays and educational opportunities.

  • University of Southern California: A vibrant campus filled with stunning architecture and rich history, it offers a lively atmosphere with city vibes. You can explore its beautiful grounds, art installations, and cultural events that highlight the spirit of innovation.
  • Los Angeles Convention Center: A hub for business and events, this venue hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions. With its modern facilities, it embodies a professional atmosphere that showcases the dynamic business culture of Los Angeles.
  • Kia Forum: Known for its entertainment offerings, this arena hosts concerts and family-friendly events, providing a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying live performances and making unforgettable memories with loved ones.

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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighAverage
May65.3°F (18.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June69.8°F (21.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July74.3°F (23.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August75.7°F (24.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September75.0°F (23.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowAverage
October69.6°F (20.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for California Science Center

When visiting the California Science Center, save money by exploring nearby free attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica Beach. Plan your trip during the cheaper months of November to January, and consider staying on a Monday for the best hotel rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by filtering for eco-certified hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities. This way, you'll enjoy a memorable visit while keeping costs down.

  • 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel category; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the California Science Center with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.