1 / 6
Location
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible with elevators and escalators on every floor, restrooms on every floor, accessible for people with disabilities
Best time
Visit on Saturday mornings for a less crowded experience while still enjoying the full creative atmosphere. The museum wasn't overcrowded on a Saturday morning visit according to recent reviews.
Visitor tip
The museum offers week-long summer break camps with after-camp care options, making it ideal for parents needing structured, creative activities during school breaks. Staff are noted for being particularly supportive and attentive to children.
About North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Museum of NC's geology, flora & fauna. Exhibits on NC's geology, flora & fauna, plus fossil collections, 3D films & live-animal programs.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Natural History Museum
- Exhibits
- Dinosaur exhibits including dueling dinosaurs, whale skeletons including blue whale exhibition, butterfly exhibit, paleontology displays, life-sized prehistoric displays
- Admission
- General admission free (donation-based); 3D movies $6 adults, $5 seniors/students/military, $4 children, $3 members; special exhibitions like Blue Whales exhibit available at additional cost
What visitors say
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is an exceptional place to visit, especially for families with school-age children. It offers an incredible amount of science and historical information, and the best part is that general…
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the best science museum we’ve ever visited! The first thing that impressed me was that the entire main area is free — no tickets are needed to explore all four floors. You only need to…
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh is an absolute gem and a must-visit! When we went, they were hosting a special blue whale exhibition, and it was jaw-dropping. Seeing the enormous skeleton up close for…
From 2,940 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- MOCHA operates a Library Education Arts Program that provides free art projects at Oakland and Berkeley Public Libraries, extending access beyond the museum location
- The museum features unlimited art materials for creative expression, allowing children to create freely without material restrictions
- MOCHA offers week-long break camps with after-camp care options, providing extended educational programming beyond standard museum hours
Other Children's Museums in Raleigh
More Family Fun Nearby
Other venues within driving distance:
Own this venue? Stand out from the competition.
Children's Museums listings that are Featured get seen first by thousands of families every month.
- Priority placement in search
- Photo gallery showcase
- Insider tips from visitors
- Highlighted in dedicated featured section