Welcome to the Anniston Museum, a place that brings history and science to life. The museum is nestled in the heart of Anniston, Alabama, surrounded by a lush landscape that adds to the charm of the place. Anniston Museum is an exceptional spot for adults, children, and students, providing an engaging environment that is both educational and fun. From the historic exhibits to the interactive science exhibits, there is something for everyone at the Anniston Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that shed light on the past and present, and its exhibits showcase the natural wonders of Alabama and the world.
Exploring the Anniston Museum
The Anniston Museum is a unique museum located in Anniston, Alabama. Widely regarded as one of the top museums in the state, the Anniston Museum is a popular destination for visitors both young and old alike. With a wide array of exhibitions and programs to explore, there’s something for everyone at this fascinating museum.
A Brief History of the Museum
Originally founded in 1930 by the city’s mayor at the time, the Anniston Museum opened its doors with a small collection of artifacts. Over time, the museum has expanded and grown, adding new exhibits, collections and programs. Today, the Anniston Museum is home to a vast array of cultural artifacts, natural history exhibits, and interactive educational programs.
The Anniston Museum is situated in a beautiful 90-acre nature park, which is also home to the Berman Museum of World History, the Longleaf Botanical Gardens, and the Gadsden Museum of Art. The museum itself is housed in a large building with a long history- originally built in 1889, it has served a range of functions over the years, including as a hospital and a military prison.
Collections and Exhibits
One of the highlights of the Anniston Museum is its impressive collection of natural history exhibits. The museum features a range of dioramas showcasing various ecosystems found in North America, such as the Rocky Mountains, the Great Lakes, and the Florida Everglades.
In addition to these natural history exhibits, the Anniston Museum is also home to an incredible collection of cultural artifacts from around the world. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to Native American artwork and crafts, there’s a wealth of history on display in the museum.
Perhaps one of the most intriguing exhibits in the Anniston Museum is the collection of vintage firearms on display. Guns from various eras and regions are on show in the exhibit, including rare pieces from the American Civil War and the Wild West.
Interactive and Educational Programs
The Anniston Museum is much more than just a place to view exhibits- it’s also a hub for interactive and educational programs. The museum offers a range of workshops, classes, and tours for visitors of all ages.
For younger visitors, the Anniston Museum offers a range of hands-on activities and workshops designed to teach children about the natural world. Older visitors can attend one of the museum’s informative lectures or take part in a guided tour of the exhibits.
Overall, the Anniston Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone with an interest in the natural world, history, or culture. With its impressive collection of artifacts and engaging programs, the museum is well worth a visit for anyone visiting the Anniston area.
Visitor Information
Hours of Operation and Admission Fees
The Anniston Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and on Sundays, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays, on major holidays, and on the first Sunday of each month. General admission costs $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $7 for children ages 4 to 17. Children under 4 years of age and museum members get in for free.
In addition to the regular admission fee, the museum offers discounts for group tours, school groups, and military personnel. Memberships to the museum are also available, which includes free admission all year, discounts on events and programs, and more.
Location and Directions
The Anniston Museum is located at 800 Museum Drive, in the beautiful and historic Lagarde Park, in Anniston, Alabama. The museum is easily accessible by major highways, including I20 and US 431.
If you are coming from the north, take I20 to exit 185, and turn left onto US 431 South. Follow US 431 South for about 3 miles, then turn right onto Museum Drive. Follow Museum Drive to the end, and you will find the museum on your left. If you are coming from the south, take US 431 North, and turn left onto Museum Drive.
If you are looking for nearby attractions, you might want to check out the Berman Museum of World History, which is located right next to the Anniston Museum, or the Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail, which is only a few miles away.
Amenities and Accessibility
The Anniston Museum offers several amenities to make your visit more enjoyable and comfortable. There is a large free parking lot right in front of the museum, as well as overflow parking to the right of the entrance. The parking lot is accessible to buses, RVs, and trailers.
The museum is also fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, with ample wheelchair ramps, automatic doors, and elevators. Wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you get hungry or thirsty during your visit, there is a café located in the museum lobby, which offers snacks, beverages, and light meals. The gift shop next to the café offers a wide variety of souvenirs, gifts, and books related to the museum’s exhibits and collections.