
Museum of Natural Sciences
Explore prehistoric worlds, journey through space, and discover Earth's diverse ecosystems with captivating exhibits and immersive planetarium shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Museum of Natural Sciences
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore prehistoric worlds, journey through space, and discover Earth's diverse ecosystems with captivating exhibits and immersive planetarium shows.
"A fantastic place for families with impressive dinosaur fossils and engaging live animals!"

Check for Free Admission Days
Some natural science museums offer free admission on specific days or evenings, like Tuesdays. Always check their website! :ticket:
Look for Discount Programs
Many museums offer discounts for EBT/SNAP cardholders, military, or students. Ask about programs like Museums4All for significant savings. :moneywithwings:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Hall
Paleontology Exhibits
Marvel at a vast collection of dinosaur fossils, from towering skeletons to intricate fossilized remains. A must-see for any dino enthusiast!

Burke Baker Planetarium
Planetarium
Journey through the cosmos with immersive shows that explore stars, planets, and the wonders of space. An educational and awe-inspiring experience.
Hall of Paleontology
Paleontology Exhibits
Explore the prehistoric world with an extensive display of fossils and ancient life. Discover the evolution of species and Earth's ancient past.

Live Animal Exhibits
Various Halls
Encounter fascinating live creatures, from hatching chicks to unique reptiles. A captivating experience for all ages, offering a glimpse into biodiversity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibits
Consider Weekday Mornings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Free Admission Days
Some natural science museums offer free admission on specific days or evenings, like Tuesdays. Always check their website! :ticket:
Look for Discount Programs
Many museums offer discounts for EBT/SNAP cardholders, military, or students. Ask about programs like Museums4All for significant savings. :moneywithwings:
Book Planetarium Shows Separately
Planetarium shows often require separate tickets. Book these in advance, especially for popular shows or during peak times. :star2:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all the exhibits at a natural science museum. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Free Admission Days
Some natural science museums offer free admission on specific days or evenings, like Tuesdays. Always check their website! :ticket:
Look for Discount Programs
Many museums offer discounts for EBT/SNAP cardholders, military, or students. Ask about programs like Museums4All for significant savings. :moneywithwings:
Book Planetarium Shows Separately
Planetarium shows often require separate tickets. Book these in advance, especially for popular shows or during peak times. :star2:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all the exhibits at a natural science museum. :athletic_shoe:
Utilize Combo Tickets
If visiting multiple attractions like a museum and aquarium, look for discounted combo tickets to save money. :money_bag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the extensive dinosaur fossil collections and engaging live animal exhibits, making it a hit for families. The planetarium shows are frequently highlighted as a captivating experience. However, some find parts of the museum under restoration or lacking translations, and the overall size can be perceived as small by some.
"You get a good overview of the prehistoric world with a lot of fossils and other finding on display. There is also a temporary exhibition and because the museum is quite small it’s not as draining. With the Valencia tourist card you are granted free access. When visiting the museum try to take time to see the park around it as well."
Paula Kütt
"Currently a lot of it seems to be under restoration, and a lot of the rest is reading rather than objects to look at. Interesting display on memory with interactive elements. They also have incubators hatching chicks which is cute. Building is lovely. Parts were only in Spanish with no translations (the bit on Nobel prize winners)."
Alice Cantor
"Free entry, nice place to visit to cool down and see sculptures and paintings."
Tibor Kmeto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museum of Natural Sciences is typically accessible by public transportation, ride-sharing services, and car. Parking availability and cost can vary, so it's advisable to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on directions and parking options. Some visitors have noted concerns about open-air parking, so researching the immediate area's safety is also recommended.
Yes, most natural science museums offer parking facilities. However, it's important to note that parking can be open-air and may have associated fees. Consider ride-sharing or public transport if you have concerns about leaving your vehicle unattended with luggage.
Many natural science museums are well-served by public transportation. Check local transit maps or use a journey planner app to find bus or train routes that stop near the museum. This can be a cost-effective and convenient way to visit.
Some cities offer park and ride facilities where you can leave your car and take public transport into the city center, closer to the museum. Research local transit authority websites for available park and ride locations and routes.
If arriving from out of town, consider using a combination of inter-city transport (like a train or bus) and then local public transport or a taxi/rideshare to reach the museum. This can often be more economical than driving and parking in a busy city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary by museum. Many offer free general admission on certain days or evenings, while special exhibits or planetarium shows may require separate tickets. Look for discounts for students, seniors, or families.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular exhibits or planetarium shows. This often saves time and guarantees entry.
Absolutely! Many museums offer discounts for EBT/SNAP cardholders, military personnel, students, and seniors. Programs like Museums4All can provide significant savings.
Planetarium shows typically require separate tickets and are not always included with general admission. It's best to book these in advance online to secure your spot.
