Marvel at Archie, the world's tallest fully mounted Columbian mammoth fossil. At 14-feet, he's the central fossil in a parade of mammoths and mastodons in the museum's iconic Elephant Hall.
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University of Nebraska State Museum Morrill Hall

4.7
·1k reviews·Lincoln, United States

Explore Nebraska's rich natural history, from colossal mammoths to live bee colonies, at this engaging university museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Marvel at Archie, the world's tallest fully mounted Columbian mammoth fossil. At 14-feet, he's the central fossil in a parade of mammoths and mastodons in the museum's iconic Elephant Hall.

University of Nebraska State Museum Morrill Hall

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Nebraska's rich natural history, from colossal mammoths to live bee colonies, at this engaging university museum.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Morrill Hall was an amazing experience! As adults, we took our out of town family to this museum & we LOVED it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Plan for 4 Floors!

Don't miss any exhibits; there are four floors packed with fascinating displays. :world_map:

Interactive Fun for All

Engaging exhibits make it fun for teens and adults, not just kids. :smiley:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Archie the Dinosaur

Archie the Dinosaur

Entrance Hall

Stand in awe of Archie, a colossal Columbian mammoth skeleton, greeting you at the museum's entrance.

Fossil Halls

Fossil Halls

Various Floors

Explore the 'proboscidean capital of the world' with incredible fossil displays, including saber-toothed cats.

Interactive Bee Exhibit

Interactive Bee Exhibit

Ground Floor

Witness a live observation hive and learn about the fascinating world of bees and their importance.

Nebraska Biodiversity

Nebraska Biodiversity

Various Floors

Discover the rich tapestry of life in Nebraska, from ancient fossils to modern-day flora and fauna.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Morrill Hall

Morrill Hall, the University of Nebraska State Museum, offers a vast exploration of Nebraska's natural history. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to see the highlights, especially if you want to experience the planetarium. Check their website for current hours and any special exhibits before you go.

Navigating the Museum

With four floors of exhibits, it's easy to get lost in the wonders of Morrill Hall. Consider starting on the top floor and working your way down, or focus on specific areas like the dinosaur fossils or the interactive bee exhibit. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking!

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday Afternoons
Why
School groups usually gone
Crowd
Medium
When
During Special Exhibits
Why
Unique learning opportunities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Lincoln, Nebraska, is the capital city of the state and home to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a prominent institution known for its research and academic programs. With its vibrant cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and parks, Lincoln offers a blend of Midwestern charm and modern amenities. #lincoln #lincolnnebraska #nebraska
@clipguesser
8.2K likes • 72.6K views

Plan for 4 Floors!

Don't miss any exhibits; there are four floors packed with fascinating displays. :world_map:

Interactive Fun for All

Engaging exhibits make it fun for teens and adults, not just kids. :smiley:

A deranged leftist was seen sitting near a fountain at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with signs hanging from his table that read, “Charlie deserved it, debate me,” causing an angry student to relocate the man into the water fountain.
@lilrabbit265
6.4K likes • 216.8K views
University of Nebraska State Museum - Morrill Hall
the_ramsfam
2 likes • 38 views

Planetarium Option

Consider adding a planetarium show for an extra cosmic experience. :star2:

Saber-Tooth Cat Fascination

The Barbourofelis display is a must-see for fossil enthusiasts. :cat2:

Loved this interactive display for Barbourofelis at the University of Nebraska State Museum Morrill Hall! . Barbourofelis is an extinct genus of large, predatory, feliform carnivoran mammals of the family Barbourofelidae (false saber-tooth cats). The genus was endemic to North America and Eurasia during the Miocene until its extinction during the Tortonian, living from 13.6 to 7.3 Ma. . #barbouro...
paleoanalysis
39.4K likes • 924.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Plan for 4 Floors!

Don't miss any exhibits; there are four floors packed with fascinating displays. :world_map:

Interactive Fun for All

Engaging exhibits make it fun for teens and adults, not just kids. :smiley:

Planetarium Option

Consider adding a planetarium show for an extra cosmic experience. :star2:

Saber-Tooth Cat Fascination

The Barbourofelis display is a must-see for fossil enthusiasts. :cat2:

Bee Lab Buzz

Check out the live bee observation hive for a unique glimpse into their world. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Morrill Hall for its extensive and engaging exhibits, particularly its impressive fossil collections and interactive displays that appeal to all ages. The museum is noted for its cleanliness and the kindness of its staff, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families and adults alike. While some visitors may not have time to see everything, the overall experience is highly positive, highlighting its value as a significant natural history museum.

