Natural History Museum of China (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Natural History Museum of China?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Children 4-12 enjoy free specimen workshops, experiments and lively 4D shows, plus wide safe aisles; lack of confirmed onsite food options means parents should pack snacks.
Positives:
- Free entry and kids’ programs: Permanent exhibits and most family workshops have no admission fee.
- English labels throughout: All main halls include English descriptions to guide English learners.
Challenges:
- Crowds on weekends: Popular workshops and hall entrances can form long lines on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Advance booking required: Some hands-on sessions and 4D films need booking in WeChat days ahead.
What is Natural History Museum of China?
- A national natural history museum in Beijing affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences
- China’s largest natural history collection, with hundreds of thousands of specimens spanning paleontology, zoology, botany and anthropology
- A contemporary glass-and-steel complex structured around a soaring central atrium and thematic exhibition halls
What is so special about Natural History Museum of China for with kids?
- Free admission with engaging permanent fossils and skeletons
- Interactive specimen sessions and hands-on science labs for ages 4–12
- Child-friendly 4D films and bilingual exhibit labels
- Spacious, stroller-friendly halls and support facilities
- Summer evenings offer special projection and live events
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to see key halls, join one workshop and catch a 4D film without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Natural History Museum of China
Permanent Halls: Dinosaurs & Fossils:
Walk through the Mamenchisaurus and Stegodon exhibits.
Tip: Head here first to avoid later crowds around the skeletons.
Specimen Close-Up (标本零距离):
Hands-on drop-in session for ages 4–7 in the Cambrian classroom.
Tip: Drop in between 10:00–11:00 or 14:00–15:00; no booking needed.
Experiment Workshops (实验乐翻天):
Build gene models, test mineral hardness and count animal digits.
Tip: Reserve slots via WeChat or at the desk a day before your visit.
Natural Classroom (自然学堂):
Guided tour with stories, specimen observation and simple classification.
Tip: Check dates under “活动推荐” and book via WeChat early.
4D Science Film:
Short immersive natural-history films with moving seats and effects.
Tip: Book free seats at the Tickets/预约服务 desk before arrival.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Natural History Museum of China
- Arrive early: Get there 15 minutes before opening to explore halls in quieter conditions.
- Book workshops first: Reserve workshop and 4D film spots as soon as you enter to secure seats.
- Use the info desk: Ask staff for elevator and ramp routes to move easily with strollers.
Reviews of Natural History Museum of China
Benjamin Helwa
As someone who really loves nature and finds science fascinating, this museum was such a peaceful and inspiring stop during my time in Beijing. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but once I walked in, I was completely drawn in. Giant dinosaur skeletons welcomed me right at the entrance, and from there it just kept getting better. The museum takes you on a journey through the history of life—fr...
Mervyn Phea
Note google map is NOT accurate in China. You can easily buy tickets at the counter. Elderly above 60 is free. 2 level museum that seems very basic. Not wow standard. Place to just explore for a short time. Toilets available.
Wei Yang Low
Well worth a visit. Queue is terrible like any other parts of Beijing, but the price to enter is pretty reasonable. Exhibitions are good.
Lauren Thornberg
Exciting in some ways, and disappointing in other ways! Admission is free, and the building is pretty easy to find. It's about a ten minute walk from 珠市口 subway station (line 7). There is very little English signage, but I used my google translate app's camera function to get a rough translation. The aquarium is amazingly pathetic and sad, don't bother going downstairs to see it unless you want to...
Michal Tasar
The museum is mainly directed at school age children in my opinion, with the displays being brief and easy to grasp, but of course the adults can still find a lot to see and enjoy here. The entry is free, which is really a great benefit. On the downside the museum was pretty crowded.
When is the best time to visit Natural History Museum of China (Beijing, China)?
In July–August join “Museum Night” for free façade projections and live shows; reserve via WeChat 2–3 weeks ahead.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Subway tickets (4 round trips) | CNY 32 |
| Museum café snacks | CNY 60 |
| Souvenirs at museum shop | CNY 100 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 192 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Natural History Museum of China
Address: China, Bei Jing Shi, Dong Cheng Qu, 天桥南大街126号 邮政编码: 100061
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Natural History Museum of China (Beijing)?
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities