This museum is closed temporarily.
The Southern Vermont Natural History Museum is situated in a picturesque location at the Hogback Mountain Scenic Overlook on Route 9 in West Marlboro, Vermont. This location not only offers a rich collection of natural history exhibits but also provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The museum is surrounded by the Hogback Mountain Conservation Area, a protected forest land spanning over 600 acres, offering views of three states.
The Southern Vermont Natural History Museum was established in 1996 and is centered around the Luman Ranger Nelson Natural History Collection. This collection is one of the largest of its kind in the northeast, representing 250 species of native birds and mammals. The museum's founder, Ed Metcalfe, intended for the museum to serve as an educational resource for local communities and visitors to the area.
The exhibits at the Southern Vermont Natural History Museum are primarily focused on a taxidermy collection. However, the museum also offers a variety of small hands-on exhibits for children, a mineralogy exhibit, and a variety of native live animals. This diverse range of exhibits makes the museum an engaging and educational destination for visitors of all ages.
Nature & Natural History Animals Children Geology Zoo
We don't have information about the opening hours of Southern Vermont Natural History Museum.
7599 Route 9 East, Marlboro
No exhibitions in Southern Vermont Natural History Museum have been found.
Southern Vermont Natural History Museum has 1 rating.
The Southern Vermont Natural History Museum in Marlboro offers visitors an informative look at the local flora and fauna. The museum houses a collection of taxidermy animals native to the region, providing an up-close view of wildlife that might be difficult to observe in nature. Many visitors appreciate the educational value, particularly for children, as it offers hands-on experiences and interactive displays.
The museum's strength lies in its representation of Vermont's natural history, with exhibits covering various ecosystems and geological features. The raptor center, featuring live birds of prey, is often highlighted as a standout attraction. Some visitors note that the museum is relatively small, which can be seen as both a positive (easy to navigate) and a negative (limited scope) depending on expectations.
While the exhibits are informative, some reviewers mention that parts of the museum could benefit from updates or renovations to enhance the overall experience. The gift shop is noted as having a good selection of nature-related items and educational materials.
The museum's location within a scenic area adds to its appeal, with some visitors combining their trip with outdoor activities in the surrounding landscape. However, its somewhat remote location might require some planning for out-of-town visitors.
Overall, the Southern Vermont Natural History Museum provides a solid educational experience about local ecology and wildlife, though it may not offer the expansive collections found in larger urban museums. It's particularly well-suited for families and those with a specific interest in Vermont's natural environment.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.