Los Angeles with kids
The Best Los Angeles Museums for Kids, by Age and Interest
Los Angeles has world-class museums for kids, and several are free. The big news for 2026: the Space Shuttle Endeavour's new home opens in November, while the La Brea Tar Pits museum has closed for a long renovation.
Here they are by interest and age, with what to see first. Check each official website for hours and timed reservations.
Quick picks
- Space and planes: the California Science Center (Space Shuttle Endeavour, free admission).
- Dinosaurs: the Natural History Museum's Dinosaur Hall.
- Stars and views: Griffith Observatory (free).
- Under 11, hands-on: Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena.
- Cars: the Petersen Automotive Museum.
- Art with a view: the Getty Center (free).
The big ones
- California Science Center (Exposition Park): free general admission. From November 13, 2026, the new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center shows Endeavour standing upright with its real rockets and fuel tank. Official site
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (Exposition Park, next door): the Dinosaur Hall, gems and minerals, and a nature garden. Tickets
- Griffith Observatory (Griffith Park): free exhibits, huge city views and free public telescopes on clear evenings; planetarium shows are paid. Official site
- The Getty Center (Brentwood): free admission to the art, gardens and views, with a little tram up the hill; parking is paid. Official site
For younger kids and specialists
- Kidspace Children's Museum (Pasadena): mostly outdoor, hands-on play for kids about 11 and under, with water, climbing and building. Official site
- Petersen Automotive Museum (Miracle Mile): famous cars from films and racing, with family workshops. Official site
- La Brea Tar Pits (Hancock Park): the museum building is closed until about 2028 for renovation, but the outdoor tar pits and excavation sites stay open and free.
Tips
- Pair museums by area: the Science Center and Natural History Museum are side by side in Exposition Park; the Petersen and the Tar Pits are neighbours on Wilshire.
- Book free timed tickets where needed, especially on weekends.
- Go early, and plan a picnic or playground break.
Questions
What is the best museum in Los Angeles for kids?
The California Science Center: free admission, hands-on exhibits and, from November 13, 2026, the Space Shuttle Endeavour standing upright. The Natural History Museum next door is the pick for dinosaur fans.
Is the La Brea Tar Pits museum open?
The museum building closed in July 2026 for a renovation of about two years; the outdoor tar pits and excavation sites in the park remain open.
Which LA museums are free for kids?
The California Science Center, Griffith Observatory and the Getty Center are free (parking may be paid).