Photo: Cuiyan Mei
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Skirball Cultural Center
★4.7(2,146 reviews)$Museum
🕑 2.5-4 hours👶 Best for ages 18 months to 10 years. Toddlers and preschoolers absolutely love climbing on the whimsical wooden animals and exploring the multi-level Ark, while elementary-aged kids appreciate the interactive exhibits and storytelling elements throughout the space.🧡 Saved by 47 families
About
The Skirball Cultural Center offers a perfect blend of culture and play for families, with its crown jewel being Noah's Ark, an immersive two-story indoor play space featuring life-sized wooden animals kids can actually climb on and explore. Beyond the Ark, families can enjoy rotating exhibitions, outdoor gardens, and hands-on activities that celebrate Jewish heritage and universal values in ways that engage young learners.
Highlights
- ✓Noah's Ark interactive play space with life-sized climbable wooden animals including elephants, zebras, and crocodiles
- ✓Two-story Ark structure with ramps, bridges, and discovery zones on multiple levels
- ✓Hands-on archaeology dig area where kids can uncover replica artifacts
- ✓Outdoor gardens and terraces with stunning views perfect for running around
- ✓Rotating family-friendly art exhibitions and cultural programs
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when Noah's Ark opens (weekend mornings are especially popular) to beat the crowds and give kids maximum exploration time before it gets busy
- 2.Socks are required in Noah's Ark, so bring them or purchase them at the gift shop,little ones will be doing lots of climbing and sliding
- 3.Pack snacks and use the outdoor picnic areas with gorgeous valley views, though there's also Zeidler's Café on-site for light meals
- 4.Admission to Noah's Ark is free, but general museum admission applies for adults visiting the galleries,check their website for free admission days
- 5.Don't miss the hands-on archaeology dig area and craft stations near Noah's Ark, which are often less crowded than the main play structure
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday, 12:00-3:00 PM) offer the least crowded experience. Saturday and Sunday mornings at opening (10:00 AM) are ideal if weekends work better, but expect more families. Avoid holiday weekends when lines for Noah's Ark can be lengthy.
What to Know
General admission is $15 for adults (18+) and free for children under 18. Parking is free in the adjacent lot. The café serves kid-friendly options, and the facility is fully accessible with elevators and plenty of stroller space.
Seasonal Notes
The indoor Noah's Ark is available year-round making this an excellent rainy day option. The center hosts special holiday programming including Hanukkah celebrations and family festivals throughout the year. Summer can be busier with camps and special programs, so check the calendar ahead.
Nearby Eats
Brentwood Gardens is about 5 minutes away offering pizza, pasta, and a casual family atmosphere. For a quick bite, head to Coral Tree Café (10 minutes) which has healthy kids' meals, smoothies, and a relaxed vibe perfect for post-museum hungry children.
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