"Had some time while attending a conference and stopped in to this museum. It is a pretty large museum for being a university natural history museum. There's a really great selection of exhibits and I found it really interesting, even as someone unfamiliar with what animals are native to Nebraska. I gained a really great understanding of Nebraska. The museum has done a good job being interactive without being too focused on children. Kids would really enjoy this museum but adults will too! There is a planetarium however I did not do this."

Spencer Owen

"Morrill Hall was an amazing experience! As adults, we took our out of town family to this museum & we LOVED it! We didn’t even get to go through it all because there was so much to see & we had a time limit because of previous engagements. In the end, there are so many exhibits to see, the staff members were very kind & helpful, & the facility was incredibly clean! To top it all off, there was a basket with free to use, tampons, pads, & small paper bags for sanitary products. This means a lot to me, as a female, this shows the level of quality these staff members show. Thank you Morrill Hall!"

Alyssa Penner

"Morril Hall has always been a favorite place for my family to go. Now my youngest grandson enjoys his visits. He is 3-1/2 so we go thru the exhibits pretty quickly and that's ok."

Rene' Chandler

What People Like

Impressive fossil collections
Interactive exhibits for all ages
Kind and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming to see all in one visit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Morrill Hall is located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. Visitors can typically find parking in nearby garages or lots, though it's advisable to check the university's parking regulations. Public transportation options are also available within Lincoln. TikTok

Parking near Morrill Hall can be challenging on campus. The university offers several parking garages and surface lots, but fees may apply. It's recommended to check the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's parking services website for the most up-to-date information on availability and costs. TikTok

Yes, Morrill Hall is located in the heart of Lincoln, making it accessible by foot from many downtown hotels and attractions. The walk offers a chance to see the city's charm. TikTok

If you're visiting Lincoln, driving to the UNL campus and utilizing campus parking is a common approach. Alternatively, ride-sharing services can drop you directly at the museum. TikTok

Lincoln's public transit system serves the university area. You can check the official Lincoln transportation website for specific bus routes and schedules that stop near Morrill Hall. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Morrill Hall is generally affordable, with specific pricing for adults, seniors, and children. Check the official museum website for the most current admission rates and any potential discounts. Instagram

Morrill Hall is typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Sundays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Always verify hours on their official website before your visit. Instagram

While advance booking isn't always required, it's a good idea, especially for groups or during peak times, to ensure entry and potentially save time. Check the museum's website for online ticket purchasing options. Instagram

Information on free admission days is not widely advertised, but it's always worth checking the museum's official website or contacting them directly for any special promotions or community days. Instagram

The planetarium often requires a separate ticket or fee in addition to general museum admission. It's best to confirm this when purchasing your tickets or on the museum's website. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the massive Archie mammoth skeleton, extensive fossil collections (especially proboscideans and saber-toothed cats), and the live bee observation hive. The museum also showcases Nebraska's biodiversity. Instagram+2

Absolutely! Children will love the interactive displays, the giant dinosaur fossils, and the bee exhibit. It's a great place for families to learn together. Reddit

To fully appreciate the exhibits, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you wish to see a planetarium show, add an extra hour. Reddit

Yes, the museum is designed to be engaging for all ages. Many exhibits offer interactive components that appeal to adults, providing a deeper understanding of natural history. Reddit

Morrill Hall boasts one of the most impressive collections of fossil proboscideans (mammoths, mastodons, and elephants) in the world, earning it this title. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Morrill Hall does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are advised to plan for meals before or after their visit, with many dining options available on the UNL campus or in downtown Lincoln. TikTok

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the exhibits. There may be designated areas for consumption, but it's best to check with the museum staff upon arrival. TikTok

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus and the surrounding downtown Lincoln area offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit all tastes and budgets. TikTok

Yes, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus has several dining halls and cafes that may be accessible to the public. These can be a convenient option for a quick bite. TikTok

Downtown Lincoln and the areas surrounding the university have numerous family-friendly restaurants, including pizza places, diners, and casual eateries. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside Morrill Hall, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the exhibits. Always look for signage or ask museum staff if you're unsure. Instagram

Video recording for personal use is typically allowed, but again, without flash. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways. Instagram

The massive Archie mammoth skeleton, the detailed fossil displays, and the live bee observation hive are all highly photogenic. The architecture of the building itself is also quite striking. Instagram+1

