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Morrison Natural History Museum Morrison Colorado

4.8
·776 reviews·Morrison, United States

Discover Colorado's ancient past through interactive tours and hands-on fossil digs at this gem of a museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon tours

Fewer crowds, more guide attention

CrowdLow
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Skeleton of sea going dinosaur

Morrison Natural History Museum Morrison Colorado

Best Time

Afternoon tours

Fewer crowds, more guide attention

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Colorado's ancient past through interactive tours and hands-on fossil digs at this gem of a museum.

4.8
(776 reviews)

"This little museum was a favorite find on our latest trip to Colorado. Pioneers in paleontology."

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TIP

🎯 Book Guided Tour Ahead

Highly recommended! Guides make exhibits come alive with stories & Q&A.

💰 Worth the Admission

Though it looks small, the interactive tour is fantastic value.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Fossil Dig

Interactive Fossil Dig

Outdoor Extraction Area

Get hands-on with real fossil extraction techniques. A truly memorable, tactile experience for all ages.

Local Paleontology Discoveries

Local Paleontology Discoveries

Main Exhibit Hall

Explore original and cast dinosaur bones, showcasing the rich paleontological history of Colorado.

Passionate Guide Storytelling

Passionate Guide Storytelling

Throughout the Museum

Experience exhibits come alive through engaging narratives from knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Guided Tour

The Morrison Natural History Museum shines with its interactive guided tours. These aren't your typical museum walks; guides bring fossils and local paleontology to life with passion and storytelling. Booking ahead is recommended, especially if you want to catch a specific time slot or ensure a spot during peak season. Reddit

Embrace the Interactive Experience

Don't be shy about touching! This museum encourages hands-on learning, from the extraction room to outdoor fossil-finding activities. Guides are eager to share their knowledge and answer questions, making it a truly engaging visit for all ages. Reddit

Best Times

When
Afternoon tours
Why
Fewer crowds, more guide attention
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low
When
Fall (post-Labor Day)
Why
Slow season, more personal tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The T.rex senses! #dinotok #dinosaur #accuratedinosaurs #EduTok #LearnOnTikTok #trex
@dinoguy128
169.6K likes • 2M views

🎯 Book Guided Tour Ahead

Highly recommended! Guides make exhibits come alive with stories & Q&A. Reddit

💰 Worth the Admission

Though it looks small, the interactive tour is fantastic value. Reddit

🌿🦖 I got to build a dinosaur!!!! I had an amazing trip to Colorado and got to help put together this incredible Nanotyrannosaurus display at the Morrison Natural History Museum in Morrison, Colorado. I hope you can visit! Is there a museum that’s on your bucket list? 🦖🌿 #dinosaurs #trex #jurassicpark #jurassicworld #morrisoncolorado #colorado #fossils #museum #clevergirl #raptorsquad
cleverfangirl
601 likes • 8.1K views
Welcome to the Morrison Natural History Museum, a small museum full of big discoveries. Stay tuned if you want to join us in enhancing our smaller institution. As we head towards Colorado Gives Day 2024, we will share information about the five separate campaigns we have to support different initiatives for the museum. These are all supported by the Morrison Natural History Museum Foundation, whic...
morrisonmuseum
69 likes • 1.8K views

🤝 Ask Questions!

Guides love to share knowledge and want your opinions. Reddit

🖐️ Don't Fear Touching

Many exhibits are interactive and meant to be touched. Reddit

Check out this must-visit spot for hikes near Denver! Explore 📍Morrison Natural History Museum trail starting from Mount Falcon East Trailhead. Follow this short trail with interpretive signs leading to a an interesting history museum. Don’t forget to save this gem for future adventures and share it with your fellow hiking friends ! Happy trails, and may your adventures be filled with wonder a...
littleradadventure
507 likes • 61.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Guided Tour Ahead

Highly recommended! Guides make exhibits come alive with stories & Q&A. Reddit

💰 Worth the Admission

Though it looks small, the interactive tour is fantastic value. Reddit

🤝 Ask Questions!

Guides love to share knowledge and want your opinions. Reddit

🖐️ Don't Fear Touching

Many exhibits are interactive and meant to be touched. Reddit

📍 Post-Red Rocks Visit

Perfect stop after a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(776 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Morrison Natural History Museum for its incredibly engaging and informative guided tours, led by passionate and knowledgeable staff. The interactive nature of the exhibits, including hands-on fossil digging, is a major highlight for all ages. While the building may appear small, the depth of learning and the quality of the experience far exceed expectations, making it a highly recommended stop.

"This place is amazing! The tour was interactive and informative. Our guide was awesome! Made sure to ask us questions and wanted our thoughts and opinions."

Paige M

"I was blown away. This little museum was a favorite find on our latest trip to Colorado. Pioneers in paleontology. We loved the interactive tour! It was so nice to be told it was okay to touch. Our guide was very informative. Loved every second."

Leah Waldron

"Went here with my partner after seeing a show at Red Rocks for the first time. Nobody else was queued up for the 3pm tour, they explained this was the start of their slow season (9/22). Our tour guide, Kieran was clearly very passionate about the fossils and history, gave friendly explanations, and answered all of our questions. We had a great time learning about the local archeological discoveries, and the gift shop is worth a walk through!"

