The Natural History Museum of Utah, located on the University of Utah campus, is a top tourist attraction in Salt Lake City. The museum focuses on the natural history of Utah, but there is definitely a heavy focus on dinosaurs, which makes it an ideal place for dinosaur aficionados and kids of all ages. It also makes a great place for a date.
Best and Worst Time to Go to the Natural History Museum of Utah
The museum is open seven days a week but weekdays during the day tend to be pretty busy with visits from local school groups. If you want a quieter experience at the museum, Sundays during the day and Wednesday evenings tend to be the best time to go. The museum stays open until 9:00 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Must See/Do at the Natural History Museum of Utah
While the museum does a good job of rotating in new exhibits, the dinosaurs are here to stay. The designers have spent a lot of time making sure these exhibits extra special, and tourists will see the results of those efforts right away. In addition, make time to see the Native Voices exhibit and listen to stories of Utah's Native Americans at the Storytelling Circle. Finally, be sure to look for the numerous skulls located on the walls. One section in particular shows the evolution of primates through their skulls.
Admission to the Natural History Museum
The museum costs around $10 per person, while children under 2 are free. The museum does have free days about five times a year, but reservations online and tickets are still required.
Parking and Public Transportation to the Natural History Museum
Parking is free and generally isn't stressful. In addition to the parking lot just outside the entrance, there are overflow lots nearby when the museum gets busier, such as during free days. In addition, public transportation is available. The most convenient route is to take the Trax Light Rail Red/University line to the Medical Center, and then catch the University of Utah black shuttle to the museum. In addition, there are bike trails that pass in front of the museum.
Food at the Natural History Museum
There is one tiny cafe at the museum that serves decent sandwiches and soups for around $8. However, if you're looking for a bigger selection, the Corner Bakery Cafe at on Foothill Blvd is a great alternative that is close by.
Insider Tip for Visitors to the Natural History Museum
The best way to the see the museum is from the top down. Once you walk in the museum, take the elevator to the very top and then work your way down. It makes it much easier to see the whole museum. If you do this, you'll want to give yourself two to three hours to see the whole thing.
Author's bio: Clint T. has lived in Utah on and off for the past 20 years and will never grow tired of the great outdoors.
