Virginia Museum of Natural History

The Virginia Museum of Natural History (VMNH) in Martinsville is a Smithsonian Affiliate dedicated to interpreting the natural heritage of Virginia and the surrounding region. The museum features permanent exhibits on paleontology, geology, archaeology, and biology, with a strong focus on local discoveries. Highlights include a life-sized model of a dinosaur, a collection of Native American artifacts from Virginia, and a hands-on discovery room for children. The museum also houses research collections and hosts traveling exhibitions. Visitors can explore the Hall of Ancient Life, which displays fossils from the Triassic and Jurassic periods found in Virginia, and the Hall of the Piedmont, which explains the geological forces that shaped the landscape. The museum's location in Martinsville, a small city in southern Virginia, makes it a cultural hub for the region. The building itself is modern and well-lit, with interactive elements that engage visitors of all ages. A gift shop offers educational toys and books.

Don't miss

• See the full-scale dinosaur skeleton cast and other fossils from Virginia's prehistoric past.
• Explore the Hall of the Piedmont to learn about the region's geology and how it was formed.
• Visit the Discovery Room for hands-on activities like touching fossils and minerals.
• Check out the Native American artifact collection, including tools and pottery from Virginia tribes.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Virginia Museum of Natural History

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Know before you go

• Photography is allowed in most areas, but no flash near delicate artifacts.
• The museum does not have a café, but there are picnic tables outside and restaurants nearby in Martinsville.
• Backpacks are allowed, but large bags may be subject to inspection.
• The Discovery Room is great for kids ages 3–12. Strollers are welcome.

A bit of history

Founded in 1984, the Virginia Museum of Natural History moved to its current 90,000-square-foot facility in 2007. It was designated the official state museum of natural history in 2008 and became a Smithsonian Affiliate in 2013, reflecting its growing reputation.