University of Colorado Museum of Natural History | Boulder

The University of Colorado Museum of Natural History is located on the University of Colorado Boulder campus in Boulder, Colorado, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is housed within the Henderson Building, a multi-story structure constructed primarily of brick and concrete. Its architectural style is functional and institutional, typical of university buildings from its construction era. The exterior features large windows and a prominent entrance.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated at 15th Street and Broadway Street on the University of Colorado Boulder campus. It is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) south of Boulder's downtown core. Parking is available in the Euclid Avenue AutoPark garage, located adjacent to the museum. Public transport options include the RTD bus lines 10, 15, and 20, which stop at Broadway and Euclid Avenue, a short walk from the museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Henderson Building, which houses the museum, was constructed in 1937. The museum itself was founded in 1902. Its original purpose was to serve as a repository for scientific collections and to support research and education for the university and the public. The collections span various natural history disciplines, including paleontology, zoology, botany, and anthropology.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore exhibits on Colorado's biodiversity, dinosaur fossils, ancient cultures of the Southwest, and entomology. The museum offers educational programs and lectures. Specific exhibits include the Hall of Mammals and the Dinosaur Hall.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited seating is provided within exhibit areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the building. No on-site food vendors are present, but dining options are available on the university campus and in nearby downtown Boulder.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded. For optimal viewing of specific exhibits, check the museum's website for any temporary closures or special display rotations. Lighting conditions are consistent due to indoor illumination.

Facts & Legends

The museum's paleontology collection includes significant fossil finds from the Rocky Mountain region, such as the holotype specimen of Acrocanthosaurus atokensis, though this specimen is currently on loan. A notable artifact in the anthropology collection is a Mimbres pottery bowl featuring a unique depiction of a rabbit.

Nearby Landmarks

• University of Colorado Boulder Campus (0.1km North)
• Fiske Planetarium (0.3km West)
• Boulder Public Library (1.2km Northwest)
• Pearl Street Mall (1.6km Northwest)
• Chautauqua Park (2.5km Southwest)