Alabama Museum of Natural History: Exploring Alabama's Natural Wonders
Explore Alabama's natural history from dinosaurs to meteorites at the Alabama Museum of Natural History in Tuscaloosa. Open Monday to Saturday.
Located in Smith Hall on the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa, the Alabama Museum of Natural History is the state's oldest museum, founded in 1831. It showcases the natural diversity of Alabama through exhibits spanning the Age of Dinosaurs, the Coal Age, and the Ice Age. Visitors can explore collections of geology, zoology, mineralogy, paleontology, ethnology, history, and photography.
A brief summary to Alabama Museum of Natural History
- 427 6th Ave, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35487, US
- +1205-348-7550
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for closures due to University of Alabama holidays.
- Take advantage of the free parking available in the lot behind Smith Hall for museum visitors.
- Visit the Sensory Sea room on the mezzanine level for a quiet, sensory-friendly space.
Getting There
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Walking
From the University of Alabama campus, the Alabama Museum of Natural History is easily accessible on foot. Smith Hall is located at 427 6th Avenue. From the Ferguson Center, walk north along the main quad, passing the Amelia Gayle Gorgas Library. Continue straight; Smith Hall will be on your left. Allow 5-10 minutes for a leisurely walk. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
The Tuscaloosa Trolley runs from the downtown parking deck to the University of Alabama campus. From the downtown deck, take the Tuscaloosa Trolley's University Shuttle Route. Get off at the stop closest to Smith Hall. Check the Tuscaloosa Transit Authority website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. A single ride fare is approximately $1.00.
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Driving
From I-20/59, take exit 73 for McFarland Blvd. Head west towards the University of Alabama. Exit right onto University Blvd. Follow University Blvd to Hackberry Lane. Turn right onto Hackberry Lane and turn into the second parking lot on your left behind Smith Hall. There are five dedicated visitor parking spaces in the lot behind Smith Hall. Upon arrival, after paying admission, you will receive a parking pass receipt that will entitle you to free parking in the museum visitor parking spaces. Alternatively, a parking deck is located at Campus Drive and Hackberry Lane. The cost for visitor parking in the deck is $1 for the first hour and $2 for each additional hour.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Woods Quad
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The University of Alabama
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Bryant-Denny Stadium
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Bama Bed and Breakfast
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Unique
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Queen City Park
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Tuscaloosa Public Library
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The Alamite, Tuscaloosa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
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Unmissable attractions to see
Smith Hall
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Goldie 1971 - The Fallen Robot
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Paul W. Bryant Museum
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Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum (part of UA Museums)
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