Photo via Wikimedia Commons
It is not every museum that parks a retired Space Shuttle on its grounds, but the California Science Center in Los Angeles is not every museum. Space Shuttle Endeavour, which flew 25 missions and logged nearly 123 million miles in orbit before its retirement in 2012, now stands as the collection's crown jewel - and when the planned Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is complete, it will be displayed vertically, as if ready for launch, in what promises to be one of the most dramatic exhibit presentations in the world. Even in its current configuration, the Endeavour is simply staggering to stand beside.But the California Science Center is far more than a shrine to a single spacecraft. Its permanent galleries explore ecosystems, technology, flight, and the human body through hands - on exhibits that reward curiosity at every age level. The World of Life gallery, anchored by a 50 - foot animated figure, illustrates the biological processes that all living things share. The Air and Space gallery traces the history of flight from the Wright Flyer to the present. And for families with young children, the Creative World section invites building, experimenting, and making - the kind of open - ended play that research consistently links to deep learning.With nearly 20, 000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is one of the most beloved cultural institutions in Southern California. The permanent galleries are entirely free, which makes it an extraordinary value proposition in an expensive city. An IMAX theater and the Endeavour tour carry separate admission fees, but even visitors who skip those paid elements leave having encountered something genuinely impressive.The museum is located at 700 Exposition Park Drive and is open daily from 10AM to 5PM. Admission to the permanent galleries is free. Find details and timed - entry information at californiasciencecenter.org.
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