In City Park, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science brings together Colorado’s natural history, wildlife, dinosaurs, space, health and human cultures. Explore the Gems and Minerals galleries for stones from Colorado and beyond, then move on to animal habitat displays, fossils, Egyptian mummies or hands-on activities in Space Odyssey and Expedition Health. A planetarium and giant-screen theater add ticketed shows to the visit. The collection is large enough to fill several hours, so choose a few galleries that interest you most or plan time for a longer visit.
A museum spanning natural history and science
The museum in City Park covers Colorado’s natural history, the wider natural world and the universe. Its collections include fossils, animal displays, minerals, Egyptian objects and material related to Indigenous cultures. The permanent galleries sit alongside temporary exhibitions, so the subjects on view can change.
The institution traces its beginnings to naturalist Edwin Carter, who collected birds and mammals from the Rocky Mountains and displayed his specimens at home. The museum was founded in 1900 and established its City Park home in 1908. Its collections now include hundreds of thousands of objects, with material for public exhibits, archives and research.
Galleries to choose from
Gems and Minerals connects geology with Colorado history. The displays include stones from Colorado mines as well as specimens from other parts of the world. Wildlife Halls presents animals in habitat scenes, while Prehistoric Journey follows life through Earth’s past with fossils and large dinosaur remains.
Egyptian Mummies uses modern scientific methods, including CT scans and radiocarbon dating, to investigate ancient lives. North American Indian Cultures presents objects and reconstructed dwellings. In Expedition Health, interactive activities explore the human body and health; Space Odyssey brings visitors into questions about space through hands-on displays.
Children can spend time in Discovery Zone, an area with practical activities. Some exhibits include play spaces for younger children. Since temporary exhibitions change, check the current schedule if there is a particular subject you hope to see.
Shows and planning your visit
The Gates Planetarium and the museum’s giant-screen theater add scheduled presentations to the galleries. These are separate experiences from walking through the exhibits, and some special exhibitions and events also have additional charges. Check ticket details before your visit so you can decide which extras suit your plans.
The museum has a café and other on-site dining options, as well as a shop. Free parking is available in a lot and garage. Admission discounts and free days or evenings may be available; check the museum’s website for current details. The museum is at 2001 Colorado Blvd, in City Park.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I spend at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science?
Allow 2 to 4 hours for a visit. The galleries, shows and interactive areas can fill a longer outing.
Are planetarium and theater shows included with admission?
Show tickets may cost extra, as can tickets for special exhibitions. Check the current ticket details before you go.
Is parking available at the museum?
Free parking is available in a lot and a garage near the museum.
What are the main exhibits at the museum?
Galleries cover subjects including dinosaurs, wildlife, gems and minerals, Egyptian mummies, Indigenous cultures, space and human health. Temporary exhibitions also take place.
