California Science Center

Situated between the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and the park's expansive rose gardens, the science center is an imaginative lesson plan distilled in concrete, stainless steel and terra cotta tile. It is a place where fundamental concepts take mind-teasing physical form. Basic questions and observations of the natural world are literally underfoot--inscribed on the stone slabs that pave the entrance way. One inscription admonishes: "The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper."

From a five-story kinetic sculpture, to a 50-foot robot that lectures on human biology with a wave of its 2-ton arm, curators have infused the center with a remarkable theatricality. There is a walk-in microscope, a virtual reality space docking simulator and discovery rooms decorated with Toontown flair.

Exhibits: Technology and various innovations from the world of science and engineering, including medicine, communications, aerospace and transportation. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Fees: Free admission, except for tickets to IMAX films. Parking is $5.