La Brea Tar Pits Guide
Where Mammoths Roamed: Journey to the Ice Age at La Brea Tar Pits Guide
Venture back to the Ice Age at the La Brea Tar Pits, a unique and fascinating paleontological site right in the heart of Los Angeles. Witness the bubbling asphalt seeps that have trapped and preserved countless prehistoric creatures for tens of thousands of years. This is not just a museum; it's an active excavation site where scientists continue to unearth new discoveries, offering a glimpse into a world ruled by mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves. The La Brea Tar Pits began forming around 40,000 years ago when crude oil seeped to the surface, creating sticky pools of asphalt. These pools acted as natural traps for unsuspecting animals, whose bones were remarkably preserved in the tar. Over the centuries, these fossils have provided invaluable insights into the flora and fauna of the Pleistocene epoch. The Page Museum, located adjacent to the tar pits, showcases the incredible collection of fossils unearthed at the site. Explore the observation pit to see paleontologists at work, uncovering new fossils from the tar. Visit the Page Museum to view the skeletons of mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and other Ice Age creatures. Take a stroll through Hancock Park and observe the bubbling tar pits firsthand. The 3D theater shows a short film about the history of the tar pits. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the La Brea Tar Pits, the surrounding Miracle Mile neighborhood offers a diverse range of dining options.
Transportation
The La Brea Tar Pits are accessible by public transportation. Take Metro Local lines 20, 212, or 720, which stop near the museum and park. The Metro E Line (Expo Line) is a bit further away, requiring a transfer to a bus or a longer walk from the Fairfax Ave station.
Opening Hours
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Ticket Price
$15-17