Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Explore ancient fossils, native wildlife, and cosmic wonders at the newly renovated Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Free admission for locals!
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Best Time
Free admission for locals!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient fossils, native wildlife, and cosmic wonders at the newly renovated Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
"WOW! The exhibits are so interactive and entertaining for kids and adults alike."
🎯 Free Resident Weekends
Cleveland residents get FREE admission on Saturdays & Sundays! Proof of residency required.
🚗 Smart Parking Options
Try street parking near law/business schools to avoid garage fees.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Hall
Exhibition Hall
Roar with excitement among towering dinosaur skeletons and ancient fossils. A must-see for all ages!
Wildlife Center
Outdoor Area
Meet rescued native Ohio animals like bald eagles and coyotes in a naturalistic outdoor setting.
Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Journey through the cosmos with captivating shows, including special Pink Floyd experiences.
Nature Photography Gallery
Second Floor Gallery
Marvel at stunning, award-winning nature photography that captures the beauty of the natural world.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Admission Days
Parking Smarts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Resident Weekends
Cleveland residents get FREE admission on Saturdays & Sundays! Proof of residency required. +1
🚗 Smart Parking Options
Try street parking near law/business schools to avoid garage fees.
🎟️ Book Planetarium Tickets Online
Planetarium tickets are cheaper online, though still a bit pricey. [^Reviews]
✨ Interactive Exhibits
Engage with hands-on displays perfect for kids and curious adults. [^Reviews]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Resident Weekends
Cleveland residents get FREE admission on Saturdays & Sundays! Proof of residency required. +1
🚗 Smart Parking Options
Try street parking near law/business schools to avoid garage fees.
🎟️ Book Planetarium Tickets Online
Planetarium tickets are cheaper online, though still a bit pricey. [^Reviews]
✨ Interactive Exhibits
Engage with hands-on displays perfect for kids and curious adults. [^Reviews]
📸 Photography Exhibit
Don't miss the impressive nature photography on the second floor. [^Reviews]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cleveland Museum of Natural History's extensive renovations, highlighting its interactive exhibits and engaging displays that appeal to both children and adults. The Wildlife Center and photography gallery are frequently mentioned as highlights. However, some find the planetarium seating suboptimal and the general admission price a bit high for the overall experience, with a few missing the older museum's traditional dioramas.
"This is my first visit since the remodel and all I can say is, WOW! The exhibits are so interactive and entertaining for kids and adults alike. The 3D movie was entertaining and the wildlife area is fantastic! My only complaint is the planetarium. While the planetarium show was great and the presenter was awesome with answering questions after the program, the seating was a major drawback. I seem to recall planetarium that had seating in a circle so everyone could have the best view of the show. Now, the chairs are in rows and one needs to occasionally crane their neck to see what is happening (when sitting in the 3rd from back row all the way to the side). Apparently the middle back is the best view but those are quickly taken. I have to believe there is a better way to arrange the seating so everyone has a good view while also being comfortable."
Kelley Kauffman
"Great place for a family fun! You even get a outdoor adventure with seeing bald eagle, owls, cats, coyotes. Very surprised to see outdoor adventure.
Employees are extremely kind and helpful. There is a cafeteria and souvenir shop, they also offer hands on area for kiddos, and classroom settings. What is equally exciting is the mini art gallery of photography.
Get ready to spend a fun filled day. Highly recommend."
Kristin L
"This is a very nice and clean museum. I believe they just redid it or some of it. I think it would be more enjoyable with kids. My favorite parts were the animals, although I think some of them shouldn’t be held in captivity… especially in Cleveland when the temperatures can get extremely hot. I also enjoyed the gallery on the second level. They have some awesome photography on display. I wish we were staying in Cleveland longer to enjoy the Pink Floyd music in the planetarium 😍 tickets are cheaper to buy online, although they still aren’t cheap. I think the price is a little high for what you’re getting."
Katie Robb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland, OH 44106. It's easily accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors opt for street parking near the law and business schools to save on garage fees.
There is a parking garage on site with hourly rates. Alternatively, street parking can often be found near the law and business schools.
Yes, the museum is located in University Circle, which is well-served by RTA bus lines. Check the RTA website for specific routes and schedules.
