May Natural History Museum — Attraction in Fort Carson

Warning: Carcinogens and Headaches Included for Free - Mothballs overwhelmed visit as soon as the door was opened

We were really looking forward to visiting the insect museum as a group. It had been recommended for its large insect displays, and from the doorway, the collection looked genuinely fascinating. Unfortunately, that’s as far as we got.

The second we walked in, we were overwhelmed by the heavy, unmistakable smell of mothballs. We were only in the building less than five minutes, but the chemical odor lingered in my head for hours afterward. It was not subtle, and it was not something I would willingly expose children to, let alone stay in long enough to enjoy the exhibits.

What was even more concerning was the employee at the front, who mentioned feeling sick and developing allergies after starting work there. When asked about the smell she said it was needed so "little bugs did not eat the big bugs" there are many other ways to create safe displays without the use of cancer causing chemicals. Air tight displays are a great option for preservation and do not come with the harm currently in use here. She did open the door to let in some fresh air but it was not enough to survive the air.

While I wish we had been able to experience the museum, the use of mothballs, something widely known to pose health risks, is a dealbreaker. After reading other reviews, even 6 years ago people mentioned the smell. It’s disappointing to see such a unique space overshadowed by something avoidable. I would strongly advise against visiting until the issue is addressed.

Note - the bug seen from the highway is not accessible and the museum is quite a ways from...

I have two complaints after visiting this location. I am a naturalist, taxidermist, and have worked in natural history preservation.

My first complaint is I am absolutely appalled at the managements refusal to adhere to Covid-19 health and safety regulations. Virtually none of the visitors in this space were wearing masks. The museum is a one room small enclosed space without any windows or ventilation. There were other guests coughing in this space with out masks. In the museum it is not possible to social distance. When I inquired, the manager simply said there is enough space so it does not matter. This is absolutely not safe or healthy for staff or visitors. Covid-19 is not a hoax. Frankly as someone who has seen first hand Covid-19 death this shows a lack of respect for others and is unsafe. I will never revisit this place or recommend it to others despite my love of the natural world due to the management.

My second complaint is this is a for profit space. The items in this place belong in an actual not for profit museum or educational space, it is really a shame that they charge people money to view a pretty small space. The 'movie' about the collection is from a Fox News coverage recorded from a TV that they charge as a 'film' inside this place. The collection is amazing but the ownership have turned this into a business and are missing the integrity of how to appreciate the natural...

Definitely an impressive collection! The history of John May and his collection was quite interesting. How one person conceived a collection of this magnitude is amazing really, as most of the insects were acquired in very remote areas of the world. And, during the early 20th century I can just imagine how much more remote those areas must have been. At the time, he likely discovered some new species that one would think would take a team of scientists years to capture. It's wonderful that such a treasure has remained in the family which they continue sharing. It's worth the drive to visit. The building itself is small and probably could get busy. A few people were there during our visit and it was impossible not to overhear conversation as those visitors didn't lower their voices as you typically would in a confined space or a museum. I would suggest wearing earbuds to tune out noise if you want to read the history and marvel at the insects. Think we spent two hours here. Would like to return when we have...