Idaho Museum of Natural History
Discover Idaho's natural wonders, from ancient dinosaurs to local wildlife, through engaging exhibits and interactive fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission during library time!
Idaho Museum of Natural History
Best Time
Free admission during library time!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Idaho's natural wonders, from ancient dinosaurs to local wildlife, through engaging exhibits and interactive fun.
"A happy surprise with a book nook, snake exhibit, and hands-on fun for the whole family!"
🎯 Museum Parking Hack
Use the dedicated lot off the south entrance; follow signs left to a small lot. Tickets? Museum staff can help! :car:
📚 Book Nook & Coloring Fun
Take a break in the cozy book nook and enjoy coloring pages featuring Idaho's flora and fauna. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Exhibit
Explore fascinating fossils and learn about prehistoric Idaho. A must-see for dino enthusiasts of all ages!
Taxidermied Animals
Marvel at lifelike displays of Idaho's diverse wildlife. A captivating glimpse into the region's natural inhabitants.
Interactive Stations
Hands-on learning experiences that bring natural history to life for curious minds. Fun for the whole family!
Idaho State Symbols
Discover Idaho's state flower, bird, and more in a dedicated educational area. Perfect for learning local facts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Perks & Free Entry
Interactive Fun for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Museum Parking Hack
Use the dedicated lot off the south entrance; follow signs left to a small lot. Tickets? Museum staff can help! :car:
📚 Book Nook & Coloring Fun
Take a break in the cozy book nook and enjoy coloring pages featuring Idaho's flora and fauna. :books:
🗺️ Scavenger Hunts Available
Ask staff for scavenger hunts to keep kids engaged and make learning an adventure. :mag:
🐍 Snake Exhibit Surprise
Be prepared for a thrilling, albeit slightly scary, snake exhibit that's both interesting and educational. :snake:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Museum Parking Hack
Use the dedicated lot off the south entrance; follow signs left to a small lot. Tickets? Museum staff can help! :car:
📚 Book Nook & Coloring Fun
Take a break in the cozy book nook and enjoy coloring pages featuring Idaho's flora and fauna. :books:
🗺️ Scavenger Hunts Available
Ask staff for scavenger hunts to keep kids engaged and make learning an adventure. :mag:
🐍 Snake Exhibit Surprise
Be prepared for a thrilling, albeit slightly scary, snake exhibit that's both interesting and educational. :snake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Idaho Museum of Natural History for its engaging exhibits, particularly the dinosaur displays and lifelike taxidermy. The interactive elements and scavenger hunts make it a hit with families, and the dedicated parking and occasional free admission days add to its appeal. Some visitors note it's a smaller museum, but find it packed with educational and fun content.
"It was so much fun! We especially loved when we can touch and feel objects! There was a lot there and it was great to learn! It’s a smaller museum so it doesn’t take long to walk through but it was a happy surprise to see the book nook so you can sit down and read some books. Also cool to see Idaho’s state flower/bird, etc. and the kids loved coloring in that same area. We went during the library time on the last Monday of the month so it was free! There was also a snake exhibit which is scary but interesting! Definitely a cool time! Apparently there is parking specific for the museum which we didn’t know but we still didn’t get a ticket. For parking, when you enter the first entrance of the lot from the south, go all the way down until you see the museum sign and then go to the left and park in that little lot, there. If you happen to park anywhere and get a ticket, take it into the museum and they will take care of it for you."
John Burgoyne
"This place was so fun! So many cool exhibits and artifacts. I loved the taxidermied animals and the fossils they had! The dinosaur exhibit was my favorite! The staff was also very kind and they gave out some scavenger hunts to entertain the kids. 10/10"
Sepehr Honarvarnazari
"The Idaho Museum of Natural History is a solid piece of my childhood, all the times I visited, attended classes, even stayed overnight. I was very happy to take my nephew recently, and even more thrilled that he had so much fun looking at the exhibits, playing with the interactive stations, and running around the grassy area outside. It's unfortunate the parking situation is as it is now, that made it a bit tough and I'm sure deters some would-be visitors, but we made it anyway! Definitely would also appreciate more child-focused programming and classes!"
Blue
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Pocatello, Idaho. Visitors often find the dedicated parking lot off the south entrance to be the most convenient. If you're unsure, follow the museum signs to a smaller lot on the left.
Yes, there is dedicated parking. If you accidentally park elsewhere and receive a ticket, the museum staff can assist you with it.
Pocatello is accessible by car via I-15. The nearest major airport is the Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH), though Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is a larger hub about a 3-hour drive away.
Pocatello has a public bus system, though routes and schedules may vary. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's website for the most up-to-date information on routes serving the museum's vicinity.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, natural history museums typically strive to be accessible. It's recommended to call ahead to inquire about ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is often free on the last Monday of the month during library time, which is a great way to save money. Otherwise, check their official website for current admission fees.
