Absaroka Mountains | Livingston MT

Information

Landmark: Absaroka Mountains
City: Livingston MT
Country: USA Montana
Continent: North America

Absaroka Mountains, Livingston MT, USA Montana, North America

The Hastings Museum is a comprehensive natural history and cultural museum located in Hastings, Nebraska.

It houses a diverse collection of exhibits spanning natural sciences, local history, and art.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is a single-story structure constructed primarily of red brick. Its architectural style is utilitarian, featuring a central entrance with a prominent sign. The interior is divided into multiple exhibition halls, each with varying lighting conditions to suit the displays.

Location & Access Logistics

The Hastings Museum is situated at 1300 North Colorado Avenue in Hastings, Nebraska. It is approximately 2.5 kilometers north of the city center. Ample free parking is available in the adjacent lot. Public transport options include the METRO Bus Route 3, which stops directly in front of the museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was founded in 1926 by William F. Hastings, a local businessman and naturalist. Its original purpose was to house his extensive collection of natural history specimens and artifacts. The building itself was constructed in stages, with significant expansions occurring throughout the 20th century.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore exhibits on local wildlife, including taxidermied animals native to the Great Plains. The "Sandhills Journey" exhibit details the unique ecosystem of the Nebraska Sandhills. The museum also features a collection of pioneer artifacts and a rotating display of art from regional artists. The "Discovery Room" offers interactive activities for children.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shaded areas are present in the outdoor spaces. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally reliable within the museum. No on-site food vendors are present, but several fast-food restaurants are located within a 1km radius.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded. For optimal lighting on the taxidermy displays, midday visits are recommended. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable artifact within the museum is the "Hastings Meteorite," a significant iron meteorite discovered in the region. Local lore suggests that the meteorite fell during a particularly violent thunderstorm, though scientific records do not corroborate this specific detail.