Welcome to the Natural History Museum Boston, where you can experience the wonders of nature. From vast exhibits of majestic creatures to fascinating dioramas that depict the natural world, the museum offers a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of the world around us. The museum has something for everyone, and visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibits and learn about the diverse range of creatures that inhabit our planet. Whether you are interested in dinosaurs, marine life, or insects, there is something for everyone at the Natural History Museum Boston.
Natural History Museum Boston
About the Museum
The Natural History Museum Boston is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the natural world. Founded in 1830, this museum has a rich history that spans nearly two centuries. The museum is located in the heart of Boston, within the Fenway-Kenmore district, and is easily accessible by public transportation.
The museum’s exhibitions are designed to showcase the diversity of the natural world, from the smallest insects to the largest mammals. Among the museum’s permanent exhibits are the Hall of Birds, the Hall of Mammals, the New England Forests exhibit, and the Museum of Comparative Zoology.
The museum also features temporary exhibits that change frequently, so there’s always something new to discover. Recent temporary exhibits include “The Art of the Brick” and “Penguins.”
Collections
The Natural History Museum Boston is home to an impressive collection of specimens from all over the world. The museum’s collections are divided into four main categories: zoological, botanical, mineral, and paleontological.
The zoological collection includes over 20,000 specimens of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Among the highlights of this collection are the fossils of a saber-toothed cat and a woolly mammoth.
The botanical collection includes over 150,000 specimens of plants from around the world. The collection is particularly strong in New England flora, with over 25,000 specimens of plants from the region.
The mineral collection consists of over 100,000 specimens of rocks, minerals, and gems. The collection includes a stunning array of colorful and unusual minerals, as well as a large collection of meteorites.
The paleontological collection includes over a million specimens of fossils from around the world. The collection includes fossils of dinosaurs, early mammals, and other ancient creatures.
Events and Programs
The Natural History Museum Boston offers a variety of events and programs for visitors of all ages. Special exhibits and lectures are held throughout the year, and the museum offers a range of educational programs for school groups and families.
The museum also offers a series of lectures on topics ranging from climate change to biodiversity. These lectures are free and open to the public, and are a great way to learn more about the natural world.
In addition to the regular exhibits and programs, the museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These events are designed to be fun and engaging, and are a great way for visitors to connect with the natural world.
No matter what your interests are, the Natural History Museum Boston is a must-visit destination. With its impressive collections, fascinating exhibits, and engaging programs, this museum is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
Must-See Exhibitions
Visiting the natural history museum in Boston is always a fascinating experience, and there are some exhibitions that you should definitely not miss. Here are three of the museum’s most iconic displays:
Glass Flowers
One of the most unique exhibits in the museum, the Glass Flowers collection is a stunning display that showcases over 4,000 delicate models of plants and flowers. The collection was created by father-and-son team Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka, who were German artisans known for their incredible glass-blowing abilities. The models are made entirely out of glass and are incredibly lifelike, with intricate details and vibrant colors that make them almost indistinguishable from the real plants and flowers they depict.
The history of the Glass Flowers collection dates back to the late 1800s, when the Harvard Museum of Natural History commissioned the Blaschkas to create the models as a teaching tool for botany students. The Blaschkas spent over 50 years creating the models, and the collection was eventually acquired by the natural history museum in Boston in 1936. The Glass Flowers exhibit is a testament to the Blaschkas’ incredible talent and craftsmanship, as well as a fascinating look at the science of botany.
Great Mammal Hall
The Great Mammal Hall is home to a vast collection of mammal specimens from around the world, displayed in an array of impressive dioramas. The hall is split into different ecosystems, such as the African savannah and the North American prairie, and each diorama is incredibly detailed and realistic, complete with lifelike representations of the animals’ natural habitats. The dioramas feature everything from majestic elephants and lions to tiny rodents and bats, and provide a fascinating look at the diversity of mammal life on Earth.
Some of the highlights of the Great Mammal Hall include the massive skeleton of a blue whale, which hangs suspended from the ceiling, and the diorama depicting the mating ritual of the prairie chicken, which was created by famous wildlife artist Charles R. Knight. The Great Mammal Hall is a must-see exhibit for anyone interested in biology, zoology, or just the wonders of the natural world.
