Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History - Santa Cruz, California

Discover the Wonders of Nature at Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Situated at 1305 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, United States, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of natural history. This museum stands out not only for its extensive collection of exhibits but also for its commitment to providing a family-friendly environment that caters to visitors of all ages. With a phone number 831-420-6115 for inquiries, and an accessible website santacruzmuseum.org, planning a visit has never been easier.

Key Features and Services

- Specialties: As a Natural History Museum and Tourist Attraction, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History boasts a diverse array of exhibits that delve into the fascinating world of wildlife and geological history.

- On-Site Services: Visitors can enjoy convenience with wheelchair-accessible car park, wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible toilet, and gender-neutral toilets. This ensures that everyone can fully appreciate the museum's offerings without barriers.

- Educational and Fun Experiences: The museum is particularly praised for its engaging activities suitable for children, making it an ideal spot for family outings. The variety of wildlife exhibits and interactive displays captivate visitors of all ages.

- Restoration and Relaxation: After exploring, visitors can take a moment to unwind with a meal at the on-site restaurant or enjoy a peaceful walk around the nearby trees and paths. It's especially recommended for those seeking a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

- Accessibility and Amenities: With exhibits that range from modern to ancient local animals, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through time, complemented by fossils on display that highlight the rich paleontological heritage of the New Brighton Beach cliffs.

What Visitors Are Saying

The consensus among visitors is overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Google My Business. Testimonials highlight the museum's ability to educate and entertain, particularly for younger audiences. One visitor noted, "Our 3rd grader loved learning here," while another appreciated the local focus, saying, "Fascinating exhibits that show both modern and ancient local animals."

Planning Your Visit

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for educational fun, or simply someone interested in local history, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History offers a wealth of experiences. Here are some tips for making the most of your visit:

- Arrive Early: To avoid crowds and make the most of your time, consider visiting during less busy hours.
- Check Exhibits: While the museum is extensive, some exhibits may be more popular than others. Checking their online schedule can help you prioritize.
- Explore Nearby: Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the museum, with its calm paths and serene atmosphere.

Ready to Explore

For those eager to embark on a journey through time and nature, the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History awaits. You can easily reach out to them through their website santacruzmuseum.org to plan your visit or ask any questions. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with the wonders of our natural world. Visit today and discover why this museum is a top choice for educational and entertaining experiences in Santa Cruz.

👍 Reviews of Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History

Rosalba G.

5/5

Great museum with lots of fun activities and variety of wildlife exhibits. Our 3rd grader loved learning here. Please visit the trees around the Park out front and walk along the path it’s calm and peaceful💜

Philip F. D.

5/5

Great little museum! Fascinating exhibits that show both modern and ancient local animals. The fossils on display are great examples of what can be found at the cliffs at New Brighton Beach.

Lynne M.

5/5

Cute, intimate experience & the iconic whale that kids love to climb has been there for decades! This location has plenty of parking and easy for grandparents to navigate because there are inky a few steps from the parking lot! This is the perfect intimate place to bring young naturalist to learn about plants, animals of Santa Cruz. There’s a young children’s craft table and curator to assist and guide the children with projects. The seaweed kelp artist exhibit was interesting and I bought a box of gift cards as a memento of our visit here! If you have time for a picnic take the kids across the street to Seabright Beach & enjoy the afternoon.

Gabriela U.

5/5

The museum is super cute and everything inside is very interesting. We went as part of a Santa Cruz trip and we really enjoyed it. There was always something new to see. Don't let the location size fool you into thinking otherwise. We were fortunate enough to go on a free day as well.

W. G. R.

5/5

SeaBright Beach at night is amazing. "Smell of the low tide, sound of the rain..." For those who know the song.

Veronica Z.

5/5

This is a very cool little natural history museum. So many things are packed into the small space that it can be deceptive. Keep your eyes peeled, look at every corner, and look up! We were there to see the recently discovered mastodon tooth, which was only there temporarily.

Nanette B.

5/5

Local gem of a museum teaching about area people and natural history. Adjacent to Seabright beach so bring a picnic lunch and make a beach day of it. Outdoor amphitheater. Don’t miss the touch pool inside and life size whale replica outside. Perfect for climbing. Limited hours and street parking. Entrance fee unless a member. School groups welcome.

Gabriel T.

4/5

The museum is rather small, but it's still interesting for the young kids to explore, and it's free for anyone under 18. Adults are just $4 per person.