What is the Maryland Museum of Natural Sciences?
The Maryland Museum of Natural Sciences (MMNS) is dedicated to exploring, understanding, and sharing Maryland’s natural history. Through our museum, collections, programs, classes, field trips, and community activities, we connect people with the natural world.
Where is the Maryland Museum of Natural Sciences?
The Maryland Museum of Natural Sciences is located at 6908 Belair Road, Baltimore, MD 21206.
Is the museum free?
Yes! Admission to the museum is free. Donations are welcome and help support our collections, exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach.
We also offer a wide variety of paid programs, classes, and special events throughout the year. Program fees help support these educational experiences and the museum’s mission.
What can I see at the museum?
Discover Maryland’s natural history at the Maryland Museum of Natural Sciences, where you can explore fossils, geology, wildlife, and more. Our new exhibit, Maryland in the Making: One Billion Years and Counting, takes you on a journey through Maryland’s deep geologic history, from ancient rocks and fossils to the landscapes we know today.
In our second room, explore a selection of specimens and objects from our collections, offering a closer look at the many stories and treasures preserved by the museum.
What are the museum’s hours?
Fall and Winter Hours: November 1 – March 31
Thursday – Saturday: 10 AM–3 PM
Extended Hours: Third Thursday of each month, 10 AM–8 PM
*Hours may change for holidays, special events, or programs, so please check our website before visiting.
Spring and Summer Hours: April 1 – October 31
Thursday–Saturday: 10 AM–3 PM
Members Evening: Third Thursday of each month, 5 PM–8 PM
Do I need to make a reservation to visit?
No reservation is needed for individual visitors during regular public hours. Groups are encouraged to contact us ahead of time at mmns@marylandnature.org so we can plan for your visit. Learn more about Group visits here.
Some programs and special events require advance registration. Please check the individual event listing for details.
Do you offer programs for adults?
Yes! We offer lectures, field trips, classes, workshops, presentations, and other educational programs for lifelong learners, professionals, and educators. Programs cover a wide range of natural history topics.
Do you offer programs for children and families?
Yes! We offer family-friendly programs and activities year-round. Check our events calendar for upcoming opportunities.
Do you offer field trips?
Yes. MMNS offers educational field trips and experiences that allow participants to explore Maryland’s natural history outside the museum. Contact mmns@marylandnature.org for information about group and school opportunities.
Do you offer school programs?
Yes! We provide educational opportunities for students and teachers, including programs and resources designed to bring natural history into the classroom and beyond.
Can I attend a lecture or class without being a museum member?
Yes. Many of our programs are open to the public. Individual programs may have their own registration requirements or fees, so check the event listing for details.
Do you offer virtual programs?
Yes. Some programs are offered online, including our Must Learn Thursdays lecture series. Check our program calendar for upcoming virtual events and registration information.
Can I donate to MMNS?
Yes! Donations help support our museum, collections, exhibits, educational programs, field experiences, and outreach. Every contribution helps us share Maryland’s natural history with our community.
Do you accept donations of fossils, minerals, or other specimens?
We sometimes accept specimens and other natural history materials for our collections, education and outreach, or for sale in the museum store. Because we have limited space and specific collection needs, please contact us before bringing or shipping a specimen. Learn more on our Collections page.
We actively rehome science and nature books. Sales support ongoing educational activities.