California Science Center 4.0 (reviews)

The California Science Center is one of the top free things to do with kids in Los Angeles — and a must-visit for any curious family! Packed with hands-on exhibits, live science demos, and the actual Space Shuttle Endeavour on display, this is a day out where your kids can learn and burn energy.

Located in Exposition Park, the center is huge and designed to engage kids of all ages. From the moment you walk in, the vibe is active, educational, and fun. There’s no “don’t touch” here — everything is built to be explored.

One of the biggest highlights is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, housed in its own pavilion. You’ll stand beneath a real NASA space shuttle that flew 25 missions — a jaw-dropping moment for kids and adults alike. Interactive displays explain how shuttles launch, land, and support life in space.

Inside the main science halls, there are zones focused on ecosystems, air & space, human biology, and innovation. Kids can lie on a bed of nails, create tornadoes, pedal bikes across a high wire, or explore how the body works with larger-than-life models. Younger children can splash in water exhibits or play in dedicated early-learning areas, while teens will love the physics and tech experiences.

The Ecosystems Gallery is especially popular — you’ll walk through a desert, dive into a kelp forest, and even experience a flash flood! Live animals like fish, frogs, and snakes give the whole exhibit a zoo-like feel.

There are also IMAX movies on offer (ticketed separately), including nature documentaries and space adventures shown on a massive screen with booming sound. A great optional extra if your family wants to rest their feet mid-visit.

Best of all? General admission is free. You only pay for IMAX shows and some traveling exhibits. That makes this one of the most budget-friendly full-day outings in LA.

Most families spend 2–3 hours here, and it’s perfect in all weather — cool indoors on hot days, and something you can rely on when it’s raining.