Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum - Spring charms
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Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum

4.7
·633 reviews·Reno, United States

Explore a world traveler's exotic artifacts and wander through a beautiful arboretum and botanical gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring Mornings

Gardens in full bloom

CrowdLow
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Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum - Spring charms

Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum

Best Time

Spring Mornings

Gardens in full bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a world traveler's exotic artifacts and wander through a beautiful arboretum and botanical gardens.

4.7
(633 reviews)

"A hidden gem offering a fascinating blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allocate Ample Time

Give yourself at least 90 minutes to explore both the museum and the beautiful arboretum.

Check for Special Exhibits

The museum often hosts temporary exhibits like 'Expedition Dinosaur' - check their schedule!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wilbur D. May's World Travels

Wilbur D. May's World Travels

Museum Exhibits

Explore artifacts from a remarkable adventurer's global expeditions, showcasing diverse cultures and achievements.

Expedition Dinosaur: Rise of the Mammals

Expedition Dinosaur: Rise of the Mammals

Museum Special Exhibits

Immerse yourself in an asteroid experience with animatronic dinosaurs and interactive stations for all ages.

Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Outdoor Grounds

Stroll through winding trails and gardens, especially vibrant in late spring and early summer with blooming flora.

Northern Nevada Dragon Lights

Northern Nevada Dragon Lights

Arboretum (Seasonal)

Experience a stunning display of interactive light installations, including a dragon that blows smoke bubbles.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Plan for at least 90 minutes to explore the museum's rich collection and the expansive arboretum. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and gardens without crowds. Reddit

Beyond the Exhibits

Don't miss the chance to wander through the beautiful arboretum and botanical gardens surrounding the museum. It's a perfect complement to the indoor exhibits, offering a serene escape and stunning natural beauty. TikTok

Best Times

When
Spring Mornings
Why
Gardens in full bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Evening (seasonal events)
Why
Magical light displays
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Great time hiking today at Wilbur D. May Arboretum Greenhouse in Reno, NV. With @Kim 👩🏻‍❤️‍💋‍👨🏾. #reno
@kabiliffre
6 likes • 143 views

Allocate Ample Time

Give yourself at least 90 minutes to explore both the museum and the beautiful arboretum. Reddit

Check for Special Exhibits

The museum often hosts temporary exhibits like 'Expedition Dinosaur' - check their schedule! TikTok+1

The goldfish and koi at the Wilbur D. May Museum are a highlight of the trip here!
@renomaycenter
6 likes • 341 views
Because the end…was only the beginning. Back with a blast! The second exciting chapter of Expedition Dinosaur is leaving a big impact at The Wilbur D. May Museum. Rise of the Mammals features an earth-shaking immersive asteroid experience, exciting new animatronic dinosaurs, and fan favorite interactive stations like the iDraw creator where kiddos can see their creations come to life on screen. Fa...
@thisisreno
9 likes • 922 views

Embrace the Outdoors

The arboretum is a highlight! Visit in spring/summer for peak floral beauty. TikTokReddit

Interactive Fun for Kids

Look for scavenger hunts and interactive stations, especially in dinosaur exhibits. TikTokReddit

We went to Northern Nevada Dragon Lights display at Wilbur May Arboretum this week and it was stunning 🤩 Tickets thanks to Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce. I highly recommend going. A lot of the displays are interactive (the dragon blows bubbles filled with some kind of smoke or dry-ice, which has THEE coolest effect when you pop them!) #renothingstodo #reno #dragonlights
@alyssaloha
44 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Allocate Ample Time

Give yourself at least 90 minutes to explore both the museum and the beautiful arboretum. Reddit

Check for Special Exhibits

The museum often hosts temporary exhibits like 'Expedition Dinosaur' - check their schedule! TikTok+1

Embrace the Outdoors

The arboretum is a highlight! Visit in spring/summer for peak floral beauty. TikTokReddit

Interactive Fun for Kids

Look for scavenger hunts and interactive stations, especially in dinosaur exhibits. TikTokReddit

Seasonal Light Displays

Don't miss the Northern Nevada Dragon Lights if visiting during its run - it's magical! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(633 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum for its rich collection of artifacts and the compelling story of Wilbur D. May's adventurous life. The adjacent arboretum is highlighted as a beautiful space for a relaxing walk, especially during bloom seasons. While some note the museum is on the smaller side, the overall experience is considered fascinating and well-presented, with friendly staff enhancing the visit.

