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Museums #20 in Oslo

Natural History Museum

4.6 · 3,213 reviews
Intellectual and serene
Natural History Museum, Sars' gate 1, 0562 Oslo, Norway
Interesting facts
1

The Botanical Garden was established in 1814, making it one of the oldest in Northern Europe.

2

The museum holds a comprehensive 'Darwin’s Birthday' annual event featuring science lectures and activities.

3

The collections include the 'Ida' fossil, an exceptionally well-preserved 47-million-year-old primate skeleton discovered at Messel Pit.

4

The Palm House dates back to 1868 and features a distinct Victorian-style cast-iron structure.

5

The Geological Museum stores one of the most significant mineral collections in Scandinavia, including rare specimens from the Langesundsfjord area.

Overview

The Natural History Museum in Oslo is Norway's largest collection of natural objects, encompassing both the Botanical Garden and the Zoological and Geological Museums. Located at Tøyen, it is part of the University of Oslo and houses extensive collections of fossils, minerals, and preserved biological specimens. The Botanical Garden spans 150 hectares and features over 5,000 distinct plant species from across the globe. The Zoological Museum displays dioramas of Norwegian wildlife, including moose, reindeer, and predators in simulated natural habitats. The Geological Museum focuses on minerals, meteorites, and the evolutionary history of Earth. Researchers at the institution actively study biodiversity, paleontology, and environmental change. Visitors can traverse the 'Oldenburg' and 'Palm House' structures, which serve as architectural landmarks within the grounds. The site serves as a research hub, educational center, and public recreation space.

Photo spot

The interior of the historic Palm House with its intricate glass and iron framing.

Insider tips

Prioritize the outdoor Botanical Garden on sunny days, saving the indoor museum buildings for when the weather is inclement.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the grounds are expansive and feature gravel paths.

Check the museum's digital event calendar in advance for special guided tours or temporary research exhibits.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to see all collections in a single hour; the scale of the museum and gardens is physically larger than it appears from the entrance.

Good to know

The museum is typically closed on Mondays; the Botanical Garden remains open daily year-round.

Etiquette

Maintain silence in the galleries; touching exhibits is strictly prohibited; keep to marked paths in the botanical gardens.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring to early summer for the peak blooming period in the Botanical Garden.
Address
Natural History Museum, Sars' gate 1, 0562 Oslo, Norway
Website
59.920, 10.772
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsIda fossil, mineral collection, Norwegian wildlife dioramas

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring to early summer for the peak blooming period in the Botanical Garden..

The interior of the historic Palm House with its intricate glass and iron framing.

Close by you'll find Oslo Opera House, The Botanical Garden, Munch.