About
See Spider Pavilion on view this weekend.
It is a rare chance to see garden-spider webs up close, some close to ten feet across. The 2026 pavilion is open to the public from September 20 to December 6.
What to expect
A short walk through an outdoor pavilion full of webs, then an indoor den with enclosed habitats. It includes live animals.
Good to know
- On Saturday, September 19 the museum closes at 3pm because of nearby events and road closures.
- Member previews run September 18–19; the public opening is Sunday, September 20.
- NHM members get in free.
- Expo Park/USC station on the Metro E Line is next to the museum.
Common questions
When is Spider Pavilion open?
Spider Pavilion runs Sunday, September 20 through Sunday, December 6, 2026. Museum hours are 9:30am-5pm, with closures on the first Tuesday of each month and Thanksgiving.
How much does Spider Pavilion cost?
The pavilion costs $10 in addition to museum general admission. Admission to the pavilion and museum is free for NHM members.
Are the spiders loose inside the pavilion?
Orbweavers live on webs in an open-air garden beside the visitor walkway. Tarantulas and other large spiders are displayed separately in enclosed terrariums.
How many spiders can visitors see?
The museum released approximately 300 spiders and says the pavilion contains 10 to 15 species, depending on availability.
Is the Spider Pavilion dangerous?
The museum describes the experience as safe and says the spiders generally remain quietly on their webs. Visitors should observe them without poking, prodding, or grabbing them.