The programming includes the return of the popular butterfly pavilion. (photo courtesy of NHMLAC)

The Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County announced a diverse lineup of exhibitions, public programs and community science initiatives for the summer and fall at the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, offering visitors new opportunities to explore science, nature and history through interactive experiences.

The seasonal schedule includes major exhibitions, returning family favorites, educational workshops and research projects that invite Angelenos to participate in documenting Southern California’s biodiversity.

Leading the museum’s exhibition lineup is “Orcas: Our Shared Future,” making its West Coast debut. The exhibition explores the relationship between orcas, people and the oceans through immersive installations, life-size models and Indigenous artwork. Museum officials said the exhibition combines scientific research and cultural perspectives while encouraging visitors to learn more about biodiversity and marine habitat conservation. It will remain on view through April 25, 2027.

Also on display is “Unearthed: Raw Beauty,” which showcases remarkable mineral specimens in their natural, uncut form. The exhibition examines how gems, crystals and minerals are formed and how museum scientists use mineral research to better understand Earth’s geology and develop more sustainable technologies. The exhibition features specimens from the museum’s collection alongside loans from noted mineral collector Dr. Robert Lavinsky and continues through April 18, 2027.

Seasonal attractions also return this year, including the Butterfly Pavilion, which remains open through Aug. 23. The outdoor experience allows visitors to walk among hundreds of butterflies in a habitat filled with native plants. Later in the fall, the museum’s popular Spider Pavilion returns Sept. 20 through Dec. 6, featuring orb weavers, tarantulas, jumping spiders and other arachnids while highlighting the important role spiders play in local ecosystems.

The museum’s event calendar features several annual favorites.

Prehistoric Fight Night returns Aug. 21, pairing graphic novelist and science communicator Ted Rechlin with museum experts for discussions comparing prehistoric predators from different eras. Visitors will also have opportunities to examine fossils rarely displayed to the public and participate in hands-on activities.

Dino Fest returns Aug. 30 with presentations by scientists from the museum’s Dinosaur Institute, fossil displays, educational demonstrations and family activities celebrating the prehistoric world.

Additional programming includes Mindfulness Mornings on Aug. 22 and Sept. 13, offering yoga and sound bath sessions before museum hours, and a Sept. 25 conversation and workshop with acclaimed Chicana muralist Barbara Carrasco inspired by her landmark work, “LA History: A Mexican Perspective.” The museum will also celebrate Día de los Muertos on Nov. 5 with live music, art activities and an interpretive ofrenda honoring the traditions of remembering loved ones.

Visitors can also enjoy year-round offerings including “Dinosaur Encounters,” featuring life-size dinosaur puppets, the museum’s “T. REX 3D” giant-screen film, weekly “Animals Alive!” presentations and “Collections Revealed,” which provides behind-the-scenes access to specimens that support ongoing scientific research. Guided NHM Insider Tours also offer visitors an opportunity to explore fossil preparation labs and museum collections not normally open to the public.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is located at 900 Exposition Blvd.

For information, visit nhm.org.