A major bucket list item, the nearby La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is a mini day trip worth taking. Unlike any other outing in the Anaheim area, it’s home to the biggest active Ice Age excavation site in the world. Excavations are always happening, and it’s very likely you’ll spot an archeological team hard at work during your stop. Already, over 3.5 million fossils have been recovered from La Brea, and new discoveries are still made daily.
Highlighted finds include the Naegele’s Giant Jaguar, a rarity in this region. Dubbed “Fluffy,” 40 percent of the animal has been recovered (so far) and is especially exciting for scientists examining limb proportions. Prehistoric findings help visitors and scientists discover exotic animals that roamed Hollywood from the Dinosaur Era through the last Ice Age.
What Will You Uncover?
For 20 years, the observation pit was closed and the only option was the Excavator Tour (free with museum admission). However, as of last March, the Observation Pit has reopened for students. Simply fill out a request form if you’re traveling as part of an educational tour. If not, the Excavator Tour is still the best way for smaller groups and solo travels to explore the pits.
The museum is where you can get up close and personal with millions of cleaned, displayed fossils and much more. Visit the Fossil Lab, or check out the numerous exhibits like Mammoth, Smilodon, Camelop, Condor and more. From the atrium to the 3-D theater, you’ll want to set aside plenty of time to roam this downtown destination.
