Fernbank Museum of Natural History - a display case filled with lots of butterflies
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Fernbank Museum of Natural History

4.5
·8k reviews·Atlanta, United States

Explore towering dinosaur skeletons, immersive worlds, and ancient forests at this Atlanta natural history museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Fernbank Museum of Natural History - a display case filled with lots of butterflies

Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore towering dinosaur skeletons, immersive worlds, and ancient forests at this Atlanta natural history museum.

4.5
(8k reviews)

"The size of the skeletons in the main atrium is hard to put into words."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Avoid long queues, especially on busy days.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the outdoor trails. Wear comfy shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giants of the Past

Giants of the Past

Great Hall

Towering dinosaur skeletons, including a massive Argentinosaurus, dominate the stunning 3-story atrium.

Invisible Worlds

Invisible Worlds

Richard Gilder Center

An immersive, multi-sensory experience that explores the interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Outdoor Nature Trails

Outdoor Nature Trails

Fernbank Forest

Explore 75 acres of protected, old-growth forest with walking paths and educational signage.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While Fernbank is a fantastic spot for families, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds. Weekends can get busy, especially with school groups. Arrive early to make the most of your visit and beat the rush.

Beyond the Dinosaurs

Fernbank offers more than just dinosaur skeletons. Explore the immersive 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit, discover local Georgia wildlife, and don't miss the outdoor nature trails when the weather is good. Check for special exhibits and live animal encounters.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (excluding weekends)
Why
School groups often leave by mid-afternoon
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Can be very busy with families
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🦈 Dive into the Museum’s collections with Ryan Thoni, curatorial associate of Ichthyology, and meet the shark that inspired the Jaws movie poster! #Jaws50 #NaturalHistory #Jaws #Sharks #museums #Ichthyology #STEM
@naturalhistorymuseum
1.8M likes • 18.2M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Avoid long queues, especially on busy days. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the outdoor trails. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

See Invisible Worlds in the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation! 🐋✨ #MuseumTok #NaturalHistory #ImmersiveExperience #nyctiktok #ThingsToDoInNYC
@naturalhistorymuseum
435.3K likes • 3.9M views
Winner for best museum entryway 😍 Fun fact: I wanted to be a paleontologist when I was a kid 🦕 📍 Fernbank Museum of Natural History 767 Clifton Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30307 - Fernbank museum, Atlanta, Atlanta things to do #atlanta #fernbankmuseum #visitatlanta #discoveratlanta #atlantathingstodo #atlantawithkids #exploreatlanta #museumsoftheworld
casabolanos
159 likes • 2.9K views

🦋 Butterfly Room Fun

Don't miss the chance to see live butterflies in a tropical environment. It's a unique experience! TikTok

🌳 Explore the Forest

If weather permits, the outdoor nature trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to see local flora and fauna. Reddit

Did you know how #birds are #preserved in the #smithsonian? #insider #museum
@insider
276.2K likes • 2.8M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Avoid long queues, especially on busy days. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you explore the outdoor trails. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

🦋 Butterfly Room Fun

Don't miss the chance to see live butterflies in a tropical environment. It's a unique experience! TikTok

🌳 Explore the Forest

If weather permits, the outdoor nature trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to see local flora and fauna. Reddit

🎬 Catch a 3D Film

The museum's 3D theater shows educational films daily. Check the schedule for showtimes. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Fernbank Museum is praised for its impressive dinosaur skeletons and engaging 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit, making it a hit with families. However, some visitors feel certain exhibits are outdated and could benefit from modernization and better maintenance, suggesting a need for refreshed displays and improved upkeep.

"I’ve loved coming here since I was a kid! The exhibits are impressive, they have different interactive exhibits for kids, a great 3D theater with educational short films every day, and sometimes they have live animal encounters. When the weather’s nice we love exploring outside!"

Maggie

"Stopped here on a monday. The size of the skeletons in the main atrium is hard to put into words. Makes you appreciate how insignificant humans are in the context of geologic time. This would be great place to take kids. There's 3D nature documentaries included with your ticket. Lots of kids play areas. Lots to see."

Jared Hollins

"This place is very cool, though the inside is pretty small compared to other museums. The kid area upstairs is super fun and we ended spending a large amount of time playing there. We didn't get to explore any of the outside areas due to weather but it was fun for an afternoon."

