Harvard Museum of Natural History, Boston

Differing from a typical museum experience, both the Harvard Museum of Natural History and the Peabody Museum primarily housed objects, specimens, and artifacts for serious academic study, rather than public entertainment. Surprisingly, the Museum of Natural History is one of the most recent additions to the Boston area's museum scene, established in 1998 to make the university's Comparative Zoology, Herbaria, and the Mineralogical and Geological collections accessible to a broader audience.

Among the museum's most renowned collections is the Glass Flowers, which is also one of its most popular attractions. (Interestingly, some visitors, captivated by the incredibly lifelike botanical specimens crafted from glass, wire, paint, and enamel, may inquire, "But where are the glass flowers?") Because of their astonishing realism, a visit to this collection is especially refreshing during the winter months. Where else can you witness desert cacti, tropical orchids, and blue flag irises in full bloom simultaneously?

Naturally, children are drawn to the dinosaur exhibits, large mammals, and meteorites, and adults often share their enthusiasm. These displays can become quite crowded and noisy, particularly on weekends or weekday mornings when school groups visit. An excellent escape is the small balcony situated just above the Great Mammal Hall, where Harvard's splendid collection of North American birds is showcased. You can relax on a bench by a window and sketch the beautiful hummingbirds and warblers or simply marvel at how these tiny, delicate creatures undertake their biannual migrations across great distances.

Why You Should Visit:
A classic museum, thoughtfully curated for its genre. There's simply an abundance of enjoyable exhibits to explore, which is undoubtedly a delightful predicament. The glass flowers are so lifelike that they are practically indistinguishable from the genuine articles. They are an absolute must-see in your lifetime!

Tip:
Keep in mind that the admission fee also grants access to the adjacent Peabody Museum, allowing you to explore one of the world's foremost anthropological collections.