Curiosity Grove

  • The iconic climbing tree framed by an all-new colorful mural inside the new Curiosity Grove educational play space.
  • A boy in a deer costume plays with an interactive puzzle in the new Curiosity Grove educational play space.
  • A panoramic view inside the colorful new Curiosity Grove educational play space.
Young imaginations blossom in Curiosity Grove, a forest-themed environment perfect for little learners. New early childhood programs, an expanded playspace, and enchanting murals await explorers of all ages.

This completely reimagined educational playspace features vibrant, animal-filled murals that bring California’s diverse forest ecosystems to life, interactive, science-themed games, toys, and climbing structures, and a variety of kid-friendly public programs. 

Kids playing with the colorful wall puzzle in the new Curiosity Grove

What's New?

Updates abound! No more lines makes entry a breeze, easy-to-clean flooring means shoes can stay on, and relaxed age restrictions mean everyone’s welcome. Plus, moms can nurse in a new, secluded nook and restrooms are now all-gender and family-friendly. 

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A young explorer emerges from a secret hiding place below the climbing tree in Curiosity Grove.

Space for Adventure

Whether your child is captivated by forest canopies or a library full of field guides, the Grove is packed with enough activities and more open space for curious, growing minds—and plenty of excess energy.

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Young visitors explore the kid-friendly specimens on exhibit.

Animal Encounters

Curiosity Grove is home to some very special residents: a colony of Madagascar hissing cockroaches and an Eastern box turtle. Eye-level tanks make observing these not-so-creepy crawlers easy for little ones.

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Portrait of illustrator Alexander Vidal, the artist who created the woodland murals in Curiosity Grove.

About the Muralist

The man behind Curiosity Grove's magical murals is LA-based illustrator and designer Alexander Vidal. His favorite part of creating these murals? Showing all the amazing creatures who call California home.

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Curiosity Grove Hours

Curiosity Grove Hours

Mon – Sat: 10 am – 4:30 pm
Sun: 11 am – 4:30 pm

Members-only:
Tue: 8:30 – 9:30 am
Sun: 10 – 11 am

 

 

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Parent Tips

Logistical tips and age-specific suggestions to help parents with kids plan their visit.

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A visitor inspecting the Naturalist Center cabinets filled with specimens, books, and more.
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Come with questions and touch real specimens! This Academy favorite is for curious minds and vivid imaginations.