North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, NC

1. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences History

• When did the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences originate?
  • The museum’s origins date back to the late 1800s, following the merger of the State’s geological and agricultural collections.
• What was the original mission of the museum?
  • Established by the State General Assembly, the museum's mission was to illuminate the natural history of North Carolina.
• What areas does the museum focus on today?
  • In addition to collections, the museum emphasizes research, conservation, and education.
• Who were the Brimley brothers?
  • The Brimley brothers were immigrants from England in the 1880s. One was a hunter-naturalist and the other a scientist-collector. Together, they guided the museum's development and expanded its collections for many decades.
• Has the museum received any major honors?
  • Yes, in 2014, the museum was awarded the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the highest honor for libraries or museums in the U.S., for its service to the community.

2. Permanent Exhibits at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

• What are the main areas of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences?
  • The museum's collections are split into two main areas: the Nature Exploration Center and the Nature Research Center, offering a variety of educational and interactive exhibits.
• What is featured in the Nature Exploration Center?
  • This area hosts a range of exhibits focused on North Carolina’s natural wonders, from local wildlife and geology to prehistoric life and live animals.
• Which exhibits focus on North Carolina's local species and ecosystems?
  • Exhibits like Natural Treasures of North Carolina and Mountain Cove explore native species, while Nature’s Explorers highlights the region’s past.
• What exhibits highlight prehistoric life?
  • Prehistoric North Carolina and Terror of the South showcase ancient flora and fauna, including the only full Acrocanthosaurus skeleton on display in the world and a 1.5 million-year-old sloth.
• Is there an exhibit about geology?
  • Yes, Underground North Carolina is dedicated to the state’s geology, featuring its four major gemstones: diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires.
• Are there exhibits about coastal regions?
  • Yes, the Mountains to Sea and Coastal North Carolina exhibits, along with the Overlook, highlight the state’s saltmarshes, barrier islands, and maritime forests. A major highlight is the extraordinary blue whale skeleton.
• Are there live animals on display?
  • Yes, the center features several exhibits with live creatures, including the Living Conservatory (tropical dry forest species), the Arthropod Zoo (creepy crawlies), and Snakes of North Carolina (featuring many of the state's 40 native snake species).

3. Nature Research Center at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

• What is the Nature Research Center?
  • The Nature Research Center is a section of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences featuring a wide range of science exhibits, hands-on labs, and multimedia experiences.
• What is the SECU Daily Planet?
  • The SECU Daily Planet is a three-story theater housed inside a giant globe-shaped structure. It offers immersive shows that highlight the wonders of the natural world in exquisite detail.
• What is the Naturalist Center?
  • The Naturalist Center features hands-on activities and collections that visitors can touch and examine, providing a direct way to interact with natural science.
• What is the Citizen Science Project?
  • The Citizen Science project invites everyday individuals to contribute to scientific research in meaningful ways, bridging the gap between the public and professional science.
• What are the Investigate Labs?
  • There are four Investigate Labs that allow visitors to observe and participate in scientific work:
    • Visual World Lab: Uses tech like robotics, VR, and GIS mapping.
    • Natural World Lab: Focuses on experiments and hypothesis testing.
    • Micro World Lab: Teaches about microscopic organisms and includes DNA isolation.
• Are there exhibits related to DNA and microbes?
  • Yes, the Unraveling DNA exhibit explores microscopic genetic structures, while Planet Micro displays massive models of microbes to help visualize tiny organisms.
• What other exhibits can be found in the Nature Research Center?
  • Additional exhibits include:
    • Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries: Fossil studies from micro to massive.
    • Postcards from Space: Follows meteorites and space travel.
    • Exploring Deep Sea and Our Changing Oceans: Examine the marine world and the effects of environmental change.

4. Animals at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

• Does the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences have live animals?
  • Yes, the museum houses a large collection of live animals, making it function almost like a zoo in addition to being a science museum.
• How many fish exhibits are in the museum?
  • The museum features nine freshwater and five saltwater fish exhibits, showcasing species from the Appalachian Mountains to the North Carolina coastline.
• How many fish and invertebrate species are displayed?
  • The museum displays over 100 different species of fish and invertebrates.
• Are there reptiles and amphibians at the museum?
  • Yes, the museum's Living Collection includes 35 exhibits featuring 50 different species of reptiles and amphibians.
• What other live animal exhibits are featured?
  • The Living Conservatory and Arthropod Zoo also contribute to the museum’s extensive display of live critters.
• Who takes care of the museum’s animals?
  • The museum has its own Veterinary Services unit dedicated to animal care. Visitors can watch them in action at the Window on Animal Health exhibit.

5. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Events

• Does the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences host events and activities?
  • Yes, the museum offers a variety of events and programs, ensuring that every visit is a unique experience.
• What types of events are available?
  • Events include classes, lectures, movies, discussions, and daily programs on a wide range of scientific topics.
• What are some examples of past or ongoing events?
  • Examples include Introduction to Cells, North Carolina Wildlife, Candid Critters in the Classroom, and even the creatively titled CSI Dublin: Hunting a Potato Killer.
• How can I find out what's happening at the museum?
  • The best way to stay informed is to check the upcoming events calendar on the museum’s official website.

6. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Education

Education is a huge part of any trip to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, however, there is more to offer educators and students alike even than can be found in the exhibits. Special events, workshops and resources for educators provide inspiration for those who shape young minds. Field trips to the Museum get students out of their normal environment, bring science to life, and create an interactive learning atmosphere. E-learning and outreach through online tools and virtual programs bring the Museum to the community.

7. Plan Your Visit to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

• Why is the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences a great family destination?
  • With dozens of exhibits, hundreds of animals, and countless ways to explore and learn, the museum offers an educational and entertaining experience for the entire family.
• Is the museum easy to access?
  • Yes, the museum is easily accessible from most freeways, with public parking available nearby (note: weekday parking may have a fee).
• How can I plan ahead for my visit?
  • To make the most of your trip, it's recommended to check the museum’s website for current events and activities.
• Are there gift shops at the museum?
  • Yes, there are three different stores offering a wide variety of toys, books, keepsakes, and educational items to take home.
• Is food available onsite?
  • Yes, onsite dining options are available, making it easy to spend a full day at the museum without needing to leave for meals.
• Where is the museum located?
  • 11 West Jones Street, Raleigh, NC 27601, Phone: 919-707-9800