North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

This natural sciences museum is the largest in the entire Southeast of the US and boats 7 floors of incredible and interactive exhibits.

Shine light on your curious side when you visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, located in the heart of downtown Raleigh. With a strong dedication to science and nature, this is the largest museums of its kind in the Southeast, and it brings patrons on an immersive and fascinating journey through the history of our planet and the diverse life that inhabits it. The museum develops various exhibits that are shared with other institutions around the state, and their programs bring positive impacts to all 100 counties in North Carolina.

It's easy to spend a full day exploring the 300,000-square-foot establishment and its many hands-on exhibits. The Nature Exploration Center and Nature Research Center are the two main wings of the museum, each featuring interactive displays on topics ranging from ancient fossils to modern-day climate science. Some of the exhibits include the Butterfly Room, Mountain Cove, the Discovery Room, Mountains of the Sea, Natural Treasures of North Carolina, Our Changing Ocean, Planet Micro, and Dueling Dinosaurs. Whether you’re more drawn to all things nature and wildlife or want to learn as much as you can about the world’s history and geology, there is plenty to discover.

Regular museum goers can also enjoy the many programs, events, and workshops that are held throughout the year. From young kids to adults of any age, this museum is guaranteed to impress, educate, and bring the fun. The museum offers free general admission and is truly devoted to teaching the public, conserving our natural world, and making the planet an overall better place. The next time you’re in Raleigh, a day at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a must!