Explore the Wonders of Ancient Egypt in Los Angeles

Museums are popular stops for families on vacation — they offer fun and interactive ways to spend a day together as a family with the added bonus of imparting some culture and out-of-the-classroom learning to your little ones. Los Angeles has no shortage of museums to choose from, but, now through Jan. 6, 2019, visitors who visit the California Science Center can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“King Tut: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh” is a collection of more than 150 priceless artifacts from the tomb of the legendary pharaoh. Known as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in history, the collection rarely leaves Egypt. This exhibit, which kicked off its global tour in March in L.A. before heading to Europe, includes many items never on public display outside of Cairo before.

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The splendor of the artifacts is accompanied by videos throughout the exhibit detailing the history of King Tut and the discovery of his tomb. Unearthed in 1922 by an archaeological team led by Howard Carter, the tomb contained everything the young king would need to take him safely into the afterlife. The various presentations not only explain a number of the displays in detail but also shed light on the life, death and lineage of the famous pharaoh who died suddenly at the tender age of 19.

In addition to the multimedia presentations, each item on display is accompanied by a spell from the book of the dead, a collection of Ancient Egyptian writings meant to prepare mummies for the afterlife, contributing to the magical ambience of the exhibit which highlights the Ancient Egyptian quest for immortality.

Items on display include models of boats meant to carry the boy king to the afterlife, amulets and rings worn by the 3,300-year-old mummy, and a 6-foot, 2-inch Guardian of Ka statue, carved out of wood and decorated with gold leaf, obsidian and bronze. The tomb was also filled with furniture, such as a wooden chair with ebony and ivory inlays and a wooden ceremonial bed covered in gold leaf.

Artifacts are expertly preserved and beautifully displayed, offering a rare glimpse into the life of ancient Egyptian royalty. Many items are crafted from wood and gilded with gold leaf, glass and precious stones and survived in remarkable condition for more than 3,000 years.

Audio tours are available for detailed information about each exhibit. Photography for personal use is encouraged as long as you don’t use a flash. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a fun family photo dressed as pharaohs in front of the pyramids of Giza.

Your ticket allows access to most of the Science Center, so plan on extra time to wander around and enjoy the many interactive and educational exhibits, such as the “Goosebumps! The Science of Fear” exhibit, a fun and educational experience that explores how fear affects our bodies and our lives. If you’ve got time, the IMAX Theater has several presentations available on the seven-story screen, including Mysteries of Egypt to accompany your King Tut experience.