Welcome to the National History Museum of Los Angeles! Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the past, this museum is a must-visit destination. The National History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) boasts an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibitions that trace the history of the natural world and the diverse cultures that have inhabited it over the years. Visitors of all ages will find something fascinating to explore, making it the perfect destination for a family day out or a solo adventure into the past. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the most exciting exhibits and highlights at the NHM, so sit back, relax, and get ready for a journey through time!
The National History Museum Los Angeles
The National History Museum of Los Angeles County is a must-visit destination for lovers of science, history, and art. Located in Exposition Park, the museum is home to a vast array of exhibits, events, and programs designed to enlighten and entertain visitors of all ages.
Location and Brief History
The museum was established in 1913 as the Museum of History, Science, and Art and has been an integral part of the Los Angeles cultural landscape ever since. The current location in Exposition Park was opened in 1913 and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years to become the sprawling, state-of-the-art facility we know today.
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, the National History Museum offers easy access to some of the city’s most popular attractions, making it an ideal stop for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy the park’s other attractions, such as the California Science Center, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, all within walking distance.
Collections and Exhibits
The National History Museum boasts an impressive collection of more than 35 million specimens and artifacts, including dinosaur skeletons, gemstones, and cultural artifacts from around the world. The museum’s exhibits are designed to be both educational and entertaining, with interactive displays and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the Dinosaur Hall, which features some of the world’s most impressive dinosaur fossils, including a T-Rex skeleton and a Stegosaurus skeleton. The museum also has a vast collection of gems and minerals, including the largest turquoise in the world and a 3,000-pound amethyst geode.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year, covering topics ranging from ancient civilizations to modern technology.
Special Events and Programs
The National History Museum offers a variety of special events and programs throughout the year, catering to visitors of all interests and ages. Whether you’re interested in lectures, workshops, or family-friendly activities, there’s always something going on at the museum.
Some of the museum’s most popular programs include its First Fridays series, where visitors can explore the museum after hours while enjoying music, food, and drinks. The museum also hosts a variety of workshops and classes, covering topics such as photography, gardening, and science.
For families, the museum’s Discovery Center offers hands-on activities and exhibits designed specifically for children, while the Nature Gardens provide a beautiful outdoor space for exploration and discovery.
In conclusion, the National History Museum Los Angeles is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in science, history, and art. With its impressive collections, engaging exhibits, and diverse programs, this museum is not to be missed.
Visiting the National History Museum Los Angeles
Planning Your Visit
The National History Museum in Los Angeles County is a fascinating place for history enthusiasts to explore. Before planning your visit, it’s best to check the museum’s website for hours of operation, admission fees, and any special exhibits or events taking place. The museum is open seven days a week from 9:30 am to 5 pm, except on major holidays like Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day when it’s closed. The admission fee for adults is $15, and for children ages 3-12, it’s $7. Museum members, active military personnel, and children under 2 years can enter the museum for free.
Getting There and Parking
The National History Museum is located in the Exposition Park area, adjacent to the University of Southern California. It’s easily accessible by car, public transportation, and bike. If you’re driving, the museum is just off the 110 freeway, and parking is available for a fee in the museum’s lot, with entrances from both Figueroa Street and Bill Robertson Lane. If you’re taking public transportation, you can take the Expo Line to the Expo Park/USC Station, which is just a short walk from the museum’s entrance. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, there are bike racks available near the museum’s entrance.
Tips for Enjoying Your Visit
To fully enjoy your visit to the National History Museum in Los Angeles, it’s best to follow these tips to make the most of your time:
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be spending a lot of time exploring the vast collections and exhibits of the museum. There are several floors, so be ready to walk!
- Expect to spend several hours exploring the museum’s different galleries and exhibits. There is a lot to see and learn, so plan accordingly and be sure to allow plenty of time for each section.
- Bring some water and snacks with you as exploring can leave you feeling thirsty and hungry. There is a cafeteria and gift shop located on the lower level of the museum where visitors can purchase food and beverages.
- Download the museum’s mobile app before your visit to make the most of your time there. The app provides additional information about each exhibit and allows visitors to create a custom itinerary for their visit.
- If you have any questions during your visit, don’t hesitate to ask the museum staff or volunteers. They are always available to help and provide additional information about the exhibits.
Overall, the National History Museum in Los Angeles is an amazing place to explore the history of natural sciences, human culture and art. With the tips provided above, you can plan and prepare well for an educational and enjoyable experience.
Membership and Support
Membership and Support play a vital role in the National History Museum of Los Angeles County. As a nonprofit organization, it relies on the support of its members and donors to continue its mission of educating the public about the natural and cultural history of Los Angeles and the world.
Membership Benefits
Members of the National History Museum of Los Angeles County enjoy a variety of benefits, making it a great investment for frequent visitors. Members receive free admission throughout the year and can explore exhibits, watch films, and participate in special events without any additional fee. Members always get the first chance to purchase discounted tickets to special programs and events and receive 10% off purchases at the museum store.
Memberships are available for individuals, couples, and families. The prices vary, but the benefits make it worth the investment. The memberships are also tax-deductible, making them a wise choice for those who support the mission of the museum.
If you’re interested in becoming a member, visit the museum’s website, call the membership office, or stop at the member services desk at the museum.
Supporting the Museum
As a nonprofit organization, the National History Museum of Los Angeles County depends on the support of its members, donors, and volunteers to continue its mission. Donations can be made online or in person at the museum. These donations help fund exhibits, educational programs, and research. Donors can also choose to support a specific program or exhibit.
One of the best ways to support the museum is by becoming a member. In addition, individuals can also volunteer. Volunteer opportunities are available for everyone, regardless of skillset or experience. Volunteers can be exhibit guides, special event assistants, or behind-the-scenes workers. This is a great opportunity to learn about the museum and contribute to its mission.
There are other ways to help the museum as well. Donations of artifacts, specimens, and archives are always welcomed, as long as they align with the museum’s collecting policies and procedures. These donations help further the museum’s preservation and research efforts.
Volunteer Opportunities
The National History Museum of Los Angeles County offers various volunteer opportunities to its supporters. Volunteering is an excellent way to support the museum while learning about its collections, exhibits, and programs.
The volunteers can be exhibit guides, who lead tours, provide interpretation and information about the museum’s exhibits and natural wonders, and inspire visitors to become more engaged with the environment. Other positions include special event assistants, who help with event setup and cleanup, greet visitors, work in the gift shop, and ensure that the event runs smoothly.
Volunteering at the Natural History Museum could be an experience of a lifetime, and it is an excellent way to give back to the community. Interested individuals can apply online or talk to a staff member located in the volunteer center.
In a nutshell, Membership and Support are essential pillars of the National History Museum of Los Angeles County. Becoming a member, donating, or volunteering is one of the best ways to support the museum. Donations help fund exhibits, educational programs, and research, while volunteers get the opportunity to learn about the museum and contribute to its mission, making it a great experience.
Educational Opportunities
The National History Museum of Los Angeles County offers a plethora of opportunities for visitors to learn about history and science. The museum’s educational programs include field trips, teacher resources and professional development, and research and internship opportunities.
Field Trips and Group Visits
The National History Museum of Los Angeles County provides a unique field trip experience for students of all ages. The museum’s exhibits bring history and science to life through interactive displays and engaging content that is both educational and entertaining. The museum offers guided tours designed to enhance the learning experience for both students and teachers. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, including self-guided tours and docent-led tours.
In addition to field trips, the museum also offers group visits for organizations such as youth groups and senior citizens. The group visits provide an opportunity to explore the museum’s exhibits, attend lectures, and participate in hands-on workshops that are tailored to the group’s interests and needs.
Teacher Resources and Professional Development
The National History Museum of Los Angeles County provides numerous resources and professional development opportunities to teachers, making it a valuable educational resource for the community. The museum offers lesson plans, online educational resources, and workshops designed to enhance and supplement classroom instruction. Teachers can also participate in professional development opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and lectures, which provide opportunities for networking and collaboration with other educators.
The museum’s teacher resources and professional development programs are designed to meet the needs of educators working in a variety of educational settings, from K-12 schools to colleges and universities. The resources are aligned with national and state education standards, ensuring that teachers are providing students with a rigorous and comprehensive education.
Research and Internship Opportunities
The National History Museum of Los Angeles County provides research and internship opportunities for students and scholars in various areas, including anthropology and paleontology. The museum’s collections are a valuable resource for researchers and scholars who are interested in studying history and science. The museum offers several research programs, including field research and laboratory research, which provide hands-on experience for students and scholars.
The museum also offers internship opportunities to students who are interested in pursuing careers in history and science. The internships are designed to provide students with practical experience and exposure to the various aspects of museum operations.
In conclusion, the National History Museum of Los Angeles County offers a wide range of educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. The museum’s exhibits, resources, and professional development programs are designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging educational experience for students, teachers, and researchers. Whether you are a student, educator, or researcher, the National History Museum of Los Angeles County is a valuable resource for learning about history and science.