Bell Museum of Natural History: Guide to Collections, Exhibits, and Visiting

Founded in 1872 as the Minnesota Geological and Natural History Survey, the Bell Museum of Natural History in Saint Paul serves as the state’s primary public natural history museum and the University of Minnesota’s outreach arm. The museum combines research-grade collections, immersive dioramas, and interactive exhibits to explain local and global biodiversity. Its signature Wildlife Galleries showcase Minnesota’s birds, mammals, and pollinators, while the on-site digital planetarium and educator-led programs support formal and informal learning. This guide outlines what the museum offers, how it operates, and how to plan a visit.

History and Mission

The Bell Museum began as a university survey that documented Minnesota’s plants, animals, and fossils. Over time, it evolved into a public museum tasked with making natural history accessible to residents and visitors. Its mission centers on understanding the connections among life on Earth, the planet’s systems, and the choices people make. The museum balances research, conservation education, and community engagement, using its collections to illuminate environmental change and biodiversity loss.

Core Mission Statements

• Advance scientific knowledge through research and collections stewardship.
• Foster public understanding of evolution, ecology, and conservation.
• Support learners of all ages through exhibits, education, and digital tools.

Exhibits and Collections

The Bell Museum organizes its offerings into galleries and specialty collections that emphasize Minnesota’s species and global ecosystems. Highlights include dioramas of regional birds and mammals, pollinator exhibits, and displays that connect biodiversity to climate and habitat change. The museum’s research collections include preserved specimens, field notes, and images that scientists and the public can access for study. Together, these resources explain how species adapt, migrate, and respond to environmental pressures.

Notable Galleries and Features

• Wildlife Galleries: Birds, mammals, and aquatic species found in Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
• Our Changing World: Exhibits on climate impacts, conservation efforts, and community science.
• Collections Access: Opportunities to explore specimens and digitized resources by appointment or through programs.

While specific touring exhibits change, the museum consistently prioritizes scientifically accurate interpretation and inclusive storytelling.

Planetarium and Digital Experiences

The on-site digital planetarium offers live and pre-recorded shows that bring astronomy, Earth science, and virtual field trips to life. Programs are designed for families, school groups, and lifelong learners, with topics updated regularly. The museum also provides virtual resources, including online exhibits and educator toolkits, to reach audiences beyond the site.

Planetarium Highlights

• Full-dome shows that simulate the night sky and explore cosmic phenomena.
• Curriculum-aligned school programs that connect with state science standards.
• Accessible formats and sensory-friendly options when available.

Education and Public Programs

Educational initiatives at the Bell Museum span school field trips, teacher workshops, youth camps, and public lectures. Educator-led programs emphasize inquiry, observation, and real-world data. The museum collaborates with the University of Minnesota and community partners to deliver programs that reflect current science and diverse voices. Field experiences, citizen science projects, and at-home activities extend learning beyond visits.

Sample Program Types

• K–12 curriculum-linked field trips with guided galleries and planetarium time.
• Adult lectures and panel discussions on conservation and biodiversity.
• Seasonal events, such as bioblitzes, wildlife walks, and family science days.

Visitor Information and Practical Tips

Located in the Twin Cities, the Bell Museum is generally accessible by car, transit, and bike. Visitor amenities include restrooms, seating areas, and a small shop. Many guests combine a gallery visit with a planetarium show, so timing matters for parking and ticket planning. The museum follows local guidelines on accessibility, face covering preferences, and photography rules. Contact the museum or check its website before traveling for current hours and policies.

Visitor Basics at a Glance

Planning Your Visit

To make the most of a Bell Museum trip, reserve tickets online when possible, especially for planetarium shows and busy weekends. Check the calendar for special events, school holiday hours, and seasonal exhibits. Allow two to three hours for a galleries-only visit, or add an hour for planetarium programming. Families can use activity guides, while educators may schedule class visits or outreach programs well in advance.

Suggested Itinerary Options

• Quick visit: Gallery highlights and a 30–45 minute planetarium show.
• Family visit: Interactive exhibits, a planetarium show, and a hands-on activity.
• Deep dive: Extended galleries, collections access, a planetarium show, and a lecture or workshop.

Research and Collections

Behind the scenes, Bell Museum researchers and collections staff manage one of the Upper Midwest’s most important natural history archives. The holdings include birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish, insects, and plants, many with decades of associated data. Scientists use these specimens to study distribution shifts, disease ecology, and conservation status. Through partnerships and digitization, the museum expands access for researchers, students, and the public while protecting sensitive locations and species.

Research Focus Areas

• Birds and mammals of Minnesota and the Great Lakes region.
• Pollinator ecology and conservation.
• Climate and land-use change impacts on biodiversity.

Community and Partnerships

The Bell Museum works with schools, tribal nations, community organizations, and other science institutions to broaden science access and relevance. Collaborations include joint exhibits, teacher training, and citizen science initiatives. These partnerships help ensure that programs reflect community priorities and incorporate Indigenous knowledge and local perspectives. The museum strives to be a welcoming space where diverse visitors see themselves in science.