Garth and Jerri Frehner Museum of Natural History
A free, interactive natural history museum on the SUU campus, offering hands-on exhibits and educational fun for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Garth and Jerri Frehner Museum of Natural History
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, interactive natural history museum on the SUU campus, offering hands-on exhibits and educational fun for all ages.
"Small but fantastic natural history museum, well worth the visit for its interactive exhibits and free admission!"
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
This museum is completely free! Enjoy a fantastic educational experience without spending a dime.
🔬 Microscope Magic
Don't miss the microscopes! They're set up with intriguing items for a close-up look.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Microscope Discovery Station
Peer into the unseen world with microscopes showcasing fascinating specimens. A truly engaging experience for all ages.
Interactive Sand Landscape
Build and shape your own terrain with this dynamic, augmented reality sand table. Unleash your inner geographer!
Magnetic Marble Run Wall
Challenge your engineering skills on this captivating wall of magnets and tracks. Fun for kids and adults alike.
Glow-in-the-Dark Rocks
Discover the magic of minerals that come alive under UV light. A dazzling display of geological wonders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Fun
Interactive Learning Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
This museum is completely free! Enjoy a fantastic educational experience without spending a dime.
🔬 Microscope Magic
Don't miss the microscopes! They're set up with intriguing items for a close-up look.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
While small, the interactive exhibits can easily fill 1-2 hours, especially with kids.
🤝 Student Guides
University students are often on hand to share insights and answer questions about the exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Alert!
This museum is completely free! Enjoy a fantastic educational experience without spending a dime.
🔬 Microscope Magic
Don't miss the microscopes! They're set up with intriguing items for a close-up look.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
While small, the interactive exhibits can easily fill 1-2 hours, especially with kids.
🤝 Student Guides
University students are often on hand to share insights and answer questions about the exhibits.
🌱 Seed Library
Explore the unique seed library for a touch of botanical discovery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about this small but high-quality natural history museum, praising its free admission and engaging interactive exhibits like microscopes and a magnetic marble run. It's considered a fantastic and worthwhile stop, especially for families, offering a delightful learning experience that leaves a lasting positive impression.
"Small but fantastic natural history museum. They have two microscopes set up with lots of interesting items to view. There is a magnetic marble run wall. There are children's books to read, rocks that glow under UV light, many taxidermied animals, etc. The museum is free and well worth a visit."
Jessica Scofield
"Small, but very entertaining museum.We spent 2 hours there with kids: microscopes, build your own landscape with interactive sand, mechanical wall challenge, seed library, and more kept them entertained. Absolutely worth the visit."
Sergei
"Free museum inside University Science building; great for small children with interactive activities! University students available to answer questions or discuss artifacts. Highly recommend!!"
Danyelle Warner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located within the University Science building on the Southern Utah University campus in Cedar City. Parking is generally available on campus, though it's best to check SUU's parking regulations for the most current information.
Yes, parking is available on the Southern Utah University campus. Visitors should be aware of any campus parking restrictions or fees that may be in effect.
As it's located within a university science building, it is generally expected to be accessible. However, it's always a good idea to contact the museum or university directly for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Garth and Jerri Frehner Museum of Natural History offers free admission to all visitors, making it an accessible attraction for everyone.
Operating hours can vary as it's a university-affiliated museum. It's highly recommended to check the official Southern Utah University website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
While the museum is free, it is quite small. For larger groups, it might be best to contact the museum in advance to inquire about capacity and any potential arrangements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a variety of natural history exhibits focusing on the region, including taxidermied animals, glowing rocks, interactive displays like a magnetic marble run, and microscopes with interesting specimens.
Absolutely! The museum is highly praised for its interactive elements that keep children entertained, such as the microscopes, build-your-own landscape sand table, and the marble run.
Many exhibits are designed to be interactive, encouraging touch and engagement, especially the sand table and marble run. Always follow any posted signage regarding interaction.
The museum focuses on educational programs, often with university students available to discuss artifacts and share knowledge, enhancing the learning experience.
Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the museum thoroughly, especially if you engage with the interactive exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for non-commercial purposes. However, it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions or ask staff if you're unsure, especially if using flash.
The glowing rocks under UV light, the taxidermied animals, and the interactive displays like the marble run and sand table offer great photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Interactive Learning for All Ages
Beyond these larger installations, the museum features two microscopes readily available for use, stocked with a variety of interesting specimens. This provides an intimate glimpse into the natural world, from insect parts to rock formations. The presence of university students often on-site to assist and discuss exhibits further enhances the educational aspect, turning a casual visit into a learning opportunity. This blend of interactive fun and accessible knowledge makes the museum a unique destination.
A Community Treasure
Reviewers consistently praise the museum for being 'well worth a visit' and leaving them 'wanting more,' suggesting a high satisfaction rate. The inclusion of a seed library adds another layer of community engagement and educational outreach. It's a place that punches above its weight, offering a rich and engaging experience that belies its modest size and free admission.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit