The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science at 2148 Riverside Drive in Jackson is the state's foremost natural history institution, operated by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The museum occupies a modern facility adjacent to LeFleur's Bluff State Park in northeast Jackson and houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Mississippi's native flora, fauna, and geological history in the country.
The museum's centerpiece is a 175,000-gallon aquarium complex featuring native Mississippi aquatic species in naturalistic habitat displays — the largest such freshwater exhibit in the state. The aquarium tanks house paddlefish, alligator gar, sturgeon, and dozens of native fish species alongside turtles, alligators, and aquatic invertebrates. The alligator display is a consistent favorite with younger visitors.
Beyond the aquarium, the museum's galleries cover the full sweep of Mississippi natural history: exhibits on the state's diverse ecosystems — longleaf pine forest, hardwood bottomland, coastal marsh, and Mississippi River riparian habitat — are populated with mounted specimens of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects collected across the state. A geological gallery presents the deep history of the Mississippi landscape from Cretaceous marine deposits to the formation of the Delta alluvial plain.
The museum is connected to a four-mile nature trail system through LeFleur's Bluff State Park, allowing visitors to extend their visit into the outdoor landscape. The museum gift shop carries field guides, educational materials, and nature-themed items appropriate for all ages. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for children ages 3–18 — among the lowest of any Mississippi museum. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough visit.
Good to know
- Hours
- Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sunday 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Best time
- Weekday mornings; the 175,000-gallon aquarium featuring native Mississippi species is a highlight
Location
2148 Riverside Dr, Jackson, MS 39202
32.3164, -90.1916 View on map
Highlights
- 175,000-gallon native freshwater aquarium with paddlefish, alligator gar, sturgeon, and alligators
- Comprehensive galleries on Mississippi's ecosystems — longleaf pine forest, Delta bottomland, and coastal marsh
- Mounted specimen collection covering the full range of Mississippi mammals, birds, and reptiles
- Geological gallery on the deep history of the Mississippi landscape from Cretaceous sea to Delta plain
- Connected nature trail system through adjacent LeFleur's Bluff State Park for outdoor extension
Tips for visiting
- The 175,000-gallon aquarium is the main draw — arrive at feeding times (posted at the entrance) for the most active displays.
- Combine with a walk on the LeFleur's Bluff State Park nature trails adjacent to the museum for a half-day outdoors.
- Admission is among the lowest in Mississippi ($6 adults, $4 children) — no advance booking required.
- Weekday mornings are the quietest; the museum draws school groups heavily on weekday afternoons in spring.
- Free parking is available in the on-site lot off Riverside Drive.
When to visit
Weekday mornings are the least crowded and offer the best experience of the aquarium without peak school-group traffic. The museum is climate-controlled and equally welcoming in summer and winter.
Accessibility
The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with ground-level entry, elevator access to all floors, and accessible restrooms. The adjacent nature trails in LeFleur's Bluff State Park have some unpaved sections that may be challenging for mobility-aid users; the museum grounds are fully accessible.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science take?
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours in the museum. Adding a walk on the adjacent LeFleur's Bluff State Park nature trails extends a visit to a comfortable half-day.
Is the museum suitable for young children?
Yes. The aquarium tanks and the live alligator display are particularly engaging for young children. The museum is widely regarded as one of the best family attractions in Jackson.
Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography for personal use is permitted throughout the museum, including at the aquarium tanks. Flash photography near the tanks is discouraged to avoid stressing the fish.