The museum houses a massive skeleton of a Southern Mammoth discovered during the construction of a local freeway.
It holds a significant collection of historical citrus labels, documenting the region's once-dominant orange industry.
The research facility curates over 2 million archaeological and biological specimens.
The museum grounds include an authentic mid-19th-century blacksmith shop.
It is a certified repository for paleontological resources recovered from federal lands within the county.
The San Bernardino County Museum is a regional research and education center focusing on the cultural and natural history of the Inland Empire. The facility houses extensive collections in archaeology, paleontology, history, and the natural sciences. Its paleontology department is particularly notable for a significant collection of Ice Age fossils, including mammoth remains found in the local area. The history galleries display artifacts related to regional Native American cultures, early pioneer settlers, and the development of local agriculture. Outdoor features include an exploration garden showcasing native plant species and historical mining equipment. The museum serves as a repository for county-wide historical records and biological specimens. Rotating exhibitions frequently highlight regional art and local socio-economic history. The facility functions as both a public museum and an active research hub for scholars.
In front of the large mammoth exhibit in the main gallery.
Check the official calendar for weekend educational workshops or paleontologist guest talks.
Prioritize the outdoor exploration garden if visiting during cooler morning hours.
Ask staff about current temporary exhibits, as they change frequently throughout the year.
Do not overlook the outdoor displays near the parking area, as they contain significant historical machinery.
Closed on Mondays.
No food or drink allowed in the exhibit halls; flash photography is generally prohibited in the artifact galleries.
