Blue Whales 3D at the California Science Center

The dog days of summer are upon us and if you are looking for something to do with the family, look no further than the California Science Center. Not only is it free admission for all, but it’s a great way to beat the summer heat!

It’s been three years since we last visited the California Science Center and we were excited to see the new documentary film, Blue Whales 3D: Return of the Giants. One thing to note is that the permanent galleries, including Space Shuttle Endeavour are free and do not require a reservation. However, the IMAX and Special Exhibits require a ticket.

About the Movie:

“Blue Whales: Return of the Giants 3D” narrated by Award-Winning actor Andy Serkis, takes viewers on a journey of a lifetime to explore the world of the magnificent blue whale, a species rebounding from the brink of extinction. Blue whales are the largest animals ever to have lived, bigger than any dinosaur, yet we know surprisingly little about them. Blue Whales: Return of the Giants 3D will entertain audiences of all ages and transform our understanding of these iconic creatures. The film follows two scientific expeditions: one, a high-risk mission to find a missing population of blue whales, not seen in 50 years; and the other, to join Diane Gendron, the “Blue Whale Whisperer,” in Mexico’s Gulf of California, where she and her team explore the important role these remarkable animals play in the health of our oceans. The film provides an unforgettable window into the lives these animals live—and the extremes scientists must endure to study them. Joined by a cast of supporting characters—from dolphins and sperm whales to sea lions and orcas—the blue whale finally gets its star turn…in life-size, on the giant screen!

The movie is amazing to see on the large IMAX screen! Watching the pod of blue whales swim in the Gulf of California is absolutely breathtaking. My family was riveted as we listened to the scientists talk about these incredible creatures.

Once the movie was over, we explored the rest of the museum, starting with the Air & Space exhibit. The Space Shuttle Endeavour is massive and quite a sight to see.

The California Science Center is building the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which will dramatically expand the footprint and impact of the California Science Center, adding 200,000 square feet of space for exhibits, events and educational programs. It will also house the Space Shuttle Endeavor.

Recently, the California Science Center launched Go for Stack with the installation of the two aft skirts, the base of the solid rocket boosters. This is the Science Center’s first step in creating the world’s only display of an authentic, ready-to-launch space shuttle system.

Please note that December 31, 2023 will be the last chance to see Endeavour on exhibit, until the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center opens to the public. Read updates on Go for Stack and click here to check out the progress on the future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center.

The Science Center has many other exhibits, and you could literally spend hours looking at everything. Jane’s Endangered Animal Experience is a hands-on exhibit where you will learn about the North American honey bee.

You can also learn about our planet’s various ecosystems and so much more!

For more information on the California Science Center, visit their website here. Don’t forget to follow their Facebook page for the latest updates!

Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. I received complimentary tickets to the museum which helped facilitate this review. All images are mine unless otherwise noted. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.