Connecting people to the wonders of nature for over 100 years
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What’s Happening at the Museum Right Now
The Art of Nature
March 28 - May 31, 2026Scientific illustration brings to life the beauty of nature while deepening our knowledge and enriching connections. Explore the diversity of forms and the fine details of the world around us in this annual spring exhibit featuring works from 52 local artists in a variety of mediums. Every year, The Art of Nature continues to reveal new wonders—just like nature itself—offering fresh inspiration through artwork and engaging programs.
Bright Future Campaign
Join us!We humbly invite every fan of the Museum to join us in building the Museum’s Bright Future as we raise funds to renovate, modernize, and expand Santa Cruz’s oldest museum. The Bright Future campaign will advance our immersive exhibits, programs, and collections, sustaining and deepening the love of nature and learning held by all who visit us. As a transformational investment in our mission, the campaign brings an opportunity to reflect on what the Museum means to each of us, and how it impacts our lives and communities.
Educational Resources
Connecting kids to nature & inspiring future scientists
The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History is a leader in environmental education in Santa Cruz County, serving more than 30,000 children and adults each year. From programs inside our galleries and out in nature, to rentable resources and free curriculum, we are committed to making natural history fun and accessible to the community.
Dig Deeper Into Scientific Illustration
