I <3 LA: Museums Across the Street
Just across the street from the USC campus is Exposition Park, an urban park where you can find a collection of world-class museums and entertainment venues, including the Los Angeles Coliseum. USC students get free access to these museums. (Many of the museums also offer free general admission to all visitors.) Exposition Park is a great way for students to take a break from campus and enjoy opportunities outside the classroom. Here are the museums that students and visitors can find just across the street from the USC campus:
The California Science Center is one of the largest and most highly rated museums in the nation. It features nearly 150 interactive exhibits, an IMAX Theater, and the iconic Endeavour Space Shuttle. The California Science Center is currently expanding its Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which is scheduled to open in November 2026. Visitors will get to see the Endeavor Space Shuttle in launch position, along with a collection of authentic aircraft artifacts.
Discover the natural and cultural history of the world at the Natural History Museum. With over 35 million objects, specimens, and artifacts, visitors can explore various exhibits spanning from prehistoric to modern times. Popular exhibits include the Dinosaur Hall, with over 300 fossils, and the Gem and Mineral Hall, which features the rarest gemstones in the world. You can also learn about the native history and development of Los Angeles in the Becoming Los Angeles exhibit.
California African American Museum
Further explore the history and culture of African Americans at the California African American Museum. Along with housing a vast collection of artwork and historical documents, the museum also hosts special performances, workshops, and other engaging events that offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the past, present, and future of the African American community.
Founded by the creator of Star Wars, George Lucas, and Mellody Hobson, the highly anticipated Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will showcase the art of visual storytelling through dynamic galleries, two state-of-the-art cinematic theaters, and spaces for learning and engagement. The museum is scheduled to open in September 2026. The coolest part of the Lucas Museum is not only the artwork that it will feature, but also the building itself. The 300,000-square-foot building resembles a futuristic starship with a green roof and gardens that will make visitors feel like they are in another world.
Written By: Marlin Banuelos, Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission