North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Hours
Monday–Saturday: 9 am–5 pm
Sunday: noon–5 pm
First Fridays — On the first Friday of every month (except as noted) the Museum stays open until 9 pm.
Note: The Discovery Room, Naturalist Center and Living Conservatory are closed on Mondays.
Dates Closed 2009
Thursday, January 1 - New Year's Day
Monday, February 23 - Staff Retreat
Thursday, November 26 - Thanksgiving
Thursday, December 24 - Christmas Eve
Friday, December 25 - Christmas Day
Admissions
General Admission is free, although donations are cheerfully accepted. There is a cover charge for Special Exhibits. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Prairie Ridge Ecostation
Hours
Monday–Friday: 9 am–4:30 pm
Saturday–Sunday: noon–4:30 pm
The main gate is locked at 5 pm daily.
Dates Closed 2009
Thursday, January 1 – New Year's Day
Monday, January 19 – Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday
Friday, April 10 – Good Friday
Monday, May 25 – Memorial Day
Friday, July 3 – Independence Day
Monday, September 7 – Labor Day
Wednesday, November 11 – Veteran’s Day
Thursday-Friday, November 26-27 – Thanksgiving
Thursday–Friday, December 24–26 – Christmas
Admissions
Free
Please note that public restrooms are not yet available at the facility.
Rules and Regulations
Prairie Ridge was established to protect wildlife, provide outdoor learning opportunities and promote respect for natural resources.
Do:
- Carry out all trash and litter
- Enjoy the natural sounds
- Park in designated areas only
- Leave your bike in the racks provided
- Leave plants, animals, and minerals as you find them
Don’t:
- Bring dogs or other pets
- Play amplified music
- Use campfires, firearms or fireworks
- Bring or consume alcoholic beverages on premises
- Smoke on property
