Established in 1871, the University of Nebraska State Museum is the state's premier museum of natural history. The Museum is focused on promoting discovery in natural science, fostering scientific understanding and interpretation of the Earth’s past, present and future and enhancing stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage of Nebraska through world class exhibits, collections and special events.
Mueller Planetarium at the museum enters a new era with Fulldome Digital Shows. Experience immersive high-tech adventures in a true 360-degree projected computer generated virtual environment in our 80-seat domed theater. Audiences can fall through a black hole, witness the beginnings of the universe, fly through Saturn’s rings, swim with whales and much more!Viewers feel like they are part of the unfolding scene, whether it’s on the bottom of the ocean or in some distant part of the universe.
The museum is host to monthly and yearly events for children and families.
- ‘Sunday with a Scientist’ is a series of presentations that highlight the work of scientists, while educating kids and families on a variety of topics related to science and natural history. ‘Sunday with a Scientist’ takes place from 1:30-4:30pm on the third Sunday of each month.
- ‘investigate: Second Saturday Science’ is led by John Winkelsas, a retired chemistry teacher from the Washington D.C. area who volunteered at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Visitors can join John in the science lab to investigate a variety of science and natural history topics through hands-on activities and exploration. ‘investigate: Second Saturday Science’ takes place from 10am – 12:00pm on the second Saturday of each month and is free with regular museum admission.
- ‘Dinosaurs and Disasters’ is Lincoln's most exciting science learning event for children and their families. The 11th annual event will be held Saturday, February 7, 2015 from 9:30am – 4:30pm in Morrill Hall.
- ‘Astronomy Day’ gives children and families the opportunity to interact with amateur astronomers, engineers and physicists to learn about planets, optics, telescopes, space travel, nanotechnology and more through hands-on activities. The 2015 event will be held Sunday, April 12 from 1:30-4:30pm.
The Discovery Gift Shop is located on the main floor in Morrill Hall specializing in unique gifts and souvenirs for the entire family. Find natural history related toys and games, dinosaur and ancient mammal figures, plush animals, large selection of rocks and minerals, t-shirts, books, spectacular jewelry and much more!
