May Natural History Museum
Discover a world of tropical insects, from the stunningly beautiful to the uniquely bizarre, in this rare and historic collection.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Open daily for easy visits
May Natural History Museum
Best Time
Open daily for easy visits

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a world of tropical insects, from the stunningly beautiful to the uniquely bizarre, in this rare and historic collection.
"This place is amazing! If you are in the area, this place is worth checking out."
🦋 Book Ahead for Off-Season
Visits outside of summer require advance reservations. Don't miss out on this unique collection!
🧐 Not for All Young Kids
While fascinating, the creepy crawlies might not hold a 2-year-old's attention. Consider age appropriateness.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Tropical Insect Collection
Marvel at an unparalleled array of tropical insects, from the beautiful to the bizarre. A true feast for the eyes.

Rare and Ancient Specimens
Discover specimens so rare, even Walt Disney wanted to acquire them. Some date back over a century.

Exquisite Beetle Displays
The collection of beetles is particularly exquisite, showcasing incredible diversity and intricate beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer is Prime Time, But Plan Ahead
A Unique Collection for the Curious
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦋 Book Ahead for Off-Season
Visits outside of summer require advance reservations. Don't miss out on this unique collection!
🧐 Not for All Young Kids
While fascinating, the creepy crawlies might not hold a 2-year-old's attention. Consider age appropriateness.
🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds
The gift shop offers a great selection of cute trinkets and souvenirs to remember your visit.
✨ Mix of Pretty & Creepy
Prepare for a spectrum of specimens, from stunning butterflies to surprisingly large stick insects.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦋 Book Ahead for Off-Season
Visits outside of summer require advance reservations. Don't miss out on this unique collection!
🧐 Not for All Young Kids
While fascinating, the creepy crawlies might not hold a 2-year-old's attention. Consider age appropriateness.
🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds
The gift shop offers a great selection of cute trinkets and souvenirs to remember your visit.
✨ Mix of Pretty & Creepy
Prepare for a spectrum of specimens, from stunning butterflies to surprisingly large stick insects.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the May Natural History Museum for its unique and extensive collection of tropical insects, with many specimens being rare and over a century old. The displays offer a fascinating mix of beautiful and intriguing creatures, making it a memorable experience for enthusiasts. While generally well-received, some note it might not be ideal for very young children.
"This was such a unique & incredible opportunity to see! Our group was so impressed by the vast amount of specimens available for viewing. Some of which were extremely rare, even in the wild. Some specimen were very creepy, some were very pretty, a little bit for everyone! The gift shop had plenty of cute trinkets to buy afterward as well."
Jenee Osgood
"This place is amazing! If you are in the area,tl This place is worth checking out. It's so cool even Walt Disney himself wanted to buy this collection of insects for his theme parks. They have many beautiful bugs from all around the world. Some of the collections are so old the date back to the early 1900's. Coolest display of bugs I have ever seen! The collection of beatles is exquisite. Every bug is unique. They even have a preserved fruit bat! Nice friendly ladies and a neat gift shop at the end of the tour."
K.B.
"Really cool to see all of these things bugs, some of which are over 100 years old! A good mix of pretty and horrifying. You'll see stick bugs bigger than your head that made me cringe, and then in the next case we're beautiful iridescent butterflies that help me recover from the creepy crawlies!
Not super little kid friendly, my 2yo didn't have a great time but he isn't the target audience so that makes sense."
Robert Perez II
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The May Natural History Museum is a roadside collection. During the summer, it's open daily. Outside of summer, visits are by reservation only. Specific directions will depend on your starting point, but it's a destination worth planning for.
Information regarding public transport options is limited. Driving is a common method for visitors, especially if coming from nearby areas. If traveling from further afield, consider the convenience of your own vehicle for flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is open daily during the summer months. Outside of summer, visits are strictly by reservation. It's always best to check their official channels for the most up-to-date hours and reservation procedures.
Yes, if you plan to visit outside of the summer season, advance reservations are essential. During summer, while open daily, checking for any special events or potential capacity limits is advisable.
Specific admission fees are not detailed in the provided information. However, given the unique nature of the collection, it's likely a modest fee applies. It's recommended to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for current pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect an extensive collection of tropical insects, including many rare and ancient specimens. The displays range from beautiful butterflies to fascinating beetles and even preserved fruit bats, offering a mix of the pretty and the intriguing.
While children can find the exhibits interesting, some visitors have noted that very young children, like toddlers, might not have a great time due to the nature of the specimens. It's more geared towards those with a specific interest in entomology or natural history.
Visitors often find it hard to leave, suggesting a visit can be quite engaging. The time spent will depend on your level of interest, but allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the vast collection.
Absolutely! The museum houses specimens so rare that Walt Disney himself was interested in buying the collection. You'll find insects over 100 years old and a particularly exquisite collection of beetles.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The provided information does not mention on-site dining facilities. It's advisable to plan for meals before or after your visit, or to bring your own snacks if permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies are not explicitly stated. However, most museums allow personal photography for non-commercial use. It's always a good idea to check for any signage or ask staff upon arrival to confirm.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧐 Enthusiasts & Collectors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Insect Collection
What sets this museum apart is the historical significance and rarity of its specimens. It's been noted that even Walt Disney himself recognized the value and uniqueness of this collection, expressing interest in acquiring it for his theme parks. This anecdote highlights the exceptional nature of what's on display. The exquisite beetle collection is frequently mentioned as a standout, showcasing intricate patterns and vibrant colors. For anyone with an interest in entomology, natural history, or simply the wonders of the natural world, this collection is a must-see.
While the collection is a draw for many, it's worth noting that the museum's focus on insects might not resonate with all age groups. Some visitors have found that very young children may not be as engaged, particularly toddlers, due to the nature of the exhibits. However, for older children, adults, and enthusiasts, the May Natural History Museum offers an educational and awe-inspiring experience that is hard to find elsewhere. The well-maintained exhibits and the sheer scale of the collection ensure a visit that is both fascinating and hard to leave.
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