Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, the La Brea Tar Pits stand as a unique testament to the prehistoric world that once roamed the area. I’ve always loved the idea of that much history concentrated in one place and was beyond excited to finally step onto the grounds of this iconic site. I could feel a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation within myself, eager to embark on a journey through time and uncover the mysteries hidden within the sticky black asphalt.
The first thing that struck me as I entered the park was the distinct smell of tar lingering in the air like a freshly paved highway in summer. Walking along the pathways, following the paw prints put down to mark our path, I marveled at the sight of the tar pits themselves, amazed that they were still there, doing their tarry thing.
There are essentially two parts to the tar pits, the pits themselves and the museum.
The Museum
Stepping inside the museum, I was greeted by a wealth of exhibits and displays that provided a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area. From life-sized replicas of mammoths and saber-toothed cats to interactive multimedia presentations, the museum offered a comprehensive overview of the rich biodiversity that once thrived in Los Angeles during the Pleistocene epoch.
As I wandered through the exhibits, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer scale of time represented within these walls. It really makes you think about how much of a speck you really are in the universe (insert existential crisis here). Each fossil and artifact told a story of ancient life, shedding light on the ecological dynamics that shaped the region millions of years ago.
The Pits/Current Excavations
Of course, no visit to the La Brea Tar Pits would be complete without witnessing the ongoing excavation efforts taking place onsite. When I went there wasn’t anyone working on the current active site, Pit 91, but I was still able to view their work. You could see where unearthed fossils sitting in the tar-laden sediments, preserved for thousands of years.
The La Brea Tar Pits stand as a living record of the past, offering a glimpse into a world that existed long before humans walked the Earth.