Zoological Museum of Moscow State University

The Zoological Museum of Moscow State University is one of Russia's oldest and largest natural history museums, located on Bolshaya Nikitskaya Street within the Garden Ring. Its vast collection spans over 4.5 million specimens, from tiny insects to massive mounted skeletons of mammoths and whales. The museum is organized systematically, with halls dedicated to invertebrates, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Highlights include a complete skeleton of a Steller's sea cow (extinct since the 18th century) and a diverse array of taxidermy. The experience is educational and slightly old-fashioned, with classic wooden display cases and detailed labels in Russian and English. What makes it distinctive is its deep connection to Moscow University's research, many specimens were collected by famous Russian explorers like Nikolai Przhevalsky. The museum appeals to families, students, and anyone curious about biodiversity.

Don't miss

• See the complete skeleton of an extinct Steller's sea cow
• Marvel at the life-sized mammoth skeleton in the main hall
• Explore the butterfly collection with thousands of colorful species
• View rare taxidermy of the now-extinct passenger pigeon
• Learn about Russian explorers through exhibits of their collected specimens

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Zoological Museum of Moscow State University

Cheapest way inImagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art General Admission4.2★ · 24 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedNatural History Museum London - Exclusive Guided Museum Tour5★ · 155 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$111 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleMuseum of Anthropology in Mexico City & Chapultepec Tour4.8★ · 49 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$110 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Check opening hours online; closed on Mondays and last Tuesday of each month.
• Photography is allowed without flash for personal use.
• Interactive exhibits and touchable specimens for children.
• Small gift shop sells books, toys, and educational kits.

A bit of history

Founded in 1791 as the university's natural history cabinet, the museum moved to its current building in 1902. It survived the 1812 fire and Soviet era, growing through expeditions across the Russian Empire.