Natural History Museum, Los Angeles

1. When should I register my class for a field trip?
Register early in the school year for the best selection of possible dates and times. Registration begins in September for the following academic year. Demand is greatest for school visits in February-May. Many dates, especially during the spring, fill up months in advance, as do reservations for the Discovery Center and Insect Zoo.

2. How much does it cost to visit the Museum?
School groups, pre-K through 12th grade, that schedule their reservations at least 3 weeks in advance may visit the Museum FREE of charge. There is a $10.00 parking fee for each school bus; $12 for all other buses; $6 for most automobiles.

3. When is the best time to visit the Museum?
The best time to tour the Museum is in the fall, winter or year-round in the afternoon when the Museum is less crowded. You will find it easier and more rewarding to come during this time when our schedule is lighter.

4. How do I register my class for a field trip?
Download and print the Museum's School Visits Reservation Form or call the School Visits Office at (213) 763-3529.

5. How do I decide what to do?
When planning for your field trip, please refer to our the Tips for Visiting page. We then strongly encourage you to make your museum visit relate to your curriculum. To see which California State Education Standards relate to our halls, galleries or exhibits, please visit our Permanent Halls and Standards Guide.

6. What do I need to do if I want to visit the Discovery Center and Insect Zoo?
Due to the limited capacity and popularity of the Discovery Center and Insect Zoo, all school groups are required to make additional reservations to visit these areas. When registering for a school visit, be sure to indicate that you would also like an appointment in the Discovery Center and Insect Zoo. These appointments fill VERY quickly, so book early to avoid disappointment.

7. Does the museum offer guided tours for school groups?
To find information about our school visit programs and to make a reservation, please download and print the Museum's School Visits Reservation Form.

8. Where can the students eat their lunch?
There is a lovely picnic area and rose garden in the park that surrounds the Museum. No food or drink is allowed inside the Museum, even on rainy days. All lunches must remain on the bus(es) or in your car. The museum DOES NOT provide a facility for storing or eating lunches.

9. How many chaperones should I bring?
Teachers are REQUIRED to bring one adult for every ten students. We highly recommend that you bring more than the required minimum number of adults. These adults are admitted free of charge. Your group may be denied entry if you do not bring the minimum required number of adult chaperones. A printable chaperone guide is available in PDF Format.

10. What should I do when I get to the Museum?
Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Museum staff will check-in your school group at the Museum’s South Entrance. Bring your confirmation letter and be prepared to provide the number of students and adults in your group.

11. What else is there in Exposition Park?
Within walking distance of the Natural History Museum are three other popular destinations for school groups: the California Science Center (including the Air and Space Gallery), the California African-American Museum, and the Exposition Park Rose Garden (seasonal).