La Brea Tar Pits Slated for $240M Renovation Ahead of 2028 Olympics

The proposed project aims to transform the world-famous fossil site and museum into a state-of-the-art research and educational hub.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:31pm

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The Natural History Museum in Los Angeles is planning a $240 million renovation of the iconic La Brea Tar Pits, one of the world's most significant Ice Age fossil sites. The multi-year "Reimagining La Brea Tar Pits" project will create new labs, exhibition halls, outdoor educational spaces, and a 13-acre park with native Ice Age plants. Half of the funding has already been raised, with the remainder coming from an ongoing fundraising effort.

Why it matters

The La Brea Tar Pits are a globally renowned paleontological site that has yielded millions of fossils, providing invaluable insights into the Ice Age history of Los Angeles and the planet. The proposed transformation will allow the museum to better showcase this scientific treasure and engage the public, especially ahead of the 2028 Olympics when Los Angeles will be in the global spotlight.

The details

The $240 million renovation, dubbed the Samuel Oschin Global Center for Ice Age Research, will include state-of-the-art labs, exhibition halls, indoor and outdoor educational spaces, and a 13-acre park with native Ice Age plants. The project will preserve and expand the museum's research and exhibition capabilities, while also introducing new features like a 1-kilometer pedestrian loop connecting excavation sites, research facilities, and green spaces.

  • The proposed multi-year renovation project is expected to be completed in time for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
  • Half of the $240 million in funding has already been raised, with an ongoing effort to secure the remaining amount.

The players

La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

A world-famous paleontological site and museum in Hancock Park, Los Angeles, considered one of the most significant Ice Age fossil sites on Earth.

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation

The foundation that has provided the largest donation in the museum's history to fund the "Reimagining La Brea Tar Pits" project.

Lynda Oschin

The chairman of the board and secretary of the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation, who believes that world-class science should be at the heart of the Los Angeles community.

Amy Hood

The director of communications for the Natural History Museum, who says the renovation project will help tell the story of Los Angeles' Ice Age past.

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What they’re saying

“Los Angeles has always been a city of imagination and possibility. Supporting research at La Brea Tar Pits reflects my husband's love for this city and our shared belief that world-class science should be at the heart of our community, where everyone can engage with it.”

— Lynda Oschin, Chairman of the board and secretary of the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation

“Through this work, I know the lessons of Ice Age Los Angeles will inspire countless scientists and young students here and globally.”

— Lynda Oschin, Chairman of the board and secretary of the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation

“It's important to tell the story of Los Angeles from 60,000 years ago to today.”

— Amy Hood, Director of communications, Natural History Museum

What’s next

The proposed renovation project is expected to be completed in time for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

The takeaway

The transformation of the La Brea Tar Pits will not only preserve and expand its world-class research and exhibition capabilities, but also engage the public in understanding Los Angeles' rich Ice Age history and its relevance to the present day, just in time for the global spotlight of the 2028 Olympics.