University of Colorado Museum of Natural History — Attraction in Boulder

The Univ. of Colorado Museum of Natural History is small, and free, but still has plenty to enjoy. They hold classes and children's activities, so check their schedule before you go. There were only a few other people attending when I visited, so my adult son and I could take our time and explore. They have fossil displays. One extensive display came from the campus dig site, a variety of stone tools were discovered when the campus was being built.

They have the Cosmic Cafe (it was not open when we visited), it was housing a display of garments made of recycled materials that was very interesting.

I did not see a handicapped entrance, although there is an elevator inside. The museum covers three floors, with lots of stairs. Perhaps there is a ramp somewhere else? You would have to call to find out. There are a number of benches to rest on throughout the museum.

We spent just over an hour and saw everything we were interested in. It would take longer if you stopped to read every display sign.

This is an old university, and has that classic architecture of stone, brick, and tile. It's beautiful.

I've included some photos of the Rockies which are very nearby. It had snowed the night before (in May!) and the mountains...

I was a little disappointed that there was an abundance of construction right in front of the building when I was there (August 2024) and no clear way of how to reach the museum. Better and clearer signage would have certainly helped. Still, this museum is a thoroughly pleasant delight. There were hardly any crowds, owing to the construction most likely, and the exhibits provided both pleasure and entertainment. The dinosaur exhibit is probably the most popular, and I appreciated the information about not just the dinos themselves but how their bones and tracks are found. I already know a lot about the geologic history of Colorado, but it was nice to see it displayed so comprehensively. I also quite adore the cafe/rest area downstairs, with dazzling antique furniture that has a European sheen to it, as well as a topographical model of Antarctica, surrounded by cogent information about how scientists survive in that climate. Though small, the museum is free and...

The staff at the counter was friendly and the price can't be beat; it is free (though there is a box for contributions). Free coffee (served in ceramic mugs) is even available downstairs.If you are from an area with major paleontology museums or if you are comparing this to a major Natural History museum you might be disappointed, but for a small university museum the dinosaur exhibit alone is pretty extensive for not a fraction of the price, but for free. Did I mention it is free?If you are traveling with small dinosaur enthusiasts in particular, they can actually spend up to a couple of hours with the hands-on exhibits. We live in a major world's city, but also a part of the world that is lacking in major dinosaur digs, so our 6-year-old daughter was quite pleased and not ready to leave after an...