Museum Tours

The Tulane Museum of Natural History collections are research-oriented systematic collections and do not have public displays. Tours are readily arranged for school groups, university classes, interested researchers and other groups interested in the activities of a large, systematic Museum.

A tour lasts approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the number of visitors and their inquisitiveness. Visitors typically receive tours of the Fish, Amphibian and Reptile, Mammal and Bird collections, with the opportunity to view many unique varieties of animals from North America, Africa, South America, the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and even species that are now, sadly, extinct. Tours are very relaxed and informal and questions are actively encouraged.

Because of the uniqueness of the Museum in Louisiana, a tour presents a special opportunity for students to visit and learn about a scientific resource that is mostly unknown to the general public. Students leave with a strong impression about the importance of systematic research collections to the scientific community. Because of the nature of the Museum and it's collections, we recommend that students be at least sixth grade and above, although we will give tours to younger groups. Unfortunately, because of limited space, tours are difficult for us to conduct if the group is much larger than 30 people, although we do have methods of accomodating larger groups if there is strong interest. If you are uncertain about the suitability of the Museum as a tour for your group, the group leader or leaders are encouraged to visit the Museum first, allowing you to make a more informed descision.

To arrange for a tour, an advance visit, or if you have questions about the size or age of your group, please contact Nelson Rios (nelson@museum.tulane.edu) at (504) 394-1711.