Dinosaurs and Fossils
No natural history museum would be complete without a collection of dinosaur fossils, and the museum in Boston has some truly impressive specimens on display. The crown jewels of the exhibit are undoubtedly the life-size models of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Triceratops, which dominate the center of the room. These models are incredibly detailed and accurate, and give visitors a sense of just how massive and impressive these prehistoric creatures really were.
But the dinosaur exhibit is more than just a showcase for models and skeletons – it’s also a center for ongoing research and discovery. The museum’s collection of over 600,000 fossils includes specimens from all over the world, and many of these fossils have been used to make groundbreaking discoveries in the field of paleontology. The museum also has an active research program, with scientists working to uncover new secrets about the lives and habits of these long-extinct creatures.
Overall, a visit to the natural history museum in Boston is an unforgettable experience, and the Glass Flowers, Great Mammal Hall, and Dinosaur and Fossil exhibits are just three of the many fascinating displays waiting to be explored.
Plan Your Visit
One of the oldest and most prestigious natural history museums in the United States is located in Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1830, the “Museum of Comparative Zoology” was established by Harvard University. The museum, which has since changed its name to the “Harvard Museum of Natural History,” has a collection of over 21 million specimens gathered through research expeditions all over the world.
Although the museum is temporarily closed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind for when the museum reopens.
Hours and Admission
The Harvard Museum of Natural History is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, except for major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Admission prices for adults are $15, seniors and non-Harvard students are $13, and children aged 3-18 are $10. Children under 3 years old can enter for free. Admission is also free for Harvard students, faculty, and staff, as well as for Massachusetts residents on Sundays from 9 am – 12 pm.
Getting There
The Harvard Museum of Natural History is located on the Harvard University campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The easiest way to get there is by taking public transportation. The nearest subway station is Harvard Station on the Red Line, which is about a 10-15 minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, the museum is accessible by bus routes 66 and 68. For those driving to the museum, limited metered parking is available on the streets surrounding the museum, as well as in the public parking lot on Oxford Street.
Facilities
Visitors to the museum can enjoy a variety of facilities to make their trip more enjoyable. The museum has a cafe called the “Museum Cafe,” which offers sandwiches, salads, pastries, and drinks. There is also a museum shop where visitors can purchase unique gifts, books, and souvenirs related to the natural history of the world. The museum is also accessible to visitors with disabilities, with parking spaces for disabled visitors located close to the entrance, and a wheelchair available for loan.
In conclusion, if you are interested in learning more about the natural history of the world, the Harvard Museum of Natural History in Boston is a must-see destination. With over 250,000 visitors per year, the museum is a popular attraction in the Boston area. So, if you are in the area and want to explore the wonders of natural history, be sure to check out the Harvard Museum of Natural History for a unique and informative experience.
Museum Shop
After spending hours exploring the vast exhibit halls of the Natural History Museum Boston, a stop at the Museum Shop is a must. You’ll find a variety of items perfect for souvenirs, gifts or keepsakes, all inspired by the museum’s collections. From books about the natural world to small trinkets and collectibles that showcase the wonders of our world, there’s something for everyone here. The store is conveniently located near the main entrance and can also be accessed through the museum’s website.
What to Expect
The Natural History Museum Boston’s gift shop offers an extensive selection of items to choose from. Take a stroll through the shelves and find handcrafted jewelry, educational toys, and animal-themed t-shirts. If you’re into home décor, there’s a variety of natural history inspired art prints, posters, and other decorative pieces to choose from. You may even find a collection of stunning and unique fossils, rocks, and mineral specimens for the rockhound in your life.
For book lovers, you’ll find an extensive collection of science and nature books for all ages, from picture books for children, to scientific journals for scholars. Additionally, you can find hundreds of titles covering every topic from biology to astrophysics, and written by renowned authors in their respective fields. Before leaving, don’t forget to check out the museum’s own publication, which goes into detail about some of the museum’s most important collections, including its meteorite collection, natural history art, and Mammoth exhibit.
Bestselling Items
Among their most popular items are educational toys which allow kids to explore and learn about the natural world in a hands-on way. For example, the Build-Your-Own Dinosaur kits and the Chemistry Lab Set. Everyone will find something that will pique their interest among the museum’s collection.
