Burpee Museum of Natural History

Write a Review Rockford, Illinois All ages VerifiedMuseum

Last reviewed June 2026 by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

About Burpee Museum of Natural History

Meet Jane the juvenile T. rex and watch real paleontologists at work in Rockford's natural history museum.

Burpee Museum of Natural History packs serious science into a welcoming Rockford setting, with dinosaurs as the headline act.

What you'll see and do - See signature exhibits "Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur" and "Homer: Homer's Odyssey" - Meet museum animals during live animal encounters - Watch scientists at work on 45-minute guided paleo experiences in the lab - Look out for live music and outdoor hikes among the year-round events

Attraction Details

Facilities

  • Toilets
  • Gift Shop
  • Baby Changing
  • Food Options
  • Parking
  • Pushchair Friendly
  • Wheelchair Friendly

Events at Burpee Museum of Natural History

  • Burpee Museum Rockford’s Roaring Past Tour

    May 26, 2026 - May 28, 2026

    Reveal the splendor of the Barnes Mansion, noted as one of the top 3 most haunted locations in Rockford.

  • Burpee Museum Reimagining Prehistory Tour

    May 26, 2026 - May 28, 2026

    Explore how current science shapes our view of Ancient Life with new research and ideas.

  • Burpee Museum Critter Corner

    May 25, 2026 - June 22, 2026

    Join the museum for an engaging critter corner event.

  • Music on the Rock

    May 27, 2026 - June 17, 2026

    Enjoy live music on Wednesday nights on the banks of the Rock River.

  • Burpee Museum BSA: Insect Study Merit Badge - Virtual

    June 1, 2026

    Scouts will learn about insects and earn their Insect Study Merit Badge virtually.

  • Backpacking with Burpee Museum: Mushroom Hike

    June 6, 2026

    Discover fun fungi hiding in the forest preserves, focusing on observation not foraging.

  • NAAC Meeting CL #2

    June 9, 2026

    Attend the NAAC Meeting CL #2.

  • Burpee Museum's 2026 Dino Day Camp

    June 13, 2026

    Get ready for a ROAR-some adventure at Dino Day Camp, packed with Dino-mite fun!

  • Burpee Museum's 2026 Summer Day Camp: Animal Trainer Lab

    June 22, 2026 - June 26, 2026

    Work with real museum animals, explore their evolution, care for them, design habitats, and present your work.

  • Burpee Museum's 2026 Dino Day Camp

    July 7, 2026 - July 11, 2026

    Get ready for a ROAR-some adventure at Dino Day Camp, packed with Dino-mite fun!

  • Burpee Museum's 2026 Summer Day Camp: Prehistoric Minds

    July 20, 2026

    Explore ancient reptiles and modern iguanas, linking fossils to living species.

  • Backpacking with Burpee Museum: Summer Stroll

    August 1, 2026

    Escape the heat and enjoy stunning views, fresh air, and a real connection to nature on the trails.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Burpee Museum of Natural History.

Best time to visit

Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Onsite or nearby parking available at 737 N Main St.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Burpee Museum of Natural History

737 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103

This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 6/23/2026

Burpee Museum of Natural History Reviews

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