Discover exhibits of local forests, wetlands, and grasslands.Use our Santa Cruz trip itinerary planner to add Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History and other attractions to your Santa Cruz vacation plans.
Find Prometheus, the live California King Snake.
See and hear bees in our observation beehive.
Grind acorns in the Ohlone room.
Touch a sea star and hermit crab.
Climb on the back of our life-sized grey whale.
Explore the vibrant hues of the Pollinator Garden.
Gaze at the giant sea cow fossil.
Visit our natural history book and gift shop.
The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History has been bringing the delights and wonders of the natural world to Santa Cruz residents and visitors for over 100 years. From its early beginnings at the Santa Cruz Light House, the Museum collections and displays have been housed in various locations in the City. The Museum has made its home in the Seabright neighborhood since 1932, where it continues to bring engaging exhibits and programs to school children and the public alike.
Our Mission: "Connecting people with nature and inspiring stewardship of the natural world."
FREE DAYS: First Friday of every month
ADMISSION:
Adults | $4
Seniors & Students | $2
Under 18 | Free
Members | Free
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Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History reviews
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This is a beautiful, but smallish, museum right on the ocean. Its displays and exhibits were interesting and informative. Great incorporation of native american information that was very...
This is a beautiful, but smallish, museum right on the ocean. Its displays and exhibits were interesting and informative. Great incorporation of native american information that was very... more »
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I visited Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History to hear the local artist Ann Thiermann speak. She painted the mural at the museum and has painted local motives all her life. The staff and volunteers...
I visited Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History to hear the local artist Ann Thiermann speak. She painted the mural at the museum and has painted local motives all her life. The staff and volunteers... more »
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Didn't actually go in but it's a dang beautiful spot to hang or walk around. Beautiful plants with many labeled with information cards. There's a little couple row theater looking area and the giant whale sculpture just across the street from Seabright beach. If you're going to the beach you should check it out. Or not. But it's there and I enjoyed myself for a bit today after having driven and walked past for years
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Insightful, wonderful, and exciting experience for my kids and myself. You feel connected to your land and history. Ode..to the Ohlone!
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