Burpee Museum of Natural History Tours

Burpee Museum of Natural History showing interior views
Burpee Museum of Natural History featuring interior views
Burpee Museum of Natural History
Burpee Museum of Natural History featuring interior views
Burpee Museum of Natural History featuring interior views


Explore four floors of natural history exhibits, including one of the best-preserved and most complete juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons in the world.

Visit Burpee Museum of Natural History to learn about Rock River’s ecology and see many fascinating artifacts dating to prehistoric times. The museum is famous for its paleontological projects, including a “teenage” triceratops, whose bones were discovered in the badlands near Ekalaka in Montana.

Jane: Diary of a Dinosauris the museum’s centerpiece exhibit. The display is one of the best examples of a juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex ever found. Jane’s fully restored 21-foot (6.5-meter) skeleton is believed to be about 66 million years old. Learn about the expedition that led to this incredible discovery in the Hell Creek Formation, located in eastern Montana.

The realistic Carboniferous Coal Forest exhibit represents the local landscape, amphibians and insects as they would have appeared 300 million years ago. The prehistoric carboniferous coal forest is two stories tall and contains life-size replicas of giant insects. Listen to the sounds of a building tropical rainstorm as you explore this amazing display.

Learn about the history of Native Americans in The First People exhibit. The exhibit contains a full-size wigwam, a domed dwelling once used by Native American tribes. Climb into a traditional dugout canoe or hear Native American stories at the video kiosk near the exhibit’s exit.

Windows to Wildernessis a reproduction of a common Rock River Valley environment. The exhibit contains live and mounted wildlife in realistic landscapes. With many interactive components, Windows to Wilderness is popular with young visitors. Discover how the earth was formed in GeoScience, another museum highlight.

Burpee Museum of Natural History hosts events year-round, including discussions with experts and educational workshops. Find the museum next to Rock River in downtown Rockford, Illinois. It is open every day, excluding major holidays. All four floors of the museum have wheelchair and stroller access.

With outstanding permanent exhibits and alternating displays, Burpee Museum of Natural History is perfect for a morning or afternoon visit. In the evening enjoy a show at Coronado Performing Arts Center.

Plan a trip to see Burpee Museum of Natural History

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Motel 6 Rockford, IL
Capital O Clayton House Motel Rockford Near Airport
Riverview Inn & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Burpee Museum of Natural History

Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront

Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront

3.5 out of 5
416 S Main Street, Rockford, IL
Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront
Baymont by Wyndham Rockford

Baymont by Wyndham Rockford

3 out of 5
662 N Lyford Rd, Rockford, IL
Baymont by Wyndham Rockford
Riverview Inn & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

Riverview Inn & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

3 out of 5
700 W Riverside Blvd, Rockford, IL
Riverview Inn & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection
Cozy home in Rockford 
Sleeps 8

Cozy home in Rockford Sleeps 8

Rockford
Cozy home in Rockford Sleeps 8
Alpine Inn Rockford

Alpine Inn Rockford

2.5 out of 5
4404 East State Street, Rockford, IL
Alpine Inn Rockford
Cerro Vista Estate/Indoor Pool/Hot Tub/Game Room

Cerro Vista Estate/Indoor Pool/Hot Tub/Game Room

Rockford
Cerro Vista Estate/Indoor Pool/Hot Tub/Game Room
Capital O Clayton House Motel Rockford Near Airport

Capital O Clayton House Motel Rockford Near Airport

2.5 out of 5
4800 N 2nd St, Loves Park, IL
Capital O Clayton House Motel Rockford Near Airport
 Hidden Gem SLEEPS 10+! Ask about Mon-Thurs SPECIAL! Stay 2 nights, get one free

Hidden Gem SLEEPS 10+! Ask about Mon-Thurs SPECIAL! Stay 2 nights, get one free

Rockford
Hidden Gem SLEEPS 10+! Ask about Mon-Thurs SPECIAL! Stay 2 nights, get one free
Motel 6 Rockford, IL

Motel 6 Rockford, IL

2 out of 5
4850 E State Street, Rockford, IL
Motel 6 Rockford, IL
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Burpee Museum of Natural History

At the Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford, Illinois, visitors can enjoy various activities, including nearby golf courses, entertainment venues, and ice skating rinks. Explore local attractions like the Potawatomi Trail, engaging play spaces, and the fascinating Wonderland of Discovery. The museum itself offers a rich history experience, making it a perfect destination for families and history buffs alike.

Food and drinks

For a unique experience, visit McEachran Homestead Winery, 13 miles from the museum, for a romantic vibe and delightful wines. Alternatively, enjoy craft spirits at Barnstormer Distillery, just 6 miles away, perfect for a fun evening out after exploring the museum.

Shopping

The Burpee Museum of Natural History offers a delightful shopping experience nearby. CherryVale Mall, Quilter's General Store, and Pepper Creek Gift & Flower Shop are all located 6 miles away, perfect for picking up unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

The BMO Harris Bank Center, located 0.6 miles from the Burpee Museum, offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. For relaxation, visit Weis Morris Day Spa Salon, 5 miles away, providing rejuvenating body treatments. Enjoy the outdoors at Newburg Village Golf Course, 8 miles away, perfect for a leisurely round of golf.

Nightlife

After visiting the Burpee Museum, catch a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, just 0.3 miles away, for a dose of culture and romance. For some family fun, head to Skateland or The Cherry Bowl, both offering thrilling arcade adventures about 5 and 6 miles away, respectively.

Find the best attractions near Burpee Museum of Natural History

When visiting the Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford, Illinois, you'll find a variety of attractions to explore, including urban parks, nature preserves, and other history museums. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, the museum offers exciting exhibits and insights into natural history. Be sure to check out the museum’s offerings and nearby points of interest to enhance your city experience and make the most of your trip.

  • Anderson Japanese Gardens: Just 2 miles from the Burpee Museum, these stunning gardens offer a tranquil escape with beautifully landscaped grounds, serene water features, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families and romantic strolls.
  • Rockford Art Museum: Located a mere 0.1 mile away, this museum showcases a rich collection of American art, highlighting local artists and cultures. It’s a must-visit for art lovers looking to immerse themselves in the region's artistic heritage.
  • Discovery Center Museum: Also 0.1 mile from the Burpee Museum, this interactive children's museum provides hands-on exhibits that engage young minds. It's a fun, educational experience for families and a great way to spark curiosity in kids.

Best time to go to Burpee Museum of Natural History

Visitor numbers around Burpee Museum of Natural History is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Burpee Museum of Natural History is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January20.8°F (-6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February23.5°F (-4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March37.0°F (2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July72.3°F (22.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December28.9°F (-1.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Burpee Museum of Natural History

To save money during your visit to the Burpee Museum of Natural History in Rockford, Illinois, consider exploring nearby free attractions such as CherryVale Mall, Rock Cut State Park, and Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve. Traveling between November and January can yield lower accommodation costs. Use Expedia to find eco-friendly hotels by filtering for "Eco-certified" options, and sort by price for the best deals. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities through an Expedia package for added savings, and join their One Key membership for exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Burpee Museum of Natural History are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Burpee Museum of Natural History with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.