Yes, the museum offers free admission on the last Monday of the month as part of library time. It's always a good idea to check their website for any other special promotions or discounts.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Idaho Museum of Natural History website for the most current information on days and times they are open to the public.
For general admission, advance booking is usually not required, especially during regular operating hours. However, for special events or group visits, it's always recommended to inquire about reservation policies.
Refund policies typically depend on the museum's terms and conditions. If you purchased tickets, it's advisable to review the purchase agreement or contact the museum directly to understand their refund or exchange procedures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the dinosaur exhibit, the lifelike taxidermied animals, and the interactive stations that make learning fun. Don't miss the section on Idaho's state symbols! +1
Absolutely! The museum offers interactive stations, scavenger hunts, and coloring pages that kids love. The exhibits are designed to be engaging for younger visitors. +1
Yes, the museum features numerous interactive stations that allow visitors to touch and feel objects, making the learning experience more dynamic and memorable. +1
You'll discover artifacts and specimens documenting the natural history of Idaho and the Intermountain West, including fossils, local wildlife, and geological information.
Yes, there's a pleasant book nook where visitors can sit down, relax, and read books related to natural history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snacks or plan to dine at nearby eateries in Pocatello.
Pocatello offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to family-friendly restaurants, located a short drive from the museum. Exploring the downtown area can provide many choices.
While some museums allow water bottles, it's generally best to consume outside food and beverages in designated areas or outside the museum to protect the exhibits. Check the museum's policy upon arrival.
Depending on the season and local park availability, there might be picnic areas in nearby parks or public spaces in Pocatello where you can enjoy a meal before or after your museum visit.
Pocatello has many family-friendly restaurants offering diverse cuisines. You can find options like pizza, burgers, and casual American fare that are usually a hit with children.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect delicate exhibits. Always look for posted signs or ask staff.
Yes, you can typically take photos of the dinosaur exhibits for personal use. Capturing these impressive fossils is a popular activity for visitors.
Restrictions usually involve prohibiting flash photography, tripods, or professional equipment without prior permission. This is to ensure the safety and preservation of the artifacts.
The dinosaur skeletons, the detailed dioramas of taxidermied animals, and the interactive displays often make for great photo opportunities.
Short, personal videos for social media are usually allowed, but avoid disruptive filming. For commercial or professional video projects, you'll likely need to contact the museum for a permit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for free admission days, often the last Monday of the month, to make your visit even more budget-friendly. The museum's layout is generally manageable for strollers, and the staff are known for being friendly and helpful, often providing activity sheets to enhance the children's experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even outside of free days, the admission prices are typically reasonable for the educational and engaging content provided. The ability to touch and feel objects, combined with interactive displays, ensures a rich experience without a hefty price tag.
📚 Curious Learners & History Buffs
Beyond the broad scope, the museum offers specific insights into Idaho's unique identity through its state symbols section. The book nook also provides resources for deeper dives into various natural history topics, catering to a desire for knowledge and exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Idaho's Prehistoric Past
Visitors often highlight the dinosaur displays as a favorite, appreciating the scale and detail of the specimens. It’s a fantastic opportunity for both children and adults to learn about paleontology and the geological history of Idaho. The museum's dedication to showcasing these prehistoric wonders makes it a key attraction for anyone interested in natural history.
Beyond the giants of the past, the museum also delves into the more recent natural history of Idaho. You can explore exhibits featuring taxidermied animals native to the state, providing a close-up look at the diverse wildlife that inhabits the region today. These displays are often praised for their realism and educational value, offering insights into the ecosystems of Idaho.
Interactive Learning and Family Fun
To further enhance the family experience, the museum often provides scavenger hunts for children. These activities encourage exploration and active participation, turning a museum visit into an exciting adventure. Additionally, a dedicated book nook offers a quiet space for visitors to relax and read, complemented by coloring pages featuring Idaho's flora and fauna, making it a well-rounded destination for younger guests.
Reviewers consistently mention the positive impact of these interactive elements and child-focused activities. The museum's commitment to providing a dynamic and enjoyable environment for children is a significant draw, ensuring that educational content is delivered in a way that captivates young minds and fosters a love for natural history.
Understanding Idaho's Unique Identity
These displays are often found in areas designed for younger visitors, offering educational and engaging content. They serve as a great supplement to the broader natural history exhibits, providing context about the state's natural heritage and what makes it distinctive.
Visitors appreciate these smaller, focused exhibits for their educational value and the chance to discover specific facts about Idaho. It adds another layer to the museum experience, making it not just about natural history in general, but also about the specific natural and cultural heritage of the Gem State.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit