Nature & natural history museums in Massachusetts

The New England Aquarium, situated in Boston, Massachusetts, is a comprehensive marine exhibit that not only houses a variety of aquatic life but also includes the Simons IMAX Theatre and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch. The Whale Watch operates from April to November, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The Harvard Museum of Natural History (HMNH) is a prominent natural history museum situated on the campus of the renowned Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse collections of the museum while also experiencing the vibrant academic atmosphere of one of the world's leading universities.

The Harvard University Herbaria and Botanical Museum are situated within the premises of Harvard University, specifically at 22 Divinity Avenue in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the rich botanical collections and exhibits housed within these institutions.

The Franklin Park Zoo, situated in the city of Boston, Massachusetts, is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This membership signifies the zoo's commitment to the highest standards of animal care and welfare, conservation, education, and guest experience. Visitors can expect a well-maintained and professionally run facility that prioritizes the well-being of its animals.

The Arnold Arboretum is open to the public every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, offering free access to all visitors. This makes it a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy nature at any time of the year. Whether you're an early bird who enjoys the peace of the morning or a night owl who prefers the tranquility of the evening, the arboretum is available for you to explore at your leisure.

Heritage Museums and Gardens, previously known as the Heritage Plantation of Sandwich, is situated at 67 Grove Street, Sandwich, Massachusetts. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The museum and gardens are a testament to the rich history and culture of the area, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore and learn in a serene and picturesque setting.

The DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum is a unique destination located in Lincoln, Massachusetts. It specializes in American art, offering a rich collection of works that reflect the diverse and dynamic nature of the country's artistic output. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, the museum provides an engaging and enlightening experience.

The Elm Bank Horticulture Center is a sprawling 70-acre garden located at 900 Washington Street in Wellesley, Massachusetts. It is home to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society and features expansive open spaces and meadows, several streams and ponds, and various distinct gardens. The garden is a perfect place for nature lovers and those who appreciate the beauty of horticulture.

Garden in the Woods is a botanical garden that spans 45 acres. It is nestled within a forest in Framingham, Massachusetts, in the United States. This serene location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and botanical diversity, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts alike.

Drumlin Farm is a large farm and wildlife sanctuary that spans 291 acres. It is conveniently located at 208 South Great Road (Route 117) in Lincoln, Massachusetts. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike who are interested in exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.

The Rotch–Jones–Duff House and Garden Museum, originally known as the William Rotch Jr. House, is a National Historic Landmark located at 396 County Street in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This historic site is deeply connected to the city's 19th-century dominance of the whaling industry, and today, it serves as a museum that educates visitors about this significant period in American history.

The New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill is a sprawling 171-acre botanic garden and arboretum situated in Boylston, Massachusetts. It is conveniently located approximately 8 miles north of central Worcester in Worcester County, Massachusetts, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The Mineralogical and Geological Museum at Harvard, also known as the Harvard Mineralogical Museum, is a part of the Harvard University campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This museum is one of the three research museums that make up the collection of the Harvard Museum of Natural History.

The Polly Hill Arboretum is a beautiful and historic location situated on Martha's Vineyard at 809 State Road, West Tisbury, Massachusetts, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a variety of plant species in a serene environment.

Stanley Park, located in Westfield, Massachusetts, is a non-profit privately owned park that includes an arboretum and botanical garden. The park is open to the public daily without charge from May to November, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse flora and fauna.

Fort Taber District, also known as the Fort at Clark's Point, is a historic military fort from the American Civil War era. It is located on Wharf Road within the former Fort Rodman Military Reservation in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This fort holds significant historical value and offers a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting site for tourists interested in history and military architecture.

The Capron Park Zoo houses approximately 100 animals, representing a total of 44 different species. This diversity allows visitors to experience a wide range of wildlife, from common to exotic species, all within the confines of the zoo. It's a great opportunity to learn about different animals and their habitats.

The Lyman Estate, also known as The Vale, is a historic country house situated in Waltham, Massachusetts. It is currently under the ownership of the nonprofit organization, Historic New England. This estate offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur of historic American architecture and landscape design.

The Wellesley College Botanic Gardens are situated on the campus of Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. These botanical gardens are a significant attraction for tourists, offering a diverse range of plant species and a serene environment for visitors to explore.

Dighton Rock State Park is a public recreation area and historic preserve situated on the eastern shore of the Taunton River in the town of Berkley, Massachusetts. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Discovery Museum, located in Acton, Massachusetts, United States, is a family-friendly museum that combines elements of science, nature, and play. This hands-on museum offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages, encouraging exploration and learning through interactive exhibits and activities.

Southwick's Zoo is a large, privately owned and operated zoological park located in Mendon, Massachusetts. Spanning over 300 acres, the zoo offers a wide variety of attractions and exhibits for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals and also offers educational programs and interactive experiences.

The Berkshire Botanical Garden is a significant botanical garden that spans across 15 acres. It is situated in the charming town of Stockbridge, Massachusetts, in the United States. This expansive garden offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a wide variety of plant species in a serene and picturesque setting.

Lupa Zoo, located in Ludlow, Massachusetts, is a privately owned 18-acre zoo. The zoo was established by Henry and Joan Lupa, who moved to the United States from Poland in the 1960s. The Lupas initially purchased a farm in Ludlow and began housing a small collection of animals, which eventually led to the creation of the zoo.

Turn Park Art Space is a unique combination of an open-air museum, sculpture park, and performance space. It is situated in the scenic town of West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. This location offers a unique blend of art, nature, and architecture, making it an interesting destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Botanic Garden of Smith College boasts a diverse selection of plant life. This includes woody trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. A highlight of the garden is The Lyman Conservatory, which houses an impressive collection of tropical and subtropical plants. This variety of plant species provides a rich and educational experience for visitors.

The Hadwen Arboretum is a sizable 26-acre forest nestled in the Columbus Park neighborhood of Worcester, Massachusetts. The main entrance to this green oasis is conveniently located on Lovell St. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.

The Mount Holyoke College Botanic Garden is a comprehensive botanical destination located in South Hadley, Massachusetts. It includes the college campus, an arboretum, various gardens, and the Talcott Greenhouse. This diverse collection of botanical spaces offers visitors a wide range of plant life to explore and appreciate.

The Hebert Arboretum, situated in Springside Park in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, United States, is a place where visitors can explore a diverse collection of trees and other plants. The arboretum is set in a natural environment, providing a serene and tranquil setting for those who appreciate nature and its beauty.

The Maria Mitchell Association Aquarium, also known as the Nantucket Aquarium, is a unique marine science center located in Nantucket, Massachusetts. As the only marine science center on the island, it serves as a valuable resource for both locals and tourists. The aquarium is part of the Maria Mitchell Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting scientific education and research. It is situated on the historic site of the former Nantucket Railroad ticket office, right on the shoreline of the Nantucket Harbor.

The EcoTarium, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a museum dedicated to science and nature. It was formerly known as the New England Science Center. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, both permanent and traveling, that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're a science enthusiast or a nature lover, the EcoTarium has something to offer.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum (NBWM) is a museum dedicated to the whaling industry. It is located in the American city of New Bedford. The museum is part of the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, which is a national historic site specializing in whales. This is because the port of New Bedford was one of the most prominent whaling ports in the world during the 19th century.

The Buttonwood Park Zoo, situated in New Bedford, Massachusetts, holds the distinction of being the third-oldest zoo in New England and the 12th-oldest zoo in the United States. This historic zoo, which opened its doors in 1894, is a testament to the rich history and heritage of the region.

The Woods Hole Science Aquarium, located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, is a small public aquarium that is owned and operated by the US government. The National Marine Fisheries Service and the Marine Biological Laboratory are responsible for its operation. Despite its size, the aquarium is rich in marine life and offers a unique experience for visitors.

Stone Zoo, located in Stoneham, Massachusetts, is a medium to small-sized zoo that spans approximately 26 acres. It offers a variety of exhibits and habitats for a diverse range of animals. The zoo is easily accessible and provides an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

The Beneski Museum of Natural History is situated within the campus of Amherst College in Amherst, Massachusetts. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are touring the college or the surrounding area. The museum is a part of the Beneski Earth Sciences Building, which was completed in 2006.

The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, located in Brewster, Massachusetts, is a compact institution that concentrates on natural history and archaeology. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the local natural history and archaeological findings.

Harvard Forest, located in Petersham, Massachusetts, is a 3,000-acre ecological research area owned and managed by Harvard University. This expansive area is dedicated to the study of forest biology and conservation, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a natural environment that is both scientifically significant and beautifully preserved.

The Zoo In Forest Park and Education Center, also known as the Forest Park Zoo, is a nonprofit organization located in Forest Park, Springfield, Massachusetts. The zoo covers an area of four acres and houses a variety of exotic, native, and endangered species. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with a diverse range of animals in a single location.

An intriguing maritime museum with plenty to see for both kids and adults. Highlight: the fishing vessels and fish tanks.