With all the amazing things to do in the Tar Heel State, did you ever wonder what is the most popular among them? If you’ve never visited the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh (general admission is always free), then you may be surprised to learn the most visited attraction in the state is, in fact, a museum.

And if, by chance, you have visited this museum — which happens to be the largest of its kind in the Southeastern U.S. — then you undoubtedly agree: it's the best attraction around! Check it out...
Google Maps/North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Established in 1879 as the North Carolina State Museum, this astounding collection of North Carolina's diverse and beautiful natural habitats as well as a history of the creatures that once roamed the state is a fantastic place to spend some quality family time.
TripAdvisor/management
The dinosaur and prehistoric creatures exhibit is among the favorites in this museum. The massive museum has exhibits showcasing natural North Carolina all the way from the mountains to the sea.
TripAdvisor/Amber R
As you can imagine, since general admission is absolutely free, and this is the number one attraction in the state, it can become fairly crowded. But the layout and the flow are such that there is usually ample room for everyone to stop and enjoy the exhibits at their own pace. As you can see below, you can even get photos that aren't filled with strangers!
TripAdvisor/Aero_Danno

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On your way in, you'll want to pick up one of these to guide you through the varied exhibits. The museum has four floors of exhibits and you won't want to miss a single one.
TripAdvisor/Samuel D
You could easily spend all day here, so if you get hungry just head to the Daily Planet Cafe on the first floor or to the Acro Cafe on the fourth floor.
TripAdvisor/Yara G
Many people don't know the second largest Earth ON Earth is located here at the museum. Inside is a 3-story theater displaying nature videos.
Facebook/North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
The museum is also home to a variety of live creatures from snakes to alligators and butterflies.
TripAdvisor/Joseph C

With so much to see and do, you could plan to spend an hour or an entire day at this fun attraction in the Tar Heel State. Have you explored the museum yet? We’d love to know your favorite exhibit!

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is located at 11 W Jones St., Raleigh, NC 27601. The hours vary and are detailed at this link. General admission to the museum is always free. Special events throughout the year as well as shows at the 3-D theater within the museum are an additional fee. Parking is available for a fee in several lots and city parking decks near the museum. More information is available on the official website.

Did you know North Carolina is home to the largest zoo in the world?! Learn more from this previous article.

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