World Museum of Natural History

Museum Closure

The museum will be closed for the holidays.

November 24 through November 28 (Reopens December 1)

December 24 through January 2 (Reopens January 4)

The World Museum of Natural History invites you to explore lifelike systematic displays of amphibians, birds, mammals, and reptiles, presented through sculpture and freeze-dry taxidermy.

You’ll also discover one of the world’s largest and finest collections of mineral spheres. Additional exhibits include beautiful gems and minerals, fluorescent minerals, meteorites and tektites from outer space, petrified wood, seashells, and other natural wonders.

FREE admission. The museum remains open to the public without a reservation every Saturday from 2pm to 5pm.

Visits Mondays-Fridays: Schedule a Visit

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When are you open?

Monday–Thursday: 9 am to 4 pm | Friday: 9 am to 12 pm

Reservations are required during the week.

Saturday: 2 pm to 5 pm

No reservations required on Saturdays.

Is admission free?

Yes! Donations are always appreciated to keep our doors open and programs running.

How do I book a field trip or group tour?

Please use the reservation link on this page to book at least one month in advance, or email your inquiry to [email protected].

How long is the tour?

Tours typically last 30 minutes. Visits usually last about an hour to 90 minutes.

Where are you located?

E.E. Cossentine Hall, La Sierra University

4500 Riverwalk Parkway, Riverside, CA

How do I get there?

Enter through the main campus gates on Riverwalk Parkway and stop by the kiosk out front to let our Security team know you're visiting the museum. They can provide you with directions as well as parking instructions.

How many people can visit at once?

The museum can comfortably accommodate up to 30 visitors at a time. Larger groups will be split into smaller groups. A suggested donation of $1 per person is appreciated for groups over 30.

How can I make a donation?

We appreciate your support! Visit our donation page HERE, select “Other,” and type “WMNH” or “World Museum” in the text box to direct your donation to the museum. Every little bit helps!

Need help?

Call (951) 785-2209 or email [email protected]

Collection Highlights

GEMS AND MINERALS:

The mineral displays are frequently rotated and updated. Displays typically include the following: minerals from California, meteorites and tektites, fluorescent minerals, and an impressive display of showy gems.

TREES:

There are more than 100 species of trees that have been naturalized to the campus, which is officially recognized as an arboretum.

PETRIFIED WOOD:

The unique colors of petrified wood are created by the minerals brought in by the water that surrounds the tree once the wood is buried. The collection contains specimens mainly from the Western U.S.

Amphibians & Reptiles:

Our amphibians and reptiles display features turtles, tortoises, lizards, and snakes. The museum has over 90% of known species of crocodilians.

Birds:

The Southeast Asian Bird display is the largest of its kind in the U.S., along with various birds from around the world to see. The museum features fascinating birds of prey: vultures, condors, falcons, hawks, and eagles.

Mammals:

Many of the Asian species featured in this museum do not appear in any other U.S. museum. Also to be seen are different species of primates and carnivores.

Mineral Spheres:

The most beautiful and unique specimens from one of the largest collections of spheres are on display. The large verde antique sphere from Victorville weighs 396 pounds. The museum has more than 1,300 spheres in its collection.