The Virginia Museum of Natural History, founded in 1984, is the state's natural history museum located in Martinsville, Virginia. It is a significant institution that offers a wealth of knowledge and insight into the natural history of the state and beyond.
The museum boasts several award-winning publications and is affiliated with the prestigious Smithsonian Institution. It houses an impressive collection of more than 22 million items, providing a comprehensive overview of natural history.
The Virginia Museum of Natural History showcases a variety of award-winning permanent and temporary exhibits. These exhibits offer visitors a chance to explore different aspects of natural history in an engaging and informative manner.
Nature & Natural History Animals Geology Children
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 16:00 |
Sunday | Closed |
Please note that the museum will be CLOSED to visitors on the following days during the 2024-25 holiday season.
Wednesday, November 27
Thursday, November 28 (Thanksgiving Day)
Tuesday, December 24
Wednesday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Tuesday, December 31
Wednesday, January 1
Otherwise, the museum will operate on its normal schedule listed below.
0 – 2 | Free |
3 – 17 | US$5.00 |
18 – 59 | US$10.00 |
60+ | US$5.00 |
College Students | US$5.00 |
Museum Members | Free |
FREE for EBT card holders (more information and requirements below)
FREE for members of ASTC participating institutions (more information and requirements below)
Group Admission Rates (10 or more people)
$5 for ages 18-59
$3 for ages 3-17, seniors 60+, and college students
FREE for children under 3
FREE for museum members
21 Starling Ave, Martinsville
No exhibitions in Virginia Museum of Natural History have been found.
Virginia Museum of Natural History has 1 rating.
The Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville offers visitors an engaging experience exploring the natural history of Virginia and beyond. The museum's exhibits are well-designed and informative, covering a range of topics from paleontology to geology. Many visitors appreciate the dinosaur displays, particularly the impressive Acrocanthosaurus skeleton. The museum also features exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems, providing insight into Virginia's natural heritage.
The museum is praised for its educational value, making it suitable for both adults and children. Interactive elements and hands-on activities throughout the exhibits enhance the learning experience. The staff is generally described as friendly and knowledgeable, often available to answer questions and provide additional information.
While the museum receives mostly positive feedback, some visitors note that it is relatively small compared to natural history museums in larger cities. This can be both an advantage (easy to navigate) and a drawback (limited scope) depending on visitor expectations. A few reviewers mention that some exhibits could benefit from updates or expansions.
The museum's gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs and educational items, which is appreciated by many visitors. The facility is typically described as clean and well-maintained, with good accessibility for visitors with mobility issues.
Overall, the Virginia Museum of Natural History provides a solid educational experience focused on natural history, particularly appealing to families and those interested in Virginia's geological and biological past. While not as expansive as some larger institutions, it offers a comprehensive look at its subject matter within a manageable space.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.