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University of Colorado Museum of Natural History

Explore natural and human history at the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History, home to over four million artifacts and specimens.

4.5

Located on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, the Museum of Natural History houses an extensive collection of artifacts and specimens. With exhibits spanning anthropology, zoology, paleontology, and more, the museum offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to University of Colorado Museum of Natural History

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for information on current exhibits and events before your visit.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
  • The Discovery Corner is a great place for kids to learn and play.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the University Memorial Center (UMC), walk west towards Broadway. The Henderson Building, which houses the museum, is located on the east side of Broadway, between 15th and 16th Streets. Note that access to the museum is impacted by the Hellems Renovation Project until January 2026.

  • Public Transport

    The Broadway and Euclid RTD bus stop (#12433) is conveniently located next to the museum. Several bus routes serve this stop, including the DASH, FF1, FF2, and SKIP. A single ride fare is $3. Check the RTD trip planner for specific bus lines and schedules.

  • Driving

    Visitor parking is available in the Euclid AutoPark, located just east of the UMC. The parking fee is $1.75 per hour for the first three hours and $3.00 per hour after that on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.. On weekday evenings and weekends, there is a flat fee of $3.00. The parking lot in front of the Museum (Lot 208) is available during evenings (after 5:00 p.m.) and on weekends for $3.00 (exact change required). Limited street parking is available in the residential area west of Broadway. Parking is limited to two hours during the week.

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Discover more about University of Colorado Museum of Natural History

The University of Colorado Museum of Natural History, established in 1902, is home to over four million artifacts and specimens, making it the most extensive natural history collection in the Rocky Mountain region. The museum is located in the Henderson Building on the CU Boulder campus. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including anthropology, botany, entomology, paleontology, and zoology. Visitors can explore the history of the Boulder Valley with exhibits showcasing ancient stone tools and learn about the region's diverse ecosystems. The museum also features a Discovery Corner for young visitors with hands-on exhibits. Rotating exhibits and special events provide ongoing opportunities for learning and engagement. The museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and family programs throughout the year. Note that the CU Museum is temporarily closed for reorganization due to the Hellems Building reconstruction project and is scheduled to reopen on January 8, 2026.

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