Kyle Connoy

What People Like

Engaging guided tours
Interactive exhibits
Passionate staff

What People Dislike

Perceived small size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Morrison, Colorado, a short drive from Denver. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip here with a visit to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, which is in close proximity. Reddit

Public transportation options to Morrison can be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access to the museum. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Many visitors find it convenient to visit the Morrison Natural History Museum before or after attending a concert or event at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. They are geographically close, making it an efficient pairing for a day trip. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally available near the Morrison Natural History Museum. It's advisable to check for any specific parking instructions upon arrival or on their official website.

The drive from downtown Denver to the Morrison Natural History Museum typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is typically around $18 per person for the guided tour, which is highly recommended. While it might seem a bit pricey for a small museum, reviewers consistently state the interactive tour makes it well worth the cost. Reddit

While walk-ins are possible, booking your guided tour in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot and ensure availability, especially during busier periods. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Morrison Natural History Museum website for the most current information on days and times. Tours often have specific start times. Reddit

Information on discounts for specific groups (e.g., children, seniors, military) is best found on the museum's official website or by contacting them directly. The standard admission covers the highly praised guided tour. Reddit

The museum experience is significantly enhanced by the guided tours, which are a core part of their offering. It's strongly advised to participate in a tour to fully appreciate the exhibits and the expertise of the guides. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tours are highly interactive and informative, led by passionate guides who share stories and facts about local paleontology. You'll learn about Colorado's prehistoric past and get to ask questions. Reddit

Yes! The museum encourages hands-on learning. You'll have opportunities to touch fossils and even try your hand at fossil extraction techniques, making it a very engaging experience. Reddit

The museum is fantastic for all ages, especially families. The interactive nature of the tours and the hands-on activities make it engaging for children, while adults will appreciate the depth of knowledge shared. Reddit

A visit, including the guided tour, usually lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. However, you might spend a bit longer if you engage deeply with the guides or explore the gift shop. Reddit

The museum often features an 'extraction room' where you can see workers carefully uncovering fossils. They also offer outdoor fossil-finding activities, providing a unique, hands-on paleontological experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

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. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disturb them or the exhibits. Reddit

The interactive fossil dig area and the displays featuring local dinosaur bones are popular spots for photos. The guides themselves can also be great subjects if they're comfortable, as they add a personal touch to your visit. Reddit

Yes, you can typically take photos during the guided tour. The guides often pause at key exhibits, giving you opportunities to capture the displays. Just be respectful of the group and the guide's presentation. Reddit

While personal photography is usually permitted, professional or commercial photography might require special permission. Avoid using tripods or large equipment that could obstruct pathways or other visitors. Reddit

Visitors often share photos of the dinosaur skeletons, the fossil extraction process, and themselves participating in the hands-on activities. Pictures with the enthusiastic guides also capture the spirit of the museum. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Morrison Natural History Museum is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive guided tours are a huge hit with children, as guides make learning fun and engaging. The opportunity to touch fossils and participate in hands-on digging activities provides a memorable, tactile experience that kids will talk about long after the visit. Reddit The museum's focus on local discoveries also makes it relatable and exciting for young explorers eager to learn about the ancient creatures that once roamed Colorado.

🤓 Curious Adults & History Buffs

For adults interested in paleontology and local history, the Morrison Natural History Museum offers a surprisingly deep and engaging experience. The expert guides provide detailed insights into the geological development of the area and the significance of local fossil finds. The interactive extraction room and the chance to learn about the scientific process firsthand are particularly appealing to those who appreciate the intricacies of paleontological research. Reddit It's an excellent stop for anyone looking for an educational and intellectually stimulating outing.

🚗 Day-Trippers from Denver

If you're looking for a unique addition to a day trip from Denver, the Morrison Natural History Museum is an ideal choice. It's conveniently located near other popular attractions like Red Rocks Amphitheatre, making it easy to combine into a single outing. Reddit The museum offers a focused, enriching experience that won't take up your entire day, leaving ample time to explore other nearby sights or enjoy the charming town of Morrison.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Power of the Guided Tour

The Morrison Natural History Museum's guided tours are consistently highlighted as the star attraction. Unlike many museums where you wander independently, here, passionate guides like Kieran and Connor transform exhibits into captivating narratives. They don't just present facts; they share stories, comparisons, and fun facts, bringing millions of years of paleontology to life. Reddit This personalized approach, where guides are qualified beyond undergraduate degrees, ensures a deep dive into the local geological and paleontological history of Colorado. Visitors rave about how the displays 'came to life' thanks to the guides' knowledge and storytelling. Reddit

These tours are designed to be highly interactive. Guides encourage questions, welcome opinions, and foster an environment where learning is a two-way street. This makes the experience particularly engaging for families and curious minds of all ages. The guides' enthusiasm is infectious, making even complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting. Reddit It's this dedication to an engaging, educational, and personal experience that sets the Morrison Natural History Museum apart and earns it such high praise from visitors.

Hands-On Paleontology

One of the most unique aspects of the Morrison Natural History Museum is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Visitors are not only encouraged but invited to touch the exhibits, a refreshing departure from the 'do not touch' policies common in many museums. This tactile approach allows for a more profound connection with the ancient world. Reddit

The museum features an active extraction room where visitors can witness the meticulous process of uncovering fossils from rock. Even more exciting, guests often get the chance to try their own hand at this delicate work, either in the lab or in an outdoor area. This provides a tangible experience of what paleontologists do, making the science feel real and accessible. Reddit This interactive element, combined with the knowledgeable guides, creates a memorable and educational adventure that goes beyond passive observation.

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