The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) in Exposition Park is one of the preeminent natural history museums in the country with extensive research branches that continually expand the collection. Highlights include the Dinosaur Hall, the Gem and Mineral Hall, the Insect Zoo, animal habitats from Africa and North America, and the hands-on Nature Lab and Discovery Center.

Located next to the California Science Center and the California African American Museum, Exposition Park is conveniently across the street from the University of Southern California.

History

NHM originally opened in Exposition Park in 1913 as the Los Angeles County Museum of History, Science and Art in the domed brick building that is now the east wing of the current museum. The museum was expanded in 1920 and had subsequent enlargements through 1930. An auditorium was added in 1958-60 and a significant expansion took place in 1976. Notably, the glass Otis Pavilion, which serves as the present north entrance, was added in 2013 for the museum’s centennial.

Initially, when the museum opened in 1913, there was a scarcity of art to exhibit; however, by the 1960s, the County’s art holdings had grown sufficient to warrant the establishment of a separate art museum, which is now the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) on Wilshire Boulevard.

Permanent Exhibits

• Becoming Los Angeles: This exhibit hall focuses on 500 years of the Los Angeles Basin history, featuring the Tongva Indians through various significant historical events.
• The Dinosaur Hall: Home to one of the world’s largest collections with numerous mounted dinosaur skeletons, including a series of Tyrannosaurus rex specimens.
• The Fin Whale Passage: Showcases a restored fin whale skeleton, which was acquired by the museum in 1926.
• The Habitat Halls: Depicts North American and African wildlife with stunning diorama displays.
• The Age of Mammals: Features over 240 specimens revealing the evolution of mammals throughout history, including unique fossils.
• The Hall of Birds: A diverse collection showing over 400 bird species.
• The Gem and Mineral Hall: Contains a valuable collection of minerals, including the prestigious Mojave Nugget.
• Visible Vault: A selection of archaeological artifacts from ancient Latin America.
• The Insect Zoo: Hosts a dynamic array of insects across 30 terrariums and aquariums.
• The Discovery Center: Offers hands-on experiences with a variety of artifacts for visitors of all ages.

Special Exhibits

In addition to the permanent displays, the Natural History Museum hosts temporary and seasonal exhibits, such as:

• The Butterfly Pavilion: A seasonal environment to observe various butterfly species.
• The Spider Pavilion: Showcasing spider species and offering demonstrations during the fall.
• Dino Lab: An interactive exhibit where paleontologists often showcase fossil cleaning and study.

Programs and Activities

The Los Angeles Natural History Museum offers a wide range of programs catering to all ages, including:

• Live Animal Encounters and Nature Walks.
• Dinosaur Encounters featuring life-sized puppets on select days.
• A variety of seasonal events such as Summer Nights in the Garden.

Amenities

The NHM Grill offers a selection of meals, while picnic areas are strategically placed around the museum for enjoying outdoor lunches. However, please note that outside food is not permitted inside the museum galleries.

Museum Stores

The main Museum Store, located near the North Entrance, features various gifts and educational items. Smaller specialty shops are available at different exhibitions throughout the museum.

Accessibility

NHM is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs can be obtained at the admission desk. Stroller access is allowed, and additional family amenities are available throughout the facility.

Tips for Visiting

• Prioritize and break up your visit: Focus on the key exhibits first to avoid fatigue.
• Beat the crowds: Aim to visit during weekday afternoons or early mornings.
• Join Free First Tuesdays: Enjoy complimentary admission on the first Tuesday of each month, though expect larger crowds.
• Mind the temperature: Some galleries can be colder; consider bringing a sweater.
• Plan for outdoor meals: Utilize the designated picnic areas for enjoying meals outside.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• NHM is home to the only known fossil of the tiny dinosaur, Fruitidens haagarorum.
• It showcases the Mojave Nugget, the largest gold nugget in captivity.
• The museum houses ancient meteorites dated at 4.5 billion years old.

This information is accurate as of the last update; check the museum website for the latest details.