Stockholm’s Museum of Natural History, at Frescativägen 40 near Stockholm University, brings together exhibits on dinosaurs, Swedish wildlife, human evolution, oceans, polar regions and the planet’s geology. Look for fossil skeletons, animal displays and interactive features across several floors. Cosmonova, the museum’s dome cinema, screens IMAX films and planetarium shows, including films about space. Allow about three hours for the permanent exhibitions; add more time if you plan to see a special exhibition or a film. It suits families, but adults can explore the collections on their own too.
Exhibitions across the natural world
The Museum of Natural History covers the development of life on Earth and the variety of the natural world. Its permanent exhibitions include fossils and evolution, dinosaurs, Swedish flora and fauna, marine life, human anatomy and the history of human development. Other displays turn to climate, polar regions, meteorites, minerals and gemstones.
Animal displays, skeletons and carefully made models help bring different habitats and forms of life into view. The collection includes prehistoric skeletons and a whale skeleton. Some exhibits use interactive elements to give visitors more ways to explore a subject, though touchscreen features may not all respond reliably.
A trail for younger visitors
Children can follow the Discovery Trail, using a map picked up at the museum or downloaded before the visit. Its stops include a look inside a bear’s winter lair and an ant hill viewed from within. Dinosaur displays and hands-on elements give younger visitors plenty to investigate, while the range of subjects also gives adults room to follow their own interests.
Exhibition information is available in English. The museum’s displays span several floors, so choosing a few subjects in advance can help if you have limited time. Three hours is a useful allowance for the permanent exhibitions; a day can be filled by adding special exhibitions and a Cosmonova screening.
Cosmonova’s dome cinema
Cosmonova is the museum’s dome cinema, where IMAX films and planetarium shows take visitors into subjects including astronomy and space. Films such as Asteroid Hunters are among the screenings associated with the venue. Check the current programme and ticket details before your visit, as a film is a separate activity from exploring the galleries.
The museum also has a restaurant and café, along with a coat check. If you are visiting with children, plan your route around the exhibits they are most keen to see, then leave time for a film if one fits your schedule.
FAQ
How long do you need at the Museum of Natural History in Stockholm?
Allow about three hours for the permanent exhibitions. A visit with special exhibitions and a Cosmonova film can take most of the day.
What can you see at the Museum of Natural History?
Exhibitions cover dinosaurs, fossils, evolution, Swedish wildlife, oceans, human anatomy, polar regions, climate, meteorites and minerals.
Is there an activity for children?
Children can follow the Discovery Trail, which includes stops at a bear’s winter lair and an ant hill. The museum also has interactive displays.
Does the museum have an IMAX cinema?
Yes. Cosmonova is a dome cinema at the museum, with IMAX films and planetarium shows. Check the current programme and ticket details before visiting.
