(credit: istock)

11,000 years ago the Los Angeles area thronged with exotic mammals that only a masterful Hollywood CGI-specialist could conjure up today—huge furry creatures hearkening back to a time of legends.In time, the remnants from that mysterious world have emerged from deep gurgling pools of smelly, naturally-occurring tar. Today, we call this peculiar place the La Brea Tar Pits. Despite the grim name, you’ll find a place that will spur your imagination of a prehistoric lost world where the saber-toothed cat goes on a hunt, the towering wooly mammoth casually grazes beneath the Hollywood Hills and the largest wolf—ever to roam the planet—commands a primordial kingdom.

Amazingly, it’s all right here in L.A. between Wilshire Blvd and 6th St. See active excavations. Observe a real-life paleontologist at work. Explore a museum full of fascinating fossils and kid-friendly exhibits. Whether you’re ready to spend a day or just 30 minutes, La Brea Tar Pits promise a delightful time.

Leaving from Ventura Blvd in the Los Angeles Neighborhood of Encino, you can expect to drive about 20 miles. Follow the San Diego Freeway ( I-405 ) towards Los Angeles to Wilshire Blvd. and head East. You can get information about planning your first trip to the La Brea Tar Pits on their official website.

Although any Mercedes-Benz will enhance this uniquely L.A. experience, imagine how much fun you’d have if you were to take the family and their friends a big and roomy 7-passenger 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV.

To find out more about today’s featured destination, visit the La Brea Tar Pits with parking located at the corner of Curson Ave. and 6th St.

This destination was selected by Mercedes-Benz of Encino in Los Angeles and features the Mercedes-Benz 2013 GL-Class Luxury SUV.

By Carl Rempel