T Horowitz

What People Like

Impressive dinosaur skeletons
Engaging 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit
Beautiful outdoor forest trails

What People Dislike

Outdated exhibits
Maintenance issues
High admission cost

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fernbank Museum is located at 767 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30307. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options include bus routes that stop nearby. Instagram

Yes, Fernbank Museum offers on-site parking for visitors. There is typically a fee associated with parking, so it's good to factor that into your budget.

Several MARTA bus routes serve the area around Fernbank Museum. Check the MARTA website for the most current routes and schedules to plan your trip.

Fernbank Museum is located a short drive from downtown Atlanta, typically about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. It's a convenient excursion from the city center.

Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a popular and convenient way to reach Fernbank Museum, with designated drop-off and pick-up points.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but general admission typically includes access to the main exhibits and the 3D theater. It's recommended to check the official Fernbank Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing and any special exhibit fees. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the museum's entrance. However, buying tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially secure your preferred entry slot, especially during peak times. TikTok

Fernbank Museum often offers discounts for seniors, students, and children. They may also have special offers for members or through partnerships. Check their website for details on current discount programs. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally and by day of the week. It's best to consult the Fernbank Museum's official website for the most accurate and current operating hours before your visit. Reddit

While not always mandatory, timed entry can be a good strategy to manage crowds. It's advisable to check if timed entry is required or recommended when purchasing your tickets online. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The towering dinosaur skeletons in the Great Hall are a major highlight. Don't miss the immersive 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit and the Georgia's Wild Wonders section showcasing local wildlife. InstagramReddit

Yes, Fernbank Museum offers plenty for adults, including impressive dinosaur exhibits, the 'Invisible Worlds' experience, and the natural beauty of the outdoor forest. The Mayan exhibit is also a draw for those interested in history. Reddit

'Invisible Worlds' is an immersive, multi-sensory exhibit that uses stunning visuals and soundscapes to explore the interconnectedness of life, from microscopic organisms to vast ecosystems. TikTok

Yes, Fernbank Museum features several interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages, particularly in areas like the 'Forces of Nature' exhibit and the children's science lab. Reddit

Absolutely! Fernbank boasts 75 acres of protected outdoor space, including walking trails through an old-growth forest. It's a wonderful way to experience nature. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Fernbank Museum has a cafe that offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. It's a convenient option for refueling during your visit. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, there may be designated areas for picnics, especially if you are visiting the outdoor spaces. It's best to confirm their policy.

The cafe typically offers a range of options, including sandwiches, salads, snacks, and drinks. The menu can change, but it's usually geared towards quick and family-friendly meals. Reddit

Yes, the area surrounding Fernbank Museum has various dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. You can find diverse cuisines within a short drive. Instagram

Museum cafes can sometimes be pricier than off-site options. While reviews suggest the food is good, budgeting for it or bringing your own snacks for before/after your visit might be wise. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Personal photography is generally allowed inside Fernbank Museum for non-commercial use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always check for signage. Instagram

The Great Hall with the dinosaur skeletons is an iconic photo spot. The 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit offers visually stunning backdrops, and the outdoor forest trails provide beautiful natural scenery. Instagram

Tripods and professional photography equipment are usually not permitted without prior authorization to avoid obstructing other visitors and damaging exhibits. Check the museum's specific policy. Instagram

Besides flash photography, some exhibits might have specific 'no photo' signs. Be mindful of these restrictions and respect the museum's guidelines. Instagram

You can capture impressive shots of dinosaur fossils, intricate displays of flora and fauna, immersive exhibit environments, and the natural beauty of the surrounding forest. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fernbank Museum is a fantastic destination for families. The towering dinosaur skeletons are a guaranteed hit, sparking imagination and awe in children. The museum also features interactive exhibits and a dedicated children's science lab designed for hands-on learning and play. Reddit

Beyond the indoor attractions, the outdoor nature trails offer a chance for kids to explore and burn energy in a safe, natural environment. The 3D theater also screens engaging educational films that are perfect for younger audiences. Don't forget to check for any live animal encounters that might be scheduled during your visit, as these are always a highlight for kids. Reddit

