The La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles are one of the most fascinating natural and historical attractions in California. Famous for their bubbling asphalt and preserved Ice Age fossils, the tar pits attract millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re curious about its history, wondering about ticket prices, or asking yourself “Is it worth going to La Brea Tar Pits?” this guide covers everything you need.
What Are the La Brea Tar Pits?
The La Brea Tar Pits are natural asphalt seeps located in Hancock Park, Los Angeles. For tens of thousands of years, animals became trapped in the sticky tar, preserving their bones and giving scientists a window into the Ice Age.
Travel Tip: The tar pits are in central Los Angeles, just a short drive from LAX. Renting a car with 24Seven Rent A Car makes it easy to combine your visit with other LA attractions.
La Brea Tar Pits History
The history of the tar pits dates back over 50,000 years, when saber-toothed cats, mammoths, dire wolves, and ground sloths roamed the region. Native Americans later used the tar for waterproofing, and Spanish explorers documented the pits in the 1700s. Excavations began in the early 1900s, and today the site remains an active paleontological dig.
How Deep Are the La Brea Tar Pits?
The depth varies, but some pits reach over 20 feet deep. However, most of what you see at the surface is asphalt bubbling due to methane gas.
La Brea Tar Pits Animals
More than 3.5 million fossils have been discovered here, including:
- Saber-toothed cats
- Dire wolves
- Woolly mammoths
- Giant ground sloths
- Ancient bison and horses
You can see many of these fossils at the La Brea Tar Pits Museum (Page Museum).
La Brea Tar Pits Photos & Map
Visitors can take incredible photos of active tar seeps, life-sized animal sculptures, and ongoing fossil excavations. A La Brea Tar Pits map is available at the entrance or online to guide you through the museum, pits, and observation areas.
Tickets & Admission
- La Brea Tar Pits Museum Tickets: Adults: ~$15, Youth (3–12): ~$7, Seniors/Students: ~$12
- Outside Tar Pits: Free to view in Hancock Park
Do I Need Tickets for La Brea Tar Pits?
You can explore the tar pits outdoors for free, but museum tickets are required to see fossils and exhibits.
How Much Time Do You Need at La Brea Tar Pits?
Plan at least 2–3 hours to explore the museum, outdoor tar pits, and observation areas.
Is It Worth Going to La Brea Tar Pits?
Yes, especially if you love history, science, or family-friendly educational experiences. It’s a rare chance to see an active Ice Age excavation site in the middle of Los Angeles.
Getting There: Public transit can be slow. With 24Seven Rent A Car, you can easily drive from LAX to the tar pits in under 30 minutes.
Other Attractions Nearby
- Griffith Observatory – great for stargazing and astronomy lovers
- LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) – one of the largest art museums in the U.S.
Make the most of your trip by renting a car and visiting multiple attractions in one day. Book your car rental here.
FAQs About La Brea Tar Pits
Final Thoughts
The La Brea Tar Pits are a must-visit landmark in Los Angeles, blending science, history, and family adventure. Whether you come for the fossils, the bubbling asphalt, or the museum, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of the Ice Age.
Ready to explore Los Angeles your way? Rent a car with 24Seven Rent A Car and make your trip to the La Brea Tar Pits and beyond smooth, flexible, and unforgettable.