Welcome to the Museum

Macbride Hall

The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History is the second oldest museum in the United States west of the Mississippi River. Established in 1858, the museum has been free and open to the public for more than 160 years housing specimens, objects, and artifacts on display to support learning and exploration.

Learn more about our history 

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Study Hall @ the Museum of Natural History promotional image

Study Hall @ the Museum of Natural History

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 12:00pm
Macbride Hall
The Museum of Natural History welcomes students each week for a study session in our galleries. We'll provide snacks, cushions, and ambiance. You bring your planners, textbooks, or assignments. Together, we'll stay ahead of our goals this semester.
Learn about the race to save one of the world's few remaining cycloramas, right here at the UI Museum of Natural History.

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Laysan Island Cyclorama

The University of Iowa Pentacrest Museums (Old Capitol Museum & The UI Museum of Natural History) serve to strengthen the vital role of both Museums in the educational, research, and engagement missions of the University, enhancing the campus-wide focus on cultural and environmental diversity. 

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The Pentacrest Museums accept donations via the University of Iowa Center for Advancement. Your tax-deductible gift of any size contributes to research, collections care, and innovative learning experiences on and off campus.

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Musk Oxen at UI Museum of Natural History, Mammal Hall photo by John Emigh