Weekday mornings tend to have fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed shots. Natural light can be good in certain areas, but be aware of the museum's lighting conditions. Instagram

Tripods and professional photography equipment are often restricted inside museums to prevent damage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the museum's specific photography policy beforehand. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Morrill Hall is a fantastic choice for families! The interactive exhibits are a huge hit with children, keeping them engaged and entertained for hours. From the towering Archie the mammoth skeleton to the fascinating live bee observation hive, there's something to spark every child's curiosity. InstagramReddit

With four floors of discovery, you can easily spend a significant portion of your day here. The museum is designed to be educational without being overwhelming, making it a perfect outing for younger children and teenagers alike. Don't forget to check if the planetarium shows are running, as they offer an extra layer of wonder for the whole family. Reddit

🤓 Fossil and Paleontology Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for ancient life, Morrill Hall is an absolute must-visit. Dubbed the 'proboscidean capital of the world,' the museum boasts an unparalleled collection of mammoth and mastodon fossils, including the impressive Archie skeleton. Instagram

Explore the saber-toothed cat exhibits and delve into the prehistoric ecosystems of North America. The detailed displays and informative context provided by the museum make it an incredibly rewarding experience for anyone fascinated by paleontology and the deep history of life on Earth. Instagram

📚 Students and Academics

As part of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Morrill Hall offers a wealth of educational resources. Students can explore exhibits that complement their studies in biology, geology, and history. The live bee lab is a particular draw for entomology and environmental science students. Instagram

The museum's extensive fossil collections provide valuable insights for paleontology and evolutionary biology research. It's a great place for students to gain a deeper understanding of Nebraska's natural heritage and the scientific processes that shape our world. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Wonders of Nebraska's Past

Morrill Hall is a treasure trove for anyone interested in paleontology and the ancient history of Nebraska. The museum proudly calls itself the 'proboscidean capital of the world' due to its exceptional collection of mammoth and mastodon fossils. Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale of Archie, a life-sized Columbian mammoth skeleton that dominates the entrance hall, offering an immediate sense of the prehistoric giants that once roamed this land. Instagram

Beyond the mammoths, the museum features a remarkable array of fossilized creatures, including the fearsome Barbourofelis, a false saber-tooth cat. These exhibits provide a vivid glimpse into the diverse ecosystems that existed millions of years ago. The interactive nature of many displays ensures that learning about these ancient animals is engaging for all ages, making it a standout experience for fossil enthusiasts. InstagramReddit

Exploring these fossil halls is like stepping back in time. The detailed displays and informative panels help visitors understand the evolutionary journey of these magnificent creatures and the geological periods they inhabited. It’s a powerful reminder of the dynamic history of life on Earth, right here in the heart of Nebraska.

Biodiversity and Living Exhibits

Beyond its impressive fossil collection, Morrill Hall also delves into the rich biodiversity of Nebraska, both past and present. The museum showcases a wide range of exhibits dedicated to the state's native flora and fauna, offering insights into the ecosystems that thrive here today. This focus on contemporary life provides a fascinating contrast to the ancient creatures on display. TikTok

A particularly captivating exhibit is the live bee observation hive, managed by the UNL Bee Lab. This allows visitors to witness the intricate workings of a bee colony up close, observing bees as they forage, communicate, and tend to their young. It's an educational and mesmerizing experience that highlights the crucial role of pollinators in our environment. Instagram

These living exhibits, combined with displays on local wildlife and plant life, create a comprehensive picture of Nebraska's natural heritage. They underscore the museum's commitment to educating the public about the importance of conservation and understanding the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems.

A Family-Friendly Educational Hub

Morrill Hall has consistently been praised for its ability to engage visitors of all ages, making it a top destination for families. The museum strikes a perfect balance between educational content and interactive fun, ensuring that even the youngest visitors remain captivated. Teenagers, often a challenging demographic to impress, have been noted for their deep involvement with the exhibits. Reddit

The museum's commitment to inclusivity is evident in thoughtful touches, such as the provision of sanitary products in restrooms, which has been highlighted as a sign of exceptional care and quality by visitors. This attention to detail contributes to a welcoming and comfortable experience for everyone. Reddit

With four floors packed with diverse displays, from colossal skeletons to live insects, Morrill Hall offers a rich and rewarding experience that fosters curiosity and a love for learning about the natural world. It’s a place where memories are made and knowledge is gained, making it a highly recommended stop for any family visiting Lincoln.

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