Re-entry policies can differ. Generally, most museums allow re-entry on the same day, but it's wise to confirm with the museum staff or check their website before leaving.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the impressive dinosaur halls with their towering skeletons, the immersive planetarium shows, and any live animal exhibits. The paleontology section and exhibits on local ecosystems are also highly recommended.
Yes, natural science museums are fantastic for kids! They often feature interactive displays, live animals, and engaging exhibits on dinosaurs and space that captivate young minds.
A typical visit can range from 2-4 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you plan to see special exhibits or planetarium shows. Some visitors find smaller museums less draining.
Many museums offer guided tours, which can enhance your understanding of the exhibits. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or in advance online.
Most natural science museums are designed to be accessible. Look for information on wheelchair access, elevators, and accessible restrooms on their website.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many natural science museums have on-site cafes or restaurants offering snacks, light meals, and beverages. Check the museum's website for operating hours and menu options.
Policies on outside food and drinks vary. Some museums allow it in designated areas, while others do not. It's best to confirm their policy before your visit.
Museums are often located in areas with numerous restaurants and cafes. A quick search on your phone or asking museum staff can help you find nearby dining establishments.
Museum cafes usually offer a range of options, from sandwiches and salads to pastries and coffee. Some may also have kid-friendly meal deals.
Prices at museum cafes can be slightly higher than off-site options. Bringing your own snacks or planning to eat before or after your visit can be a more budget-friendly approach.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most natural science museums, but flash photography is often prohibited to protect exhibits. Always check for specific signage or ask staff.
Be mindful of 'no photography' signs in certain areas or for specific artifacts. Flash photography is almost always discouraged. Professional photography or videography usually requires prior permission.
The dinosaur halls, the planetarium dome, and any visually striking exhibits like large fossils or dioramas are great photo opportunities. Look for unique architectural features of the museum building itself.
Yes, phone cameras are generally permitted for personal use. Just remember to disable your flash and be respectful of other visitors and the exhibits.
Exhibits featuring large dinosaur skeletons, intricate fossil displays, and immersive dioramas are usually very photogenic. The Gilder Center at the American Museum of Natural History, for example, is known for its stunning architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking planetarium shows that are geared towards children for an extra dose of wonder. When planning your visit, aim for weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds, which can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Pack snacks and drinks if the museum allows, or be prepared to utilize the on-site cafe for a convenient meal.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own lunch and snacks if the museum permits outside food, as on-site dining can be pricey. Prioritize exhibits that are included with general admission and decide if special ticketed events, like planetarium shows, are worth the extra cost for your budget. Exploring the museum's grounds or nearby parks can also be a free way to extend your visit.
🚀 Space Enthusiasts
Many museums also feature dedicated halls or temporary exhibitions on space and astronomy. These can include models of spacecraft, information on celestial bodies, and even meteorites. Booking your planetarium tickets in advance is crucial, as these shows are often very popular and can sell out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wonders of Paleontology
Beyond dinosaurs, these exhibits often cover other prehistoric life forms, including ancient mammals, marine reptiles, and early plant life. You might find displays on the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic period, or even earlier eras, complete with detailed information about the environments these creatures lived in. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of life's history on our planet, making it an educational and awe-inspiring experience for all ages.
For those particularly interested in paleontology museums, look for institutions that specialize in this field or have extensive dedicated halls. These can offer even more in-depth explorations, sometimes featuring rare specimens or cutting-edge research. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as these exhibits can be extensive and require a good amount of walking to fully appreciate.
The Magic of the Planetarium
Many planetariums offer shows tailored for different age groups, ensuring that both children and adults can enjoy and learn from the experience. Some popular shows focus on the solar system, the search for exoplanets, or the history of space exploration. The visual and auditory spectacle can be truly breathtaking, making you feel as though you're traveling through space.
It's important to note that planetarium tickets are often sold separately from general museum admission and can sell out quickly, especially for popular shows. Booking in advance online is highly recommended to secure your preferred showtime and avoid disappointment.
Engaging with Live Animals
These exhibits offer a fantastic opportunity for visitors, especially children, to observe animals up close and learn about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation needs. You might encounter anything from hatching chicks in an incubator to fascinating reptiles like king snakes.
When visiting these exhibits, remember to observe quietly and respectfully. Avoid tapping on glass or making loud noises that could disturb the animals. Many museums also have educational staff or volunteers present to answer questions and provide insights into the lives of their animal residents.
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