Museum Row Tour: The Fast & The Fossilized on Wilshire Blvd
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the stories behind Wilshire Boulevard’s Miracle Mile on this engaging tour showcasing four remarkable museums. Your expert guide will lead you through their outdoor spaces, revealing the surprising connections between cars, art, film, and natural history in Los Angeles.
We begin at the La Brea Tar Pits, where you’ll step back in time to see active fossil digs and remains of Ice Age giants like woolly mammoths and giant sloths.
At LACMA, capture the perfect shot at “Urban Light,” LA’s most photographed landmark and learn about the largest art museum in the western United States.
Then, marvel at the Petersen Automotive Museum’s stunning collection, from rare prototypes to legendary Batmobiles, a true car enthusiasts dream!
Finally, we finish at the entrance of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, where you’ll get a taste of cinematic history and get to marvel at this historic Streamline Moderne landmark built in 1939 as a May Company department store.
Available options
2:00 PM
2:00 PM
10:00 AM
10:00 AM
What's included
Guided Tour of outdoor museum areas
English Speaking Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit these historic tar pits where natural asphalt (tar) has seeped up from the ground for tens of thousands of years! These pits have trapped and preserved a remarkable amount of Ice Age fossils, including saber-toothed cats, mammoths, dire wolves, and many other animals.
2
Stop 2
LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States and holds a vast collection of artworks spanning from ancient times to the present day. With exhibits ranging from paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts to photography, textiles, and contemporary art installations we'll explore some of the outside art installations.
3
Take a picture at the iconic "Urban Light" installation, featuring 202 Los Angeles restored vintage street lamps!
4
Stop 4
The Petersen Automotive Museum is a popular destination for automotive enthusiasts, historians, and visitors interested in exploring the evolution of transportation and its impact on society. It is one of the world's largest automotive museums and is renowned for its extensive collection of classic, vintage, and modern cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles.
5
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles is the world’s premier institution dedicated to the art, history, and science of filmmaking. Opened in 2021 and operated by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (the organization behind the Oscars), the museum features immersive exhibitions, rare artifacts, iconic costumes, props, and interactive experiences that explore cinema’s past, present, and future. Housed in a stunning Renzo Piano–designed building with the distinctive glass-domed David Geffen Theater, it offers film screenings, special programs, and behind-the-scenes insights into Hollywood’s creative process.
What's not included
Parking
Museum Admission Tickets (optional)
Guide Gratuities (appreciated but not expected)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
10 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet in front of La Brea Tar Pits Sign at corner of Wilshire and S Curson
About Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its Hollywood glamour, sunny beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. From iconic landmarks to world-class dining and entertainment, LA offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Hollywood Walk of Fame
A must-visit for film and entertainment enthusiasts, the Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities in the entertainment industry.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Santa Monica Pier
An iconic beachfront amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and numerous rides, the Santa Monica Pier offers fun for all ages.
Entertainment
Half day
Free entry, rides cost extra
Griffith Observatory
A public observatory offering stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign, as well as educational exhibits about space and astronomy.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (some exhibits and shows have fees)
The Getty Center
A world-renowned art museum featuring European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and photographs.
Museum
Half day
Free (parking fee applies)
Venice Beach
A vibrant beach community known for its boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic shops, as well as its beautiful sandy beaches.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish Tacos
A popular street food item featuring grilled or fried fish in a tortilla, topped with salsa and crema.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various types of fish, vegetarian options available.
Korean BBQ
A staple of LA's Korean food scene, featuring marinated meats grilled at the table and served with side dishes.
Dinner
Contains meat, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.
Avocado Toast
A trendy dish featuring toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, often garnished with eggs, tomatoes, or other toppings.
Breakfast/Brunch
Vegetarian, vegan options available.
Tacos al Pastor
A traditional Mexican taco featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Griffith Park
Rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park
Surfing in Malibu
Beach day in Santa Monica
Spa day in Beverly Hills
Yoga in Venice Beach
Visiting museums in Downtown LA
Exploring historic sites in Olvera Street
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is the best time to visit for comfortable sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT), GMT-8 (Standard Time), GMT-7 (Daylight Saving Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
LA is generally safe for tourists, but some areas can be risky, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious at night and in less touristy areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
Getting there
By air
- Los Angeles International Airport • 20 km from city center
- Bob Hope Airport • 30 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro Rail system includes several subway and light rail lines that cover most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hollywood
Santa Monica
Downtown LA
Venice
Beverly Hills
Day trips
Santa Barbara
150 km from LA • Full day
A charming coastal city known for its Spanish architecture, wineries, and beautiful beaches.
Disneyland Resort
50 km from LA • Full day
A world-famous theme park featuring Disney characters, rides, and attractions for all ages.
Joshua Tree National Park
200 km from LA • Full day or overnight
A unique desert landscape featuring iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and hiking trails.
Festivals
Hollywood Bowl Summer Concert Series • June to September
LA Pride • June
LA County Fair • September to October
Pro tips
- Use public transportation or walk whenever possible to avoid traffic and parking issues
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions and events
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots for a more local experience
- Be prepared for traffic and congestion, especially during peak hours
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as LA can be hot and sunny year-round
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
