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Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Type: History Museums, Museums, Outdoor Activities - Summer, Planetarium / Observatory
10Best Says
A giant skeleton of a blue whale greets you at the entrance to the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, letting you know that you have arrived at a magical place dedicated to the wonders of... Read More
A giant skeleton of a blue whale greets you at the entrance to the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, letting you know that you have arrived at a magical place dedicated to the wonders of nature. Occupying 11 acres in historic Mission Canyon, the Museum of Natural History boasts a beautiful campus, complete with Spanish-style grounds and buildings. Exhibits include a mineral and gem gallery, Chumash Indian cultural center and the much-admired dioramas in the Mammal Hall (among many others). It is also home to the area's only planetarium. For a natural history experience with a seaside twist, visit their associate site on the wharf, the Sea Center.
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Hours:
- Daily 10am-5pm
Admissions:
- Museum Adult $10; Senior (65+) $7; Student (13-17) $7; Child (3-12) $6; Child (0-2) Free
Sea Center Adult $7; Senior (65+) $7; Student (13-17) $7; Child (3-12) $5; Child (0-2) Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Geneva Ives
Santa Barbara Local Expert
- Things to Do with Kids: "In the summer, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is home to the much-beloved Butterflies Alive! exhibit. Check the website for exact dates; the exhibit usually wraps up in early September."
- Romantic Things to Do, Museums: "The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is home to the much beloved Butterflies Alive! exhibit, allowing you to walk through a garden with 1,000 free-flying butterflies."
- Best Attractions & Activities: "Visit the Curiosity Lab with your little one for a chance to examine, touch and draw specimens as well as ask questions of a staff naturalist."
- Best for Things to Do with Kids Because: Taxidermy, glowing minerals, life-sized dioramas, outdoor play space, a planetarium... what's not to love?
- Best for Romantic Things to Do Because: Because leaning is always a turn on, right? But seriously, this museum has a stunning outdoor space that is perfect for romantic walks.
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: This museum is both fun and educational. It has a whale skeleton named "Chad" right out front, incredible exhibition halls and a planetarium!
- Best for Museums Because: This is the place for curious hearts of every age. Check out a giant whale skeleton and catch a show at the planetarium.
