8 Must-See Natural History Displays That Won’t Break the Bank
Natural history displays are always a fascinating way to learn about and explore the world around us. From dinosaur skeletons to preserved specimens of exotic animals, these displays offer a glimpse into the past and present of our planet’s wildlife. If you’re a lover of natural history, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy some amazing exhibits. Here are eight must-see natural history displays that won’t cost you an arm and a leg:
1. The American Museum of Natural History – New York City
Located in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, this iconic museum is home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. Visitors can marvel at life-size replicas of prehistoric creatures or explore exhibits on human evolution, biodiversity, and more.
2. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – Washington D.C.
This museum features over 126 million specimens from all corners of the globe, including everything from tiny insects to giant whales. Highlights include exhibits on ocean life, ancient cultures, and even an interactive butterfly pavilion.
3. Field Museum – Chicago
The Field Museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts from around the world, with highlights including Sue – one of the most complete T-Rex skeletons ever discovered – as well as interactive exhibits on Egyptian mummies and Native American culture.
4. Royal Ontario Museum – Toronto
One standout exhibit at this Canadian museum is its collection of dinosaur fossils found right in Ontario itself! But there’s plenty more on display here too: visitors can learn about Earth’s geological formations or admire rare gems and minerals like meteorites and diamonds.
5. Melbourne Museum – Melbourne
In addition to excellent collections focused on Australian flora & fauna (including taxidermied specimens), this museum also features rotating temporary exhibitions ranging from art installations inspired by science fiction movies (like Star Wars) to explorations into how design affects our daily lives.
6. Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle – Paris
This French museum is home to one of the world’s largest natural history collections, with over 60 million specimens. Visitors can explore exhibits on geology, botany, and even paleontology – or head outside to the stunning Jardin des Plantes botanical garden.
7. Natural History Museum – London
From dinosaur skeletons to displays on human evolution and biodiversity, this British museum has something for everyone. The grand entrance hall alone is worth a visit – it features an enormous Diplodocus skeleton that stretches across the ceiling!
8. National Museum of Natural History – Santiago
Chile’s national natural history museum offers a range of exhibits exploring everything from ancient civilizations like the Incas & Mapuches to Chilean wildlife (including some species you probably didn’t know existed).
These eight museums offer just a small taste of what’s available in terms of natural history displays around the world—but they’re all great places to start if you’re looking for inspiring and educational exhibits without breaking your budget! Note that many museums also offer free admission days or discounted rates for certain groups such as students or seniors—so be sure to check their websites before making plans.