Their collection of natural history-inspired jewelry is quite extensive, with everything from delicate silver animal necklaces to diamond-studded geo pendants. If you’re a more subtle accessory lover, the range of enamel animal pins is a great way to add a pop of color to any outfit. Additionally, you may find their range of decorative housewares too hard to resist, with pieces like honeycomb-shaped beeswax candles, dishware with animal designs, and vintage-inspired botanical prints.
Online Store
If you’re unable to visit the physical store, you’ll be pleased to know that the Natural History Museum Boston’s online store is available from anywhere. The website’s layout is simple and easy to navigate, making the online shopping experience effortless. Through the online store, you can purchase many of the same items that are sold in store, including books and natural history specimens, as well as unique items only available online, like customized jewelry and personalized calendars.
One of the most convenient features of the online store is its selection of gift bundles. These pre-selected gift sets include a range of items that complement each other. For example, dinosaur-themed gifts paired with a book that explores the right topics, or a collection of science kits for kids of various ages. Additionally, the online store offers its customers regular discounts, making it easier to acquire quality merchandise at a reduced price.
Shipping is available to many locations across the world. Orders are processed and shipped within 3-5 days after they are received, and the shipping time may depend on your location. The website also provides a clear policy for any returns or exchanges so your shopping experience is hassle-free.
Overall, the Natural History Museum Boston’s Museum Shop, both in-person and online, offers an excellent range of natural-history-inspired items. With plenty of options for all ages and interests, there’s no excuse not to leave with a little piece of the museum.
Natural History Museum Boston: A Must-Visit Destination for History Enthusiasts
The Natural History Museum Boston is a one-of-a-kind destination that should be on the bucket list of any history enthusiast. Located in the heart of Boston, the museum is home to a vast collection of natural wonders and artifacts that offer unique insights into the natural world and human history. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a solo adventure, or a school trip, the Natural History Museum Boston is a must-visit destination that offers hours of fascinating discoveries and academic enlightenment.
Exhibitions That Delight and Educate
One of the most remarkable things about the Natural History Museum Boston is the wealth of exhibitions that it offers. Visitors can choose from a vast array of displays that cover everything from the animals of the Amazon rainforest and the extinct species of dinosaurs to the stars and planets of the cosmos. The exhibitions are meticulously curated and designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages and interests. Kids will love the hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and immersive displays that allow them to touch and explore the natural wonders of our world.
The museum is also home to the famed Mugar Omni Theater. The giant-screen cinema features 180-degree panoramic films that transport viewers to distant lands and worlds. The theater uses state-of-the-art technology to create a truly immersive experience that is unlike anything else you’ve ever seen. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, the Mugar Omni Theater offers a cinematic journey that you won’t soon forget.
Unique Collections That Inspire Deep Exploration
The Natural History Museum Boston is renowned for its collections of unique artifacts and specimens that date back hundreds of millions of years. Visitors can explore the vast expanse of the museum’s collections and marvel at everything from the stunning minerals and gems to the ancient fossils and skeletons. The museum’s collection of birds and mammals is also not to be missed. Visitors can view everything from the iconic bald eagle and the majestic African elephant to the adorable giant panda and the elusive snow leopard.
The museum’s collection of Native American art and artifacts is also a standout. Visitors can gain an understanding of the complex cultural traditions and artistic expressions of Native American communities throughout North America. The collection includes striking examples of pottery, basketry, textiles, and jewelry, as well as ceremonial and ritual objects that invoke spiritual practices and beliefs.
Educational Programs That Encourage Lifelong Learning
The Natural History Museum Boston is not just a place to visit and explore; it is also a hub of learning and education. The museum offers a variety of programs that cater to children, adults, and families. Children can participate in hands-on activities that encourage scientific exploration and discovery, while adults can attend lectures and workshops that explore the natural wonders of our world and the complex human history that surrounds us.
The museum’s library is also a treasure trove of knowledge that is open to the public. Visitors can browse the extensive collection of books, journals, and other materials that cover everything from geology and paleontology to anthropology and archaeology. The library’s knowledgeable staff is always on hand to assist with research and information, making it an excellent resource for students, scholars, and enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Why Visit the Natural History Museum Boston?
If you’re looking for a destination that offers endless discovery and education, the Natural History Museum Boston is the place for you. With its unparalleled exhibitions, unique collections, and educational programs, the museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural world and human history. Whether you’re a seasoned history buff or a curious beginner, the Natural History Museum Boston has something to offer you. So why wait? Plan your visit today and experience the wonders of the natural world like never before.