Virginia Museum of Natural History

The Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville, Virginia is a place where scientific research about the Commonwealth of Virginia's natural history and public understanding merge. Exhibits, family festivals, education programs for all ages, and publications translate the Museum curators' scientific research into easily understood language and concepts. During your visit, don't miss the Museum Store and the PALEO Cafe, serving Seattle's Best Coffee®.

The mission of the Virginia Museum of Natural History is: To interpret Virginia's natural heritage within a global context in ways that are relevant to all citizens of the Commonwealth.

The Virginia Museum of Natural History, the state museum of natural history for Virginia, is an agency of the Secretary of Natural Resources for the Commonwealth of Virginia.  A 25-member, gubernatorial appointed Board of Trustees acts as the Museum's governing body. It operates in association with the Virginia Museum of Natural History Foundation, a not-profit 501(c)3 organization that receives and administers funds for scientific, educational, and charitable purposes. The Foundation Board of Directors currently consists of 15 members from various locations across the Commonwealth. VMNH is a member of the Southeastern Museums Conference and the Association of Science-Technology Centers, and is accredited by the American Association of Museums, a distinction earned by fewer than 10% of U.S. museums.