Maps are typically available at the information desk upon arrival. You can also often find digital maps on the museum's official website.
Parking validation policies can vary. It's best to check with the museum directly or look for signage in the parking garage for any available discounts or validation programs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices can vary. However, Cleveland residents can enjoy FREE admission on Saturdays and Sundays. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for planetarium shows, as they can be cheaper. +1 [^Reviews]
Yes, Cleveland residents get free admission on weekends. Discount tickets for planetarium shows are often available when purchased online. +1 [^Reviews]
Museum hours can vary by day and season. It's always best to check the official Cleveland Museum of Natural History website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, tickets are generally available for purchase at the museum. However, buying online in advance is recommended, especially for planetarium shows, to secure your spot and potentially get a better price. [^Reviews]
Yes, the museum offers various membership levels that provide benefits like free admission, discounts, and special event access. Check their website for details on Cleveland Museum of Natural History membership options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the impressive Dinosaur Hall, the interactive Wildlife Center featuring native Ohio animals, the captivating Planetarium shows (including Pink Floyd!), and the stunning Nature Photography Gallery. +3 [^Reviews]
Absolutely! The museum features many interactive and hands-on exhibits that are perfect for children, making it a great family-friendly destination. [^Reviews]
The planetarium seating is arranged in rows, and some visitors find that seating in the middle back offers the best view. However, these seats are popular and fill up quickly. [^Reviews]
Yes, the museum boasts over 2 acres of outdoor visitor areas, including the Wildlife Center where you can see native Ohio animals. [^Reviews]
The museum offers a variety of hands-on and interactive displays designed to engage visitors of all ages, from fossil digs to science experiments. [^Reviews]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafeteria where you can purchase food and drinks. [^Reviews]
Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's advisable to check the museum's guidelines or contact them directly to confirm.
Being located in University Circle, there are numerous dining options nearby, ranging from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for non-commercial use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always check for posted signage.
Yes, the museum features an impressive nature photography gallery on the second floor, showcasing stunning work from talented photographers. [^Reviews]
The Dinosaur Hall, the Wildlife Center, and the modern architecture of the renovated Visitor Hall are all great spots for memorable photos. +2
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the Dinosaur Hall for awe-inspiring skeletons and the Wildlife Center to see native Ohio animals up close. The Planetarium also offers engaging shows that can be fascinating for children, though it's worth checking show content for age appropriateness. Remember that Cleveland residents can enjoy free admission on weekends, making it an even more budget-friendly family adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond free admission days, consider street parking near the law and business schools to save on garage fees.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the building itself, the Nature Photography Gallery on the second floor showcases incredible work that can inspire your own photographic endeavors. [^Reviews] For wildlife shots, the Outdoor Wildlife Center provides a chance to capture images of native Ohio animals in a naturalistic setting. Remember to check for any restrictions on flash photography to protect the exhibits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Renovation
+2The renovation aimed to enhance visitor engagement and showcase the museum's collections in innovative ways. The new Visitor Hall, in particular, has been praised for its beauty and architectural design, even earning international recognition.
+1While the modern approach offers a wealth of information and interactive displays, some long-time visitors have noted a shift from the older museum's layout, with a preference for the former distinct exhibit rooms and dioramas. Nevertheless, the updated museum provides a dynamic and engaging environment for exploring natural history. [^Reviews]
Balto: A Canine Legend
After his heroic journey, Balto was saved from a sideshow by a Cleveland businessman and lived out his days in Ohio. His preserved remains are now a poignant exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, offering a tangible connection to this remarkable canine's story.
Seeing Balto's exhibit provides a unique glimpse into a piece of history that resonates with many, blending animal welfare with historical significance. It's a touching reminder of the bond between humans and animals and the enduring legacy of courage.
The Planetarium Experience
Beyond standard astronomical presentations, the museum also hosts special events, including unique Pink Floyd laser shows, which have garnered significant interest.
While the shows themselves are highly praised, some visitors have noted that the planetarium's seating arrangement, with chairs in rows, can make it difficult for everyone to have an optimal view, especially from the sides or further back rows. Securing a spot in the middle back is recommended for the best experience. [^Reviews]
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