About
Just a short drive from Huntsville is the Cook Museum of Natural Science, offering hands-on experiences and exhibits for all ages.
Our story begins in 1968, when John Cook, Sr. started displaying his professional insect collection crafted for Cook's Pest Control employee training. His passion and knowledge-sharing sparked public interest, and he opened a modest exhibit.
By 1980, the collection had grown to include rocks, minerals, fossils, mounted wildlife, and federally protected migratory birds. A 5,000-square-foot Cook's Natural Science Museum was built to accommodate these treasures. From its opening until closing in 2016, it welcomed over 750,000 visitors.
The Cook family recognized an opportunity to create a next-generation experience, sparking a transformation project. This dream culminated in 2019 when the new Cook Museum of Natural Science opened as a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
This state-of-the-art facility aims to engage and inspire visitors about the natural world. From live animal displays to interactive galleries, every feature will create wonder, promote education, and foster an appreciation for nature.
Adding it to a museum list that includes the Huntsville Botanical Garden and Earlyworks Children's Museum will add value to your getaway.
Whether marveling at a coral reef in the 15,000-gallon aquarium or crawling through a beaver lodge replica, the Cook Museum of Natural Science will leave a lasting impression.
Cook Museum of Natural Science: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Don't let the museum's Decatur location sway you from visiting. Consider combining a US Space & Rocket Center tour on your way to the Cook Museum. No matter how or when you arrive, grab a meal at Big Bob Gibson's Bar-B-Q. It's been serving pit-style, award-winning BBQ since 1925!
The museum's cave exhibit is modeled after Alabama caverns, allowing visitors to explore its twists and turns while learning about its ecosystems. Unlike the narrow passages of real caves, this is designed for all ages and capabilities, making it wheelchair accessible and family-friendly.
Another exciting element is the aquarium mentioned above. The tank offers up-close looks at a colorful coral reef and its vibrant inhabitants. The 440-gallon jellyfish tank is close by, where visitors can observe the Moon Jelly floating. Getting close to such creatures without getting into the ocean makes this exhibit a highlight.
A favorite with kids and parents is the Discover exhibit, which is an introduction to the Cook Museum experience. What makes it so appealing are the live animals like bees, turtles, alligators, and snakes, to list a few.
The Arctic/Desert exhibit demonstrates how these two extreme environments share surprising similarities. Kids and adults alike are impressed by the clever survival tricks of Arctic foxes and desert bees. This exhibit balances science and storytelling, keeping explorers of all ages entertained and informed.
With its remarkable displays and interactive galleries, the Cook Museum of Natural Science is an ideal addition to any Huntsville vacation itinerary.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Huntsville to Cook Museum of Natural Science:
- Head west on I-565 W from downtown.
- Merge onto US-72 Alt W, continuing for 22 miles.
- After crossing the river, take the exit toward AL-20/AL-67.
- Keep right at the fork to merge onto AL-67 N/Point Mallard Pkwy SE.
- Follow AL-67 N for 1.5 miles.
- Turn left onto 4th Ave NE.
- Address: 133 4th Ave NE, Decatur, AL 35601
Local Tips
- Mine for gems at the Mining Sluice!
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Check the calendar for special events and programs.
- Bring a reusable water bottle; the museum has refill stations.