Solo Travelers & Adults

While Fernbank is family-friendly, it offers a rich experience for solo travelers and adults too. The impressive dinosaur exhibits and the immersive 'Invisible Worlds' are captivating for any age. If you have an interest in Mayan culture, keep an eye out for their special exhibits. Reddit

For those who appreciate natural history and science, the outdoor forest trails provide a peaceful and educational retreat. You can explore the ancient trees and learn about the local ecosystem at your own pace. The museum's focus on natural sciences ensures there's plenty to engage a curious adult mind. Reddit

Budget-Conscious Visitors

While Fernbank Museum has an admission fee, consider looking for discount days or special offers on their website. Visiting on a weekday morning can also help you avoid the peak crowd times, potentially making the experience feel more spacious. Reddit

To maximize value, focus on the core exhibits like the dinosaur hall and the 'Invisible Worlds' experience. If the weather is good, the outdoor forest trails are a free and wonderful addition to your visit, offering a chance to connect with nature without extra cost. Pack your own snacks or plan for a meal at the cafe to manage food expenses. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Dinosaurs of Fernbank

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is perhaps most famous for its awe-inspiring dinosaur exhibits, particularly the colossal skeletons that dominate the Great Hall. Visitors are immediately greeted by the sheer scale of these ancient creatures, with the Argentinosaurus being a standout, one of the largest dinosaurs ever discovered. These exhibits aren't just static displays; they aim to transport you back millions of years, offering a tangible connection to prehistoric life. The museum strives to present these giants in a way that sparks wonder and curiosity about paleontology. Reddit

Beyond the massive skeletons, Fernbank often incorporates detailed information about dinosaur discoveries, paleontology research, and the environments these creatures inhabited. While some reviews suggest certain exhibits could benefit from updates, the core dinosaur collection remains a powerful draw. The museum's commitment to showcasing these prehistoric marvels makes it a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages. Reddit

For those interested in the science behind the fossils, Fernbank provides context on how paleontologists excavate, study, and reconstruct these ancient beings. The museum's approach aims to educate visitors about the ongoing process of scientific discovery and the ever-evolving understanding of dinosaur life. This blend of impressive visuals and educational content makes the dinosaur exhibits a truly memorable part of the Fernbank experience. Reddit

Exploring 'Invisible Worlds'

The 'Invisible Worlds' exhibit at Fernbank Museum is a modern marvel, designed to immerse visitors in the interconnectedness of life on Earth. This exhibit moves beyond traditional displays, utilizing cutting-edge technology to create a multi-sensory journey. It explores themes of adaptation, evolution, and the delicate balance of ecosystems, from the microscopic to the macroscopic. TikTok

Visitors can expect to be surrounded by dynamic visuals, engaging soundscapes, and interactive elements that bring the natural world to life in unexpected ways. The exhibit aims to reveal the hidden patterns and processes that govern life, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the planet's biodiversity. It's an experience that appeals to a sense of wonder, showcasing the intricate relationships that sustain all living things. TikTok

This exhibit is a testament to Fernbank's effort to stay current with museum technology and educational approaches. It offers a fresh perspective on natural history, moving beyond static displays to create a truly engaging and memorable experience. 'Invisible Worlds' is a key reason why Fernbank continues to be a relevant and exciting destination for those interested in science and the natural world. TikTok

The Natural Beauty of Fernbank Forest

Fernbank Museum is uniquely situated on 75 acres of protected, old-growth forest, offering a serene natural escape right within the city. The Fernbank Forest provides a network of walking trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in a mature woodland ecosystem. This outdoor component is a significant draw, especially for those who appreciate nature and want to experience a different side of the museum. Reddit

Exploring the forest trails offers a chance to see native flora and fauna, learn about the importance of conservation, and enjoy a peaceful walk away from the museum's indoor exhibits. The trails are generally well-maintained, making them accessible for a leisurely stroll. It’s a perfect complement to the indoor exhibits, providing a holistic experience of natural history. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the outdoor trails as a favorite part of their visit, especially during pleasant weather. It’s an opportunity to connect with the local environment and appreciate the biodiversity that exists just outside the museum walls. The forest adds a significant dimension to Fernbank, making it more than just an indoor attraction. Reddit

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