A fascinating collection from eighty years of entomology at UC Davis.

Bohart Museum of Entomology

4.6
·115 reviews·Davis, United States

Discover a world of insects at this free, interactive museum on the UC Davis campus. See live bugs, touch tarantula molts, and marvel at vast collecti...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mid-morning

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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A fascinating collection from eighty years of entomology at UC Davis.

Bohart Museum of Entomology

Best Time

Weekdays, mid-morning

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a world of insects at this free, interactive museum on the UC Davis campus. See live bugs, touch tarantula molts, and marvel at vast collections.

4.6
(115 reviews)

"Super fun looking at different types of bugs! We were able to touch their bugs. Which was super cool!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission! 🎉

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support their research and exhibits .

🤝 Ask to Hold Bugs!

Don't be shy! Staff are friendly and often let visitors hold live insects like stick bugs .

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 115 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Insect Encounters

Live Insect Encounters

Hold fascinating live insects like stick and leaf bugs, and touch tarantula molts. A truly hands-on experience!

Vast Insect Specimen Collection

Vast Insect Specimen Collection

Marvel at shelves of preserved butterflies, beetles, and other fascinating specimens, a treasure trove for bug lovers.

Carnivorous Plants

Carnivorous Plants

Observe intriguing insectivorous plants up close – a unique botanical display that complements the entomology focus.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Impact

This gem offers free entry, making it an accessible adventure for all. While it's an archive for researchers, the public displays are fascinating. Plan for a shorter visit as it's not a sprawling museum, but the interactive elements make it memorable.TikTok

Interactive Bug Encounters

Get hands-on with live insects like stick and leaf bugs! You might even get to hold them if you ask nicely. The museum also features tarantula molts to touch and carnivorous plants to admire. It's a unique experience that delights kids and adults alike.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mid-morning
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, early afternoon
Why
Engaging student assistants
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Did you know this museum is FREE to the public!? 🪲 Check out @bohartmuseum! We have never been to this museum before but we were SO glad we went. We were totally blown away by this amazing Davis gem. One of the best parts of living right next to UC Davis: taking advantage of all of the world class facilities! It’s a public university after all! This is something we always tell people when they...
mydaviscalifornia
14.7K likes • 151.6K views

🎯 Free Admission! 🎉

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support their research and exhibits.TikTokReddit

🤝 Ask to Hold Bugs!

Don't be shy! Staff are friendly and often let visitors hold live insects like stick bugs.Reddit

reddit.com

Finding Insects?

Hi everyone! I'm doing an entomology project photographing insects - does anyone have any suggestion on places to go that have lots of insects? Thank youuu!

reddit.com

Help me impress my kid!

Hi! I have a seven-year-old daughter who has been begging me to visit campus. She thinks having a mom in college is the coolest thing ever. She talks a lot about wanting to go to vet school at UCD. I want to bring her to campus and show her some cool stuff! So far, I plan to…

🤏 Touch Tarantula Molts

Experience the texture of shed exoskeletons – a surprisingly cool tactile exhibit.Reddit

🚗 Parking Challenges

Parking can be scarce nearby; consider public transport or walking if possible.Reddit

reddit.com

How did a grasshopper (and an Entomologist) solve a murder?

Interesting that when they mentioned the Bohart Museum they used a video of a building that had nothing whatsoever to do with UC Davis.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission! 🎉

Entry is free, but donations are highly appreciated to support their research and exhibits.TikTokReddit

🤝 Ask to Hold Bugs!

Don't be shy! Staff are friendly and often let visitors hold live insects like stick bugs.Reddit

🤏 Touch Tarantula Molts

Experience the texture of shed exoskeletons – a surprisingly cool tactile exhibit.Reddit

🚗 Parking Challenges

Parking can be scarce nearby; consider public transport or walking if possible.Reddit

📚 Great for Kids

Toddlers and kids are captivated by the interactive displays and live creatures.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(115 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Bohart Museum's free admission and the unique opportunity to interact with live insects and touch tarantula molts. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, making it a hit with families and bug enthusiasts alike. While some note its small size and potential parking challenges, the overall consensus is that it's a highly engaging and educational gem.

"Super fun looking at different types of bugs! We were able to touch their bugs. Which was super cool!
They were super friendly too!

It's not your stereotypical museum. It's more of an archive of their bugs that they have to pull out. I highly recommend coming here! My toddler loved it!"

Stephanie Anne

"Interesting little museum for insect and bug enthusiasts. They have live insects that you could hold, if you ask. There's a bin with tarantula molts that you can pick up and feel. You can see insectivorous plants (look but don't touch). There's a small gift shop section. The biggest section is their specimens that are available to researchers (not for the general public). Even if you stop by when the museum is closed, there are interesting exhibits in the hallway outside the museum."

Ivan Hsieh

"Bohart Museum is a wonderful place to come and see! There are cool insects to hold and carnivorous plants to see up close. Children are very engaged, and the college student assistants are very knowledgeable. Come visit this museum that has free admission, and leave a donation!"

Kim

What People Like

Free admission
Live insect interaction
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Small size
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located on the UC Davis campus. Public transport options are available, and it's often walkable if you're already on campus. Be aware that parking can be limited and may require payment.Reddit

Parking near the museum can be challenging, with limited spots available. It's advisable to check UC Davis parking information for the most up-to-date options and fees, or consider alternative transportation.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Bohart Museum of Entomology offers free admission to the public, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option. Donations are gratefully accepted to support the museum's operations.TikTokReddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Bohart Museum website or their social media channels for the most current information before your visit. They are often open during weekdays and sometimes on Saturdays.Reddit

As admission is free, advance booking is typically not required. You can usually walk in during their operating hours. However, for group visits or special events, it's always a good idea to contact the museum directly.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore a vast collection of preserved insects, observe live creatures like stick bugs and carnivorous plants, and even touch tarantula molts. The museum also has an active research department.Reddit

Yes, the museum offers interactive experiences, including the opportunity to hold live insects like stick and leaf bugs, and to touch tarantula molts. This makes it very engaging for visitors of all ages.Reddit

Absolutely! Children, including toddlers, are often captivated by the live insects and interactive elements. It's a great educational outing for families.Reddit

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a staff member if you're unsure. Capturing the fascinating specimens can be a highlight of your visit.

The museum is located within the UC Davis campus, which generally strives for accessibility. It's recommended to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and accommodations.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Bohart Museum itself does not typically have a cafe or dining facilities. However, being on the UC Davis campus, there are numerous dining options available nearby, from campus eateries to local restaurants in Davis.

Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks outside of museum exhibition areas to protect the specimens. There might be designated areas on campus where you can enjoy your own refreshments.

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant colors of butterflies, the intricate details of preserved insects, and the unique forms of carnivorous plants offer fantastic photo opportunities. Live insects, when permitted to be photographed, also make for engaging shots.

While personal photography is usually permitted, it's wise to check for any specific rules regarding flash photography or tripods, especially if you're planning a more extensive photo session. Always be respectful of other visitors and the exhibits.

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Bohart Museum of Entomology (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide