The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) does an extraordinary job in giving visitors of all ages a "big picture" of our planet. The museum houses one of the world's top collections of natural and cultural history. NHM protects more than 35 million objects, some dating back 4.5 billion years. Many are displayed within the Dinosaur, Mammal, Bird, and Insect Halls, as well as in the Discovery Center, interactive Nature Lab, Gem and Mineral Rooms, and Nature Gardens.Best and worst time to go to the Natural History Museum of Los AngelesNot surprisingly, the museum is crowded on weekends, holidays, and during the summer. Weekdays can be crowded, too, with school field trips. The best times to visit NHM are weekday afternoons, after 1:30 p.m., and weekend mornings at 9:30 a.m.Must See/Do at the Natural History Museum of Los AngelesThe Natural History Museum has a wealth of "must-sees" starting with the Halls of North American and African Mammals, with dioramas of animals in their "realistic" settings. The 14,000 square foot Dinosaur Hall is stunning. Be sure not to miss the Nature Lab on Level G with live animals, including frogs, turtles, snakes and rats.Admission to the Natural History Museum of Los AngelesThe museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (except New Year's Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Admission ranges from $5 to mid-teens; children 2 and under are free. Specialty combo tickets, which include the seasonal Butterfly and Spider Pavilions, are higher.How to get to the Natural History Museum of Los AngelesThe Natural History Museum is located in Exposition Park at 900 Exposition Boulevard between Vermont Avenue and Figueroa Street. Paid parking is available (cash only) at the Museum's Car Park (Exposition Blvd. and Bill Robertson Lane). The Expo Rail Line stops right at the museum (exit at the Expo/Vermont stop).Food at the Natural History Museum of Los AngelesThe NHM Grill on Level G of the museum serves burgers and grilled sandwiches, salads, wraps, soups and pre-packaged snacks and drinks. You can dine inside or on the outside patio.Insider tips for visitors to the Natural History Museum of Los AngelesFree admission is offered on the first Tuesday of each month, except in July and August. If you take Metro to the Natural History Museum, show your ticket or pass and receive $1.25 off an adult admission. The daily "Hidden in Plain Sight" tours offer fun hidden factoids that you might miss-like the predatory wolves hidden in the plains bison diorama.Author's bio: Lori Huck works in television development as well as writes on entertainment and the arts. She's a fan of the vibrant arts scene in Los Angeles and is a member of many museums and arts organizations.