Everything you need to know about the coolest natural science museum in Decatur

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DYK that there’s a museum filled with hands-on and immersive science experiences that’s less than 30 minutes away from downtown Huntsville?

The Cook Museum of Natural Science is fun, educational and turning five years old this year! Keep reading for all the details about this amazing place and why you need to be at the fifth anniversary, June 8-9.

Cook Museum of Natural Science

From the same family that brought Cook’s Pest Control comes the Cook Museum of Natural Science.

According to its website, the Cook Museum got its start in 1968 when John Cook, Sr. opened his professional insect collection to the public.

When Cook began to collect rocks, minerals, fossils, you name it—he eventually opened a 5,000-square-foot building to house Cook’s Natural Science Museum in 1980.

From 1980 to its closing in 2016, the museum welcomed over 750,000 visitors.

Wanting to serve as the same engaging and educational experience for the next generation, the Cook family reopened the museum in 2019.

What exhibits can I expect?

With two full stories of adventures, the Cook Museum covers all your curiosities in a fun and imaginative way. A few exhibits include:

• Arctic + desert
• Birds
• Caves
• Forests
• Oceans, rivers + streams
• The Mining Sluice
• Wonderful World of Insects

The Cook Museum is turning 5!

This impressive natural science museum is celebrating its fifth anniversary in June, and you don’t want to miss it.

I spoke with the Cook Museum team and got the scoop on what to expect at the celebration. Here’s a sneak peek:

• Giveaways
• Hands-on activities
• Inflatables (weather dependent)
• Live animals
• and more!

Joy Harris, the Cook Museum’s Marketing Manager, told me they’re partnering with many local organizations to join the party.

“We are incredibly excited to celebrate this milestone as we continue to find new ways to engage, excite and educate Cook Museum visitors.

We’re especially looking forward to offering extra hands-on experiences during our Fifth Anniversary Celebration, with the help of our local partners.”

Joy Harris, Marketing Manager, Cook Museum of Natural Science

Come out on July 8-9 to meet local businesses like:

• Anniston Museums & Gardens
• ForestryWorks
• Green Pea Press
• Huntsville Botanical Gardens

See this natural science museum for yourself

• Location: 133 Fourth Ave NE, Decatur, AL, 35601
• Fifth Anniversary hours: Saturday, June 8, 10AM-2PM | Sunday, June 9, Noon-5PM
• Cost:
  • Adults (15+): $20
  • Military + seniors: $17
  • Children (3+): $15 | Ages 2 and under: Free
  • Members: Free

Explore, learn + interact with nature—plan your visit to the Cook Museum of Natural Science today!

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