The Bell Museum of Natural History in Saint Paul is Minnesota’s official natural history museum, featuring stunning exhibits on the state’s wildlife, fossils, and natural landscapes. Home to iconic dioramas and a state-of-the-art planetarium, the museum offers immersive experiences that explore the wonders of nature and the cosmos.
Science Museum
Bell Museum of Natural History
590 Google Reviews
I really enjoyed this museum. There’s an entry fee, so you might want to buy your ticket online ahead of time to save some time. The parking lot is small. When we arrived, there weren’t any spots available, so we had to park a bit down the street in front of a big field and walk to the museum. There are lots of exhibits, but I think the mammoth is the star of the show. It was interesting to see what beavers used to look like; they looked like giant rats to me, lol.
We held our wedding ceremony and reception at the Bell Museum and can’t recommend it as a venue enough! The Bell is a beautiful location that has proved to be a picturesque location for capturing our event in photos, the staff are all kind courteous and professional, and our guests were obsessed with over how cool of a venue it was for a wedding.
Laura and Korra were exceptionally helpful when it came to planning and hosting the event. Laura walked us through the process of planning step-by-step so that when the big day came it ran exactly to plan and we had zero issues whatsoever. Korra provided excellent day of support and was helpful in answering all of our questions as the event unfolded.
If you are planning a wedding or event that involves children as guests, or adults who just want to have something fun to do between the festivities, we can’t recommend the Bell Museum enough. You will have zero regrets, and your guests will rave over the fun and inviting venue.
What a phenomenal place to spend time on a cold snowy day with two young men on Spring break. The boys were entranced with all the exhibits. It’s very thoughtfully done and is self guided. We come here often. Don’t miss the live exhibit of amphibians and the planetarium show.
very interesting science museum with awesome dioramas of minnesota nature. the planetarium movie “we are guardians” was fun and informative. love the cute gift shop items (not too expensive)!
Informative, educational, and a wide variety of exhibits. Accommodating, spacious, and gorgeous gardens. Wonderful gift shop. An excellent time for any science lover.
So glad I stopped in to explore the Bell Museum during my travels on Friday morning.
My first visit at its new location on the edge of the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus that opened in July of 2018 (I know, better late than never). The exhibits are quite exceptional.
With its relocation from Minneapolis, the museum was expanded significantly to include a planetarium, education wing, and touch & see lab. The landscaping was also upgraded with sustainable native plants, a geology area, and a solar station.
The best part was watching the staff and volunteers in action sharing their knowledge with excited kids who showed up with parents, grandparents and school teachers.
Made me smile big time.
“If you have knowledge, let others light their candles to it.” ~ Margaret Fuller
My first visit at its new location on the edge of the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus that opened in July of 2018 (I know, better late than never). The exhibits are quite exceptional.
With its relocation from Minneapolis, the museum was expanded significantly to include a planetarium, education wing, and touch & see lab. The landscaping was also upgraded with sustainable native plants, a geology area, and a solar station.
The best part was watching the staff and volunteers in action sharing their knowledge with excited kids who showed up with parents, grandparents and school teachers.
Made me smile big time.
“If you have knowledge, let others light their candles to it.” ~ Margaret Fuller
My husband and chose the Bell Museum for our wedding and had an outstanding experience start to finish. Our guests continue to tell us how much they enjoyed the ceremony in the planetarium, the chance to spend the evening exploring the exhibits, stargazing on the observation deck, and the seamless experience provided by the Bell team. I would highly recommend the Bell Museum for folks looking for a special venue. Laura, Korra and made sure everything was smooth so we could be in the moment.
I’m so impressed by this museum! The staff and volunteers are so knowledgeable, the building is new, the exhibits are fascinating, and there are interactive activities. I will definitely be visiting again!
