Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Explore towering dinosaur skeletons, immersive worlds, and ancient forests at this Atlanta natural history museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore towering dinosaur skeletons, immersive worlds, and ancient forests at this Atlanta natural history museum.
"The size of the skeletons in the main atrium is hard to put into words."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Avoid long queues, especially on busy days.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the outdoor trails. Wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giants of the Past
Great Hall
Towering dinosaur skeletons, including a massive Argentinosaurus, dominate the stunning 3-story atrium.

Invisible Worlds
Richard Gilder Center
An immersive, multi-sensory experience that explores the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Outdoor Nature Trails
Fernbank Forest
Explore 75 acres of protected, old-growth forest with walking paths and educational signage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Dinosaurs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Avoid long queues, especially on busy days.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the outdoor trails. Wear comfy shoes!
🦋 Butterfly Room Fun
Don't miss the chance to see live butterflies in a tropical environment. It's a unique experience!
🌳 Explore the Forest
If weather permits, the outdoor nature trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Avoid long queues, especially on busy days.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the outdoor trails. Wear comfy shoes!
🦋 Butterfly Room Fun
Don't miss the chance to see live butterflies in a tropical environment. It's a unique experience!
🌳 Explore the Forest
If weather permits, the outdoor nature trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
🎬 Catch a 3D Film
The museum's 3D theater shows educational films daily. Check the schedule for showtimes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fernbank Museum is praised for its impressive dinosaur skeletons and engaging 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit, making it a hit with families. However, some visitors feel certain exhibits are outdated and could benefit from modernization and better maintenance, suggesting a need for refreshed displays and improved upkeep.
"I’ve loved coming here since I was a kid! The exhibits are impressive, they have different interactive exhibits for kids, a great 3D theater with educational short films every day, and sometimes they have live animal encounters. When the weather’s nice we love exploring outside!"
Maggie
"Stopped here on a monday. The size of the skeletons in the main atrium is hard to put into words. Makes you appreciate how insignificant humans are in the context of geologic time. This would be great place to take kids. There's 3D nature documentaries included with your ticket. Lots of kids play areas. Lots to see."
Jared Hollins
"This place is very cool, though the inside is pretty small compared to other museums. The kid area upstairs is super fun and we ended spending a large amount of time playing there. We didn't get to explore any of the outside areas due to weather but it was fun for an afternoon."
T Horowitz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fernbank Museum is located at 767 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30307. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop nearby.
Yes, Fernbank Museum offers on-site parking for visitors. There is typically a fee associated with parking, so it's good to factor that into your budget.
Several MARTA bus routes serve the area around Fernbank Museum. Check the MARTA website for the most current routes and schedules to plan your trip.
Fernbank Museum is located a short drive from downtown Atlanta, typically about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. It's a convenient excursion from the city center.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a popular and convenient way to reach Fernbank Museum, with designated drop-off and pick-up points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but general admission typically includes access to the main exhibits and the 3D theater. It's recommended to check the official Fernbank Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing and any special exhibit fees.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the museum's entrance. However, buying tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially secure your preferred entry slot, especially during peak times.
Fernbank Museum often offers discounts for seniors, students, and children. They may also have special offers for members or through partnerships. Check their website for details on current discount programs.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and by day of the week. It's best to consult the Fernbank Museum's official website for the most accurate and current operating hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, timed entry can be a good strategy to manage crowds. It's advisable to check if timed entry is required or recommended when purchasing your tickets online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The towering dinosaur skeletons in the Great Hall are a major highlight. Don't miss the immersive 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit and the Georgia's Wild Wonders section showcasing local wildlife.
Yes, Fernbank Museum offers plenty for adults, including impressive dinosaur exhibits, the 'Invisible Worlds' experience, and the natural beauty of the outdoor forest. The Mayan exhibit is also a draw for those interested in history.
'Invisible Worlds' is an immersive, multi-sensory exhibit that uses stunning visuals and soundscapes to explore the interconnectedness of life, from microscopic organisms to vast ecosystems.
Yes, Fernbank Museum features several interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages, particularly in areas like the 'Forces of Nature' exhibit and the children's science lab.
