Delaware Museum of Natural History

Mission:
To excite and inform people about the natural world through exploration and discovery.

Vision:
One where all parents and teachers in the region consider the Delaware Museum of Natural History as an essential element in every child's development.

About Us:
The Delaware Museum of Natural History opened to the public in 1972 to excite and inform people about the natural world through exploration and discovery. As the only natural history museum in the state, the Museum welcomes more than 75,000 visitors each year to experience an African watering hole, gaze up at a giant squid, encounter a jaguar face-to-face, and marvel at the diversity of shells from around the globe. Gallery highlights also include the only permanent dinosaur collection in Delaware, a simulated coral reef, and a Science in Action paleontology lab. Throughout the year the Museum also hosts several special exhibits on national tour.

Museum researchers maintain our expansive collections of mollusks and birds, including the second-largest collection of birds’ eggs in North America. Scientists from around the world visit the Museum to study specimens and request loans to assist them further in their research.

The interactive Nature Nook features hands-on science activities geared to meet the needs of the Museum’s youngest guests. Educational programs include summer camp, school tours, community outreach visits, homeschool classes, scout activities, and other programs. In addition, visitors can view nature films in the DuPont Auditorium, shop in the Museum Store, enjoy the Butterfly Garden, or hike along the Larry Scott Nature Trail. As a non-profit institution, DMNH relies on the generosity of members, donors, and corporate sponsors to sustain high-quality exhibits and educational programs for the community.