Take the kids to the La Brea Tar Pits

Plan Your Visit

Plan Ahead: Ticket lines can be long, so consider purchasing your ticket online before you arrive.

Understanding the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

The Outdoor Tar Pits vs The Museum

What's the difference between the outdoor tar pits and the museum inside? The tar pits are an Ice Age fossil site, actively excavated since the early 1900s. Visitors will see a black liquid bubbling away in the pits, but it's asphalt, not tar. Animals like dire wolves and saber-toothed cats became trapped in the asphalt as far back as 50,000 years ago. The museum is where many of the findings excavated from the pits are on display.

The Museum's Worth

Is the museum worth it, or can I get a good experience just walking around the park? The museum is worth a visit if you're interested in paleontology or in learning more about the discoveries. Otherwise, you can just walk around the park and check out the pits. You can also witness excavations in the park.

Highlights of the Museum

Remarkable Fossils and Skeletons

What's the most impressive fossil or skeleton in the museum? Check out the Dire Wolf Wall, which features 400 skulls from dire wolves, the most-commonly found animal at the site.

Real Fossils vs Replicas

Are there any real fossils on display, or are they all replicas? Yes, there are real fossils in the museum's collection. Visitors can also observe scientists studying new discoveries in the Fossil Lab.

Interactive Exhibits

Are there any hands-on or interactive exhibits for kids or curious adults? Children (and those young at heart) will love the Kid at Heart Tour, which promises fun for all ages, beginning with an Ice Age Encounters Show and ending with rolling down grassy greens!

Planning Your Time

How much time should I plan to spend at the La Brea Tar Pits – can I see everything in an hour or two? Yes, you can explore the outdoor pits and check out the museum in a couple of hours.