Welcome, nature enthusiasts! Today’s article is an exciting one as we take a virtual tour in one of the best wildlife museums and aquariums in the world – the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium. Tucked in the heart of the Ozarks in Missouri, this 350,000 square foot facility houses over 1.5 million gallons of water and exhibits thousands of animals in their natural habitats. In this article, we’ll explore the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium through stunning photos that will leave you in awe of the beauty of nature. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
Exploring the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium Photos
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri is a must-visit attraction for all animal lovers. The museum and aquarium house an impressive collection of wildlife exhibits that are sure to leave you in awe. Here, we explore the history of the museum, its highlights, and the photo opportunities that await you.
History of the Museum & Aquarium
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium was founded by Johnny Morris, the founder of Bass Pro Shops, in 2001. The museum was originally located on Lake Springfield, but it closed in 2007 to undergo an extensive renovation. After a decade of planning and construction, the museum and aquarium reopened in 2017 with a new name, Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium.
The museum and aquarium boast over 1.5 miles of immersive exhibits spread across 350,000 square feet of space. The exhibits take visitors on a journey that chronicles the history of hunting and fishing in the United States and celebrates the importance of wildlife conservation.
Highlights of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is a treasure trove of wildlife exhibits. From the moment you enter the museum, you are transported to a world of wonders. Some of the most popular attractions include:
– The Great Oceans Hall: This hall showcases the diversity of marine life and features a 300,000-gallon aquarium that houses sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.
– The Africa Room: This room transports you to the African savanna and features a life-sized diorama of a lion and zebra.
– The Arctic Room: This room showcases the wildlife of the Arctic regions and features an exhibit on polar bears.
– The American Wilderness Exhibit: This exhibit is a recreation of the North American wilderness and features animatronic animals like grizzly bears, wolves, and cougars.
Photo Opportunities at the Museum & Aquarium
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium provides ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts. The museum and aquarium feature a range of exhibits that offer stunning photo opportunities. Here are some tips on how to capture the best photos:
– Take your time: The museum and aquarium are extensive, and there are plenty of exhibits to explore. Take your time to explore each exhibit and find the perfect angle for your shot.
– Use a wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens is ideal for photography in tight spaces, and there are many cramped areas in the museum and aquarium.
– Avoid using flash: Flash photography is not allowed in the museum and aquarium. Instead, use natural light or a tripod to stabilize your camera.
Some of the top spots for photography at the museum and aquarium include:
– The Great Oceans Hall: The 300,000-gallon aquarium provides a beautiful backdrop for photography.
– The Life-Sized Dioramas: The African savanna and Arctic region dioramas offer captivating photographic opportunities.
– The American Wilderness Exhibit: The exhibit features animatronic animals in their natural habitats, making for unique photo opportunities.
In conclusion, the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers and photography enthusiasts. The museum and aquarium boast an impressive collection of wildlife exhibits that are sure to leave visitors in awe. From the Great Oceans Hall to the American Wilderness exhibit, the museum and aquarium feature a range of highlights that showcase the beauty and diversity of the natural world. So, grab your camera and head to Springfield, Missouri, to explore the wonders of wildlife at the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium.
Behind the Scenes of the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium
Conservation & Education Efforts
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is not your ordinary tourist attraction. It is a celebration of nature, conservation, and education. The museum and aquarium’s mission is to promote an understanding and appreciation of wildlife and their habitats while encouraging conservation efforts.
The museum and aquarium partners with conservation organizations such as the National Wildlife Federation, Johnny Morris Foundation, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, among others. These partnerships mean that the museum and aquarium support research projects, conservation initiatives, and community-based activities. Through its initiatives, the museum and aquarium aim to empower individuals and communities to take action towards protecting wildlife and their habitats.
Visitors to the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium can also expect an educational experience. There are interactive exhibits that showcase different ecosystems and the animals living in them. The exhibits are designed to promote understanding, empathy, and respect towards nature. There are also educational programs and workshops that cater to different age levels and interests. The museum and aquarium encourage visitors to embrace their role as stewards of the environment.
Meet the Animals and Staff
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is home to over 800 different species of animals, including a diverse range of fish, mammals, and birds. Visitors can witness first-hand the magic of nature and wildlife conservation. A team of dedicated professionals works behind the scenes to ensure that the animals receive the best care possible.
Meet some of the most popular animals that call the museum and aquarium home:
- Shark Alley – a 250,000-gallon tunnel where visitors can walk through and see sharks from different angles.
- Swim with the Stingrays – an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to touch and even swim with the stingrays.
- African Penguins – visitors can meet the playful and curious penguins at the Penguin Cove exhibit.
- Bobcats – these wild and majestic cats are some of the newest additions to the museum and aquarium.
It’s not just the animals that make the museum and aquarium special. Meet the team of dedicated professionals who ensures that the animals receive the best care, attention, and love. The museum and aquarium have veterinarians, trainers, and aquarists who work around the clock to make sure that the animals are healthy, safe, and stimulated.
Future Plans for the Wildlife Museum & Aquarium
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium continues to innovate and expand its offerings. Visitors can expect a lot more in the coming years:
- New exhibits – the museum and aquarium plan to introduce new exhibits that showcase different parts of the world and their ecosystems.
- Animal expansion – the museum and aquarium want to increase the number of animal species they care for and continue to promote wildlife conservation.
- Education programs – the museum and aquarium plan to expand their educational programs and offer more opportunities to learn about wildlife conservation.
- Outdoor activities – the museum and aquarium plan to further integrate outdoor activities such as hikes, fishing, and camping into their offerings.
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a celebration of nature’s wonder and beauty. The museum and aquarium promote wildlife conservation, community engagement, and education. The museum and aquarium’s immersive experience creates a lasting impact on visitors and instills a love and respect for the environment.
Visiting the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium
Location and Hours of Operation
The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is located in Springfield, Missouri, and is one of the largest and most extensive wildlife museums in the United States. The museum and aquarium are open from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm every day except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.
The address of the museum and aquarium is 500 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807, which can be accessed easily by taking exit 71 or 72 off of I-44. It is important to note that the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is a popular destination and can become crowded during peak times, so be sure to arrive early to ensure that you can take your time and enjoy everything that the exhibits have to offer.
Ticket Prices and Admission
There are several different types of tickets available for the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium, which vary in price depending on the age of the visitor and the length of time they plan to spend exploring the exhibits. General admission tickets start at $39.95 for adults and $23.95 for children ages 4-11. There are also longer-duration tickets available for those who wish to spend more time in the aquarium and museum.
Visitors to the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium can save money by purchasing their tickets online in advance. There are often discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and students, as well as for local residents. Be sure to check the museum’s website before you visit to see if there are any special discounts available.
Tips for a Successful Museum & Aquarium Visit
If this is your first time visiting the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium, there are some important tips to keep in mind to ensure that you have a successful visit. First and foremost, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as you will be doing a lot of walking. The exhibits are spread out over a large area, so it is important to be prepared for a long day of exploring.
Another important tip is to bring a camera or smartphone to capture photos of the amazing wildlife exhibits. There are some incredible photo opportunities throughout the museum and aquarium, so be sure to have your camera ready at all times.
Finally, be sure to allow plenty of time for your visit. The Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is a large complex with many different exhibits to explore, so plan to spend at least a few hours exploring everything. It is also a good idea to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and to ensure that you have plenty of time to see everything that you want to see.
Overall, a visit to the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium is sure to be a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages. With so many incredible exhibits to explore, it is no wonder that this museum and aquarium is considered one of the best in the country.