Located in Denver, Colorado, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science invites you to explore the fascinating natural history of the Rocky Mountain region, Earth, and the surrounding universe. As a 716,000-square-foot facility housing over one million objects, this institution offers an immersive journey through science and nature. When you visit, you will encounter diverse core subjects ranging from astronomy and paleontology to geology, zoology, anatomy, and anthropology.
Inside, you can marvel at ancient history in Prehistoric Journey, which features dinosaur skeletons, prehistoric animal skulls, and trilobites. Head to Space Odyssey to board a Fantasy Spaceship simulation and admire a full-scale Mars Exploration Rover replica. Check out the Wildlife Halls to see intricate animal dioramas, or stop by Insects & Butterflies to view 171 Colorado species.
You can also explore Egyptian Mummies, examine colorful crystals and the Alma King rhodochrosite in Coors Gems & Minerals, or admire unique Vasily Konovalenko gem carvings. Children ages zero to eight can dig for fossils and play with water in the Discovery Zone. Whether you are curious about local fauna or outer space, this regional hub delivers engaging education for all visitors.
What to see at Denver Museum of Nature and Science
- Prehistoric Journey featuring dinosaur skeletons and fossils
- Space Odyssey with a Fantasy Spaceship and Mars Rover replica
- Wildlife Halls showcasing expansive animal dioramas
- Coors Gems & Minerals featuring the Alma King rhodochrosite
- Insects & Butterflies displaying 171 Colorado species
Visiting tips
Bring children aged 0 to 8 to the second-floor Discovery Zone to let them uncover fossils with brushes and play in the water area.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Denver Museum of Nature and Science is easy to reach on Denver’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Denver Art Museum and Denver Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Denver travel guide.
See the full Denver travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.