Set in beautiful City Park in central Denver, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science offers a comprehensive collection that is both educational and interactive, making it an ideal destination for families. The museum has a large permanent collection as well as spaces devoted to special rotating exhibits, and the breadth of its collection offers something to all visitors, not just the scientific minded.
Best and worst time to go to the Denver Museum of Nature and ScienceThe museum offers 10-12 free days every year, usually occurring on Sundays and Mondays. These days are at once some of the best and worst times to go. On one hand, they present a great opportunity for those who typically cannot afford admission, but on the other hand they are by nature some of the busiest days of the year, which may hamper your experience. Attending a Monday free day is your best bet to beat the weekend crowds. If you can pay full price, try to go on a midweek afternoon to experience the exhibits in a more intimate atmosphere and at a slower pace.
Must see/do at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
The multi-story "Prehistoric Journey" exhibit is one of the most engaging and informative the museum offers. Starting at more than 3 billion years ago, the exhibit walks you through Earth's natural history through videos, models and samples of extremely diverse plant and animal life. At the end of the tour you have a chance to witness scientists cleaning and examining fossils and artifacts, which will later be included in the exhibit, in real time.
On level 3, check out "Konovalenko: Gem Carvings of Russian Folk Life," a small but fascinating display of traditional Russian scenes cut from various gems. This collection of beautiful, expressive sculputes if the only one of its kind outside of Russia.
Admission to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Adults will pay at least $15 for a day pass to the museum, and children will pay at least $10; students and seniors can get a discounted rate. Members of the museum get free admission at any time, and with several tier levels available, including Individual and Family, this could be a good option to consider. Consult the museum's website for a current list of free community days,
Parking and public transportation to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
The museum provides ample free parking in a surface lot and parking garage near the entrance off of Colorado Boulevard, but on the busiest days you may have to seek parking further afield. You can park along most of the roadways in adjacent City Park, as well as along the right side of Colorado Boulevard. If you prefer public transportation, RTD buses 20, 32 and 40 will drop you at the bust stop at Colorado Boulevard and Montview Boulevard, which is a 10-minute walk from the museum entrance.
Food at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
The T-Rex Cafe on the first floor is the only food option available at the museum, but its large open dining room overlooking City Park is a pleasant place to unwind or refuel for more learning. Prices are average, and you can eat a meal for around $7-12 per person. The full service kitchen usually closes at 2 p.m., but take out options are available until 4 p.m.
Insider tip for visitors to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
One of the special perks of a visit to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science involves getting beyond the exhibit halls. Take the elevator up from the third floor Anschutz Gallery to gain one of the best vista points in the city. From the small fourth floor deck you can look out on City Park and the Denver skyline and to the imposing Rocky Mountains beyond. The deck faces due west, so if you time it right you will witness a glorious sunset over the Rockies.
Julia O'Connor is a full-time editor and part-time freelance writer transplanted from Boston to Denver. She is thriving on the transition and has enjoyed the exploration of both cities and everything in between.
