The California Science Center is the largest science center in the West Coast. With hands-on learning experiences for all ages, a trip to this museum can take an entire day. It is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The general exhibition galleries are free to enter, but the IMAX theater, high-wire bicycle and the motion-based simulator each require a special admission ticket. As of November 2010, parking is $8 for cars, $10 for buses and $25 for other oversized vehicles.
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles holds and exhibits over 35 million specimens, some that date back as far as 4.5 billion years. Earth's biodiversity is greatly explored at this museum and this is one of the most educational activities L.A. has to offer. The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day, each week, with the exception of major holidays. Children under 4 are free.
Located in the city of Arcadia, the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a 127-acre historical site on Rancho Santa Anita. It is publicly operated by the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation and the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. Exhibiting rare plant collections from around the world as well as endangered species, The Arboretum also contains historical landmarks that represent major eras in California's history. Hours for The Arboretum are 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and admission varies according to season, age of the visitor and exhibits displayed at the time of the tour.