Absolutely! Fernbank boasts 75 acres of protected outdoor space, including walking trails through an old-growth forest. It's a wonderful way to experience nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Fernbank Museum has a cafe that offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. It's a convenient option for refueling during your visit.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, there may be designated areas for picnics, especially if you are visiting the outdoor spaces. It's best to confirm their policy.
The cafe typically offers a range of options, including sandwiches, salads, snacks, and drinks. The menu can change, but it's usually geared towards quick and family-friendly meals.
Yes, the area surrounding Fernbank Museum has various dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. You can find diverse cuisines within a short drive.
Museum cafes can sometimes be pricier than off-site options. While reviews suggest the food is good, budgeting for it or bringing your own snacks for before/after your visit might be wise.
📸 📸 Photography
Personal photography is generally allowed inside Fernbank Museum for non-commercial use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always check for signage.
The Great Hall with the dinosaur skeletons is an iconic photo spot. The 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit offers visually stunning backdrops, and the outdoor forest trails provide beautiful natural scenery.
Tripods and professional photography equipment are usually not permitted without prior authorization to avoid obstructing other visitors and damaging exhibits. Check the museum's specific policy.
Besides flash photography, some exhibits might have specific 'no photo' signs. Be mindful of these restrictions and respect the museum's guidelines.
You can capture impressive shots of dinosaur fossils, intricate displays of flora and fauna, immersive exhibit environments, and the natural beauty of the surrounding forest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the indoor attractions, the outdoor nature trails offer a chance for kids to explore and burn energy in a safe, natural environment. The 3D theater also screens engaging educational films that are perfect for younger audiences. Don't forget to check for any live animal encounters that might be scheduled during your visit, as these are always a highlight for kids.
Solo Travelers & Adults
For those who appreciate natural history and science, the outdoor forest trails provide a peaceful and educational retreat. You can explore the ancient trees and learn about the local ecosystem at your own pace. The museum's focus on natural sciences ensures there's plenty to engage a curious adult mind.
Budget-Conscious Visitors
To maximize value, focus on the core exhibits like the dinosaur hall and the 'Invisible Worlds' experience. If the weather is good, the outdoor forest trails are a free and wonderful addition to your visit, offering a chance to connect with nature without extra cost. Pack your own snacks or plan for a meal at the cafe to manage food expenses.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Dinosaurs of Fernbank
Beyond the massive skeletons, Fernbank often incorporates detailed information about dinosaur discoveries, paleontology research, and the environments these creatures inhabited. While some reviews suggest certain exhibits could benefit from updates, the core dinosaur collection remains a powerful draw. The museum's commitment to showcasing these prehistoric marvels makes it a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
For those interested in the science behind the fossils, Fernbank provides context on how paleontologists excavate, study, and reconstruct these ancient beings. The museum's approach aims to educate visitors about the ongoing process of scientific discovery and the ever-evolving understanding of dinosaur life. This blend of impressive visuals and educational content makes the dinosaur exhibits a truly memorable part of the Fernbank experience.
Exploring 'Invisible Worlds'
Visitors can expect to be surrounded by dynamic visuals, engaging soundscapes, and interactive elements that bring the natural world to life in unexpected ways. The exhibit aims to reveal the hidden patterns and processes that govern life, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the planet's biodiversity. It's an experience that appeals to a sense of wonder, showcasing the intricate relationships that sustain all living things.
This exhibit is a testament to Fernbank's effort to stay current with museum technology and educational approaches. It offers a fresh perspective on natural history, moving beyond static displays to create a truly engaging and memorable experience. 'Invisible Worlds' is a key reason why Fernbank continues to be a relevant and exciting destination for those interested in science and the natural world.
The Natural Beauty of Fernbank Forest
Exploring the forest trails offers a chance to see native flora and fauna, learn about the importance of conservation, and enjoy a peaceful walk away from the museum's indoor exhibits. The trails are generally well-maintained, making them accessible for a leisurely stroll. It’s a perfect complement to the indoor exhibits, providing a holistic experience of natural history.
Many visitors highlight the outdoor trails as a favorite part of their visit, especially during pleasant weather. It’s an opportunity to connect with the local environment and appreciate the biodiversity that exists just outside the museum walls. The forest adds a significant dimension to Fernbank, making it more than just an indoor attraction.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit