Nc Museum of Natural Sciences

One of the best parts of Raleighs museums at that addmittance into mostof them is free. I have to say I wasn't that impressed with the content of this museum, for three florrs they erally dont have a lot of interesting exhibits. They do have a lot of things catered to small children, so if you're looking for a fun free activity for the kids this could be the ticket. more

The NC Museum of Natural Sciences is a four-story science museum in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Admission to the permanent collection is always free. Special exhibitions often do have a charge associated with them; that price is always heavily discounted when the museum stays open til 9 PM on the First Friday of the month. Also on First Fridays, the museum shows a sci-fi flick for free at 7 PM (check the website for this month's showing). Overall - the areas on the first floor with the not-live-animal displays (fake fish suspended in a tank) feel a little campy but are very well detailed. The seahorses (live!) on the first floor are a real treat. The second floor is where you can find the overlook information on all the giant whale skeletons (definately worth some time) and stroll through ridiculously detailed re-creations of NC forests. My college age friends can spend hours looking up every plant they spot! The dinos are on the third floor and are quite neat. The fourth floor contains the living conservatory, which, quite disappoingly, is not open late First Fridays, which is the only time I ever manage to get down there. Parking is much easier on First Fridays and on weekends but is by no means impossible otherwise. The group presentations you can book in advance with a staff member talking about animals are excellent. more

I used to volunteer in the paleo lab and the fact that they had a paleo lab is indicative of the hands on approach that this museum takes. They have a great permanent exhibit in dinos, all kinds of animals and plants. But do not miss the special exhibits from time to time. I know they charge admission for those, but they are always worth the price. I was there for the Deep Sea and Space Exploration exhibits. Also, do not be shy about volunteering for the museum. more

An impressive museum with several levels of exhibits. Everyone seems to love the butterfly room and dinosaur dome. This place is usually pretty empty after they open on Sundays, so I think that is the best time to go. more

I enjoy visiting the Museum of Natural Sciences. One of my favorite corporate events was hosted here. I like the plant and animal exhibits on the first and second floor. I think the dinosaur room on the second floor is my favorite. The third floor has a bug exhibit and café. This museum is fun for kids and adults. more

I love going to the museum of natural sciences. Admissionn is always free and you can learn about all sorts of plants and animals, as well as visit the fantastic dinosaur room. I like going and sitting in the big window in the dino room and looking out at the city below. Good fun free time, and they ahve birthday parties for kids. more