
NATURE EXPLORATION CENTER
11 West Jones StreetRaleigh, NC 27601
Phone: 919.707.9800
Get Directions
- Monday–Saturday: 9am–5pm
- Sunday: noon–5pm
- The Living Conservatory (butterfly room) and Discovery Room are closed on Mondays.
Featuring an array of permanent and special exhibits, live programs and educational films that appeal to audiences of all ages, the Nature Exploration Center encourages visitors to explore the natural world and their connections to it.
NCMNS Accessibility Accommodations
General Access Guide
Special Events Access Guide

NATURE RESEARCH CENTER
121 West Jones StreetRaleigh, NC 27603
Phone: 919.707.8080
Get Directions
- Monday–Saturday: 9am–5pm
- Sunday: noon–5pm
- The Naturalist Center and iLabs close one hour before the rest of the Nature Research Center.
- The Naturalist Center is closed to the public on Mondays.
With state-of-the-art laboratories, research opportunities, interactive exhibits and live presentations given by top scientists, the Nature Research Center makes science a tangible and enjoyable experience and helps visitors understand the practical applications of science in their daily lives.
NCMNS Accessibility Accommodations
General Access Guide
Special Events Access Guide

PRAIRIE RIDGE ECOSTATION
1671 Gold Star DriveRaleigh, NC 27607
Phone: 919.707.8888
Get Directions
- Monday–Saturday: 9am–4:30pm
- Sunday, noon–4:30pm
Prairie Ridge Ecostation will be closed on Monday, October 7; Thanksgiving; Christmas Eve; Christmas Day; New Year's Day, and all state holidays.
Prairie Ridge Ecostation is the Museum's off-site field station where teachers, students and the general public can learn about sustainable living and experience the natural world. The site features 38 acres of restored prairie, lowland forest and wetlands through which several hiking trails intersect.

WHITEVILLE
415 South Madison StreetWhiteville, NC 28472
Phone: 910.914.4185
Get Directions
- Tuesday–Saturday: 9am–5pm
NC Museum of Natural Sciences at Whiteville is closed on Monday, October 7; Thanksgiving; Christmas Eve; Christmas Day; New Year's Day, and all state holidays.
The NC Museum of Natural Sciences at Whiteville features a selection of permanent and interactive exhibits, educational films, and hands-on learning areas both indoors and out that connect the Museum to southeastern North Carolina.