Audio GuideNational Museum of Natural History

Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle

Centuries-old institution housing rare plant & animal life, dinosaur skeletons & tropical hothouses.

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Welcome to the National Museum of Natural History. Founded in nineteen ten and housed in a grand building completed in nineteen eleven, this institution was designed by renowned architects such as Hornblower and Marshall, Charles Follen McKim, and Daniel Burnham. Once created as a public attraction, the museum has grown into a vital research facility, contributing greatly to our understanding of plants, animals, human origins, and the natural world.

The museum’s collections include rare plant and animal specimens, remarkable fossils, and even meteorites collected over centuries. Visitors experience a journey through time with impressive dinosaur skeletons, including a sturdy Triceratops and a captivating T. rex, alongside celebrated treasures like the famed Hope Diamond. The blend of art and science is evident in the museum’s design—from its impressive rotunda to the beautiful Baird Auditorium with its striking tile-vaulted ceiling.

This museum has had a profound cultural impact both locally and globally by showcasing the rich heritage of natural history. Through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and ongoing scientific research, it continues to enlighten and inspire millions of visitors, making it a must-visit destination for anyone eager to explore nature’s fascinating legacy.

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