"Lovely place, with a rich history and a huge collection of artifacts.
A super friendly staff makes your visit a pleasure and very informative.
Go with a lot of time and check the amazing arboreum around!"

Hanike T.

"Incredible story of Wilbur D. May, showcasing some of his vast collection from his decades of world travel. A very talented adventurer, song writer, rancher, soldier and artist this collection from other cultures he visited is worth your time to visit. We spent about 90 minutes here but you may want to take longer. Consider visiting here as well as walk the beautiful surrounding grounds."

James Bray

"I took my family. We did a scavenger hunt through the exhibits. It was hyped up to me as a major kind of museum. It is small for a museum but large for a rich mans collection of things. It's interesting and the area around the outside of the museum is very nice for a walk. We enjoyed it."

blue crane

What People Like

Fascinating artifact collection
Inspiring adventurer's story
Beautiful arboretum grounds

What People Dislike

Museum can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum and arboretum are located within Rancho San Rafael Park in North Reno. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also serve the park area, so check local transit schedules for routes and times. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum within Rancho San Rafael Park. It's generally sufficient for visitors, especially during non-peak hours. TikTok

While Rancho San Rafael Park is a significant green space, walking from downtown Reno to the Wilbur D. May Museum might be a considerable distance. Driving or using public transport is generally recommended for convenience. TikTok

Reno offers a wide range of hotels and accommodations. The Wilbur D. May Museum is located in North Reno, so looking for lodging in the northern or central parts of the city would be convenient. TikTok

Rancho San Rafael Park is quite large. The museum is a central point, and the arboretum features winding trails. A map of the park can be helpful for exploring beyond the museum grounds. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, especially for special exhibits like 'Expedition Dinosaur.' It's best to check the official Wilbur D. May Center website or call ahead for the most current pricing information. TikTok+1

For general admission, tickets can often be purchased upon arrival. However, for popular special exhibits or during peak times, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot. TikTok+1

The arboretum is generally accessible as part of Rancho San Rafael Park. While museum admission may have a fee, exploring the grounds and gardens is often free, though special events might have separate ticketing. TikTokReddit

Operating hours can differ between the museum and the arboretum, and may also vary seasonally or for special events. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. TikTok

Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or military personnel. Check the museum's website or inquire at the ticket counter for any applicable discounts. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Wilbur D. May's world travels, showcasing his adventures, art, and collections from various cultures. It tells the story of his remarkable life. Reddit

Yes, the museum often features interactive exhibits designed to engage younger visitors, such as scavenger hunts and the 'Dragon Adventure' or 'Expedition Dinosaur' experiences. TikTokReddit+1

The Arboretum offers beautiful walking trails through diverse botanical collections. You can see various trees, shrubs, and seasonal flowers, making it a lovely place for a leisurely stroll. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The combination of historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and the beautiful outdoor space makes it a great destination for families. TikTokReddit

Most visitors spend around 90 minutes to 2 hours to fully explore the museum and take a walk through the arboretum. You might want to allocate more time if you plan to deeply engage with all exhibits or enjoy a longer garden stroll. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use inside the museum, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. Always check for posted signs or ask staff if unsure. TikTok

The Arboretum offers numerous picturesque spots, especially during spring and summer when flowers are in bloom. Look for scenic viewpoints along the trails and near garden displays. TikTokReddit

For personal social media sharing, it's usually fine. However, commercial photography or videography might require special permits. It's best to confirm with the museum administration if you plan extensive filming. TikTok

The Dragon Lights display is highly photogenic, especially at night. Capturing the illuminated dragons, interactive elements, and the overall magical atmosphere is popular. TikTok

Drone usage is typically prohibited in most public parks and attractions due to safety and privacy concerns. It's highly unlikely that drone footage would be permitted at the Wilbur D. May Museum or Arboretum. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum is a hit with families! The museum's interactive exhibits, like the dinosaur displays, keep kids engaged and learning. TikTok+1 Don't miss the scavenger hunts that make exploring the artifacts even more fun. Reddit

Outside, the arboretum offers plenty of space to run around and explore. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, and check for seasonal events like the Dragon Lights for a truly magical experience. TikTok It's a great way to combine educational fun with outdoor adventure.

