I can’t believe it took so long for me to visit The Skirball Cultural Center in Bel Air. It is fantastic. We visited for the first time recently to see The Jim Henson Exhibit, and also to check out the Noah’s Ark Exhibit.
Recycled Materials turn into Artistic Animals
All the animals in the exhibit are cleverly created and beautifully handcrafted. From the violin case alligators at the beginning to the mechanical giraffe in the open hall to the menagerie inside the Ark, each one is a piece of art, which thankfully, beg to be touched.
Completely Interactive
The exhibit is interactive from the beginning. We were told the story of the Ark by an enthusiastic museum guide, who gave us an overview of the exhibit. We loved discovering the cranks, conveyor belts, rope pulls, puppets, and animal seating.
Inside the Ark
As if the other sections weren’t fantastic enough, inside the Ark is even more amazing. There are places for kids to climb around the perimeter, different levels, and pulley systems to transport fun items like pretend food. What made us giggle were the pretend animal poop and a kid-sized broom! Very realistic!
Places for Adults to Rest
We hung out in cool little areas while our daughter ran around the Ark. I particularly liked the little “lounge” area encased by bamboo, which also housed a gorilla and her baby gorilla made out of tires.
Story Time and Music Time
Noah’s Ark is a timed exhibit, allowing guests to stay as long as 90 minutes. I love that they regulate the entries, because that way it doesn’t get crowded or chaotic. When it’s near the end of the 90 minute mark, museum workers bang a drum and gather everyone to the back room, where they read a book for story time. Also in the back room is where the older kids can check-in to do a scavenger hunt. There is also a place to draw, learn about protecting endangered animals, and rebuilding their habitats.
We really enjoyed Noah’s Ark at the Skirball and look forward to our next visit!
Noah’s Ark at The Skirball
The Skirball Cultural Center is a museum and cultural center in Los Angeles with exciting exhibitions, programs, classes, and more.
To learn more, visit:
www.skirball.org/noahs-ark
Disclaimer: Westside Mommy received press tickets in order to facilitate a review of this exhibit. No monetary compensation was exchanged for this post. All opinions are honest and 100% my own.
