Arkansas State Capitol | Little Rock

The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is a state-run institution located in Jackson, Mississippi, dedicated to the exhibition and study of the state's natural heritage.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is a low-profile, concrete structure with a flat roof. Its exterior is primarily light gray concrete, with large glass panels forming sections of the facade, particularly around the main entrance. The landscaping surrounding the building features native Mississippi flora, including trees and shrubs.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated at 2020 Riverside Drive, Jackson, Mississippi, approximately 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) west of the downtown Jackson area. Access is via Riverside Drive, which connects to US Highway 80. Ample free parking is available in a dedicated lot adjacent to the building. Public transport options include the Jackson Transit System bus route 5, which stops within a 0.4 km (0.25 mile) walk of the museum entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1939, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science was initially part of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. It moved to its current location in 1977. The museum's focus is on the biodiversity and geological history of Mississippi, encompassing its diverse ecosystems from the Gulf Coast to the Appalachian foothills.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe exhibits on Mississippi's native wildlife, including a 100,000-gallon aquarium showcasing aquatic species. The museum features displays on paleontology, geology, and the state's various habitats. Interactive exhibits are available for younger visitors. Educational programs and special events are scheduled throughout the year.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located on both levels of the museum. Indoor exhibit areas provide climate-controlled environments. Limited seating is available within exhibit spaces. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the building. No on-site food vendors are present, but vending machines offer snacks and beverages. The adjacent LeFleur's Bluff State Park offers picnic facilities.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded. The best time of year for outdoor observation of native flora and fauna in the surrounding park areas is spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) due to moderate temperatures. No specific tide requirements apply to museum exhibits.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the museum's collection of fossilized whale bones discovered in Mississippi. The museum also houses a preserved specimen of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker, a species now considered extinct by many ornithologists, though its status remains a subject of debate among researchers.

Nearby Landmarks

• LeFleur's Bluff State Park (0.1km West)
• Old Capitol Museum (3.5km East)
• Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (3.8km East)
• Museum of Mississippi History (3.8km East)
• New Capitol Building (4.0km East)