🌿 Nature Lovers & Garden Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate the outdoors, the Wilbur D. May Arboretum is a must-visit. Wander through diverse botanical collections and enjoy the tranquility of the winding trails. Reddit Spring and early summer are particularly stunning when the gardens are in full bloom. Reddit

Combine your visit with the museum to get a full picture of the Wilbur D. May Center. The arboretum provides a beautiful, natural counterpoint to the historical artifacts, offering a refreshing and scenic experience. TikTok

✈️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers

Delve into the fascinating life of Wilbur D. May, a true adventurer and collector. The museum offers a rich tapestry of artifacts from his global travels, providing insights into diverse cultures and historical periods. Reddit

Each exhibit tells a story, bringing to life the experiences of a man who lived a life of extraordinary exploration. It's a chance to connect with history in a tangible way, surrounded by objects that have traveled the world. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Adventurous Life of Wilbur D. May

Wilbur D. May was a remarkable figure whose life story is central to the museum's narrative. Born into a wealthy Nevada family, he became an accomplished adventurer, world traveler, big-game hunter, aviator, artist, and musician. His expeditions took him to far-flung corners of the globe, from Africa to Asia, collecting a vast array of artifacts and experiences. Reddit

The museum is a direct reflection of his adventurous spirit, showcasing items he gathered during his travels. Visitors can learn about his daring exploits, his artistic talents, and his deep connection to Nevada. The exhibits are designed to immerse you in his world, offering a glimpse into a life of extraordinary exploration and achievement. Reddit

His legacy is not just in the objects he collected, but in the inspiration he provides. The museum serves as a tribute to his multifaceted life and his contributions to understanding different cultures. It's a place where history, adventure, and personal accomplishment converge, making it a truly unique destination. Reddit

Exploring the Wilbur D. May Arboretum

Adjacent to the museum, the Wilbur D. May Arboretum is a sprawling botanical garden offering a peaceful retreat. It features a variety of themed gardens and collections, with winding trails that invite leisurely exploration. The arboretum is designed to showcase diverse plant life and provide a beautiful natural setting for visitors. TikTokReddit

While the museum offers a deep dive into history and culture, the arboretum provides a refreshing contrast with its natural beauty. Depending on the season, visitors can expect to see a range of flora in bloom, from lilacs and daffodils in spring to other seasonal flowers and trees. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing walk, photography, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Reddit

During certain times of the year, the arboretum also hosts special events, such as the popular Northern Nevada Dragon Lights display, which transforms the grounds into a magical nighttime spectacle. This blend of natural beauty and occasional festive events makes the arboretum a dynamic and engaging part of the Wilbur D. May Center experience. TikTok

Family Fun and Educational Experiences

The Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of education and entertainment. The museum's exhibits, particularly those focused on Wilbur D. May's travels, can spark curiosity about the world in young minds. Reddit

To further engage children, the museum frequently features interactive elements. Special exhibits like 'Expedition Dinosaur: Rise of the Mammals' are designed with kids in mind, featuring animatronic dinosaurs and hands-on activities that make learning fun and memorable. TikTok+1 The 'Dragon Adventure' is another example of an interactive experience tailored for younger visitors. Reddit

Beyond the museum walls, the arboretum provides a safe and beautiful space for children to explore. The open trails and natural environment encourage physical activity and discovery. Families can enjoy a scavenger hunt within the museum or simply enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the gardens, making for a well-rounded and enjoyable outing. Reddit

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