LA: Expo Park Space & Dinosaurs Tour with Cal Science Center

Getting a quick yet meaningful glimpse of Los Angeles can be tricky — the city’s sprawling neighborhoods and endless attractions make it hard to decide what to prioritize. That’s where this LA: Expo Park Space & Dinosaurs Tour with Cal Science Center comes in. It’s a compact, 1.5-hour guided walk that packs some of the city’s most iconic sights into a manageable and family-friendly experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its rich mixture of history, science, and nature—from the legendary Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to the fascinating dinosaur fossils. Second, the expert guides bring each stop to life with captivating stories and insider insights. And third, the tour offers a superb value at only $34 per person for such a diverse and comprehensive experience.

However, it’s worth noting that tickets to the Natural History Museum’s main building aren’t included, which means you’ll need to plan separately if you want full access to every exhibit. Still, for those who enjoy a curated, educational overview within a tight schedule, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially well-suited for families, newcomers to LA, and anyone curious about the city’s culture, history, and natural attractions.

Good To Know

• Concise, engaging experience covering major highlights of Exposition Park in just 1.5 hours
• Knowledgeable guides who make history and science accessible and entertaining
• Great value at $34, offering a mix of outdoor sightseeing and educational stops
• Family-friendly and accessible for all ages, including wheelchair users
• Includes iconic sites like the LA Memorial Coliseum, California Science Center, and Natural History Museum
• Opportunity to learn about LA’s Olympic history and explore impressive exhibits like space shuttles and dinosaurs

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The LA Memorial Coliseum

Your adventure kicks off outside the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, an instantly recognizable symbol of the city’s sports and entertainment history. This stadium has hosted the Olympics twice — 1932 and 1984 — and will do so again in 2028. Standing here, it’s easy to imagine the roar of crowds and the thrill of Olympic moments.

The guide will share stories about the stadium’s legacy, and you’ll have a chance to snap photos with the Olympic rings and torch. It’s a quick but powerful start, offering a tangible connection to LA’s global stage.

The California Science Center: Space and Nature Unveiled

Next, the tour takes you to the California Science Center, one of the most exciting science museums in the world — and one of the few with actual spacecraft. Here, you’ll get close to the Space Shuttle Endeavour, a highlight that truly captures imagination and history. Many visitors mention that the guides are very knowledgeable, sharing detailed stories about the spacecraft’s journey and significance.

The space exhibits are complemented by the live animal tanks and aquariums, including a massive 188,000-gallon tank filled with over 1,500 marine creatures. This part of the experience is especially engaging for children and marine enthusiasts alike.

The science center is more than just exhibits — it’s an interactive playground that makes complex ideas accessible. Reviewers praise the guide’s ability to keep explanations engaging, with one noting, “Our guide was super knowledgeable and sensitive to our kids’ needs and interests,” making this visit both educational and fun.

Strolling through the Historic Rose Garden and USC Campus

A short walk outside the Science Center leads you into the beautiful Rose Garden, an historic and fragrant spot with views of the nearby University of Southern California campus. The garden’s calm atmosphere provides a perfect chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, and learn about the area’s development.

Your guide will share insights into LA’s evolution, highlighting the university’s role in shaping the neighborhood. The garden is a peaceful contrast to the bustling city and makes for some lovely photos.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Natural History Museum’s New Wing: Dinosaurs and Discoveries

The final part of the tour is a visit to the Natural History Museum’s recently expanded wing. Here, you’ll encounter a 75-foot-long dinosaur skeleton, a jaw-dropping centerpiece that excites both kids and adults. The guide will tell stories about fossils found locally and what they reveal about LA’s prehistoric past.

While access to the main building isn’t included, the guided tour of the new wing offers a captivating snapshot of natural history. Past visitors note that the stories about local fossils are particularly interesting, bringing a sense of discovery about LA long before Hollywood’s glitz.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to be accessible and flexible. It begins outside the Box Office of BMO Stadium at 3939 S Figueroa St, LA, making it easy to find and meet your guide.

Duration is approximately 1.5 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time or looking for a quick overview. The tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible, ensuring it suits most visitors.

Tickets to the main Natural History Museum are not included, so if you want full access, you’ll need to purchase additional entry tickets. The tour’s value lies in the curated experience and guided commentary, which many find enhances their understanding far more than self-guided visits.

Many reviewers mention that the guide’s storytelling is a highlight, with one saying, “We loved how knowledgeable and sensitive the guide was,” ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.

Value for Money

At just $34 per person, this tour offers significant value considering the variety of sites covered and the expert guidance. It’s a cost-effective way to cover a broad swath of LA’s highlights without the hassle of navigating public transportation or booking multiple tickets.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with kids, thanks to its mix of science, dinosaurs, and outdoor sights. It’s also great for first-time visitors wanting a quick introduction to LA’s history and culture, or locals eager to learn new stories about their city.

Because of its manageable length and inclusive stops, it suits a broad age range and mobility needs.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This guided tour of Exposition Park offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse into LA’s rich cultural and natural history. The combination of iconic landmarks, exciting exhibits, and engaging guides makes it a fantastic value for the price.

The tour’s focus on storytelling and expert insights transforms a simple walk into a memorable experience. While it doesn’t include full access to the Natural History Museum, the highlights and educational content make it well worth considering.

If you’re visiting LA or live locally and want a family-friendly, educational outing that touches on sports, space, dinosaurs, and local history, this tour ticks all the boxes. Its accessibility, affordability, and variety make it a smart choice for many travelers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is designed to be family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with guides sensitive to kids’ needs and interests.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity within a busy sightseeing day.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet your guide outside the Box Office of BMO Stadium at 3939 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles.

Are tickets to the Natural History Museum included?
No, the tour includes a guided visit to the museum’s new wing, but separate tickets are needed for full access to the main building.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is conducted in English.

Is there an age limit?
The tour is suitable for all ages, making it a versatile choice for families and groups.

What makes this tour a good value?
At just $34, it offers guided insights, multiple key sites, and a well-rounded experience that would cost much more if booked separately.

This guided walk through LA’s historic and natural highlights offers a balanced mix of education, fun, and practicality—an excellent way to get to know the city’s core in a short amount of time.

You can check if your dates are available here: