This summer, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks’ Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (MMNS) is bursting with exciting events, unforgettable exhibits, hands-on adventures, and fun designed to inspire visitors of all ages. Located inside scenic LeFleur’s Bluff State Park in Jackson, the Museum offers a full summer lineup that connects visitors with Mississippi’s incredible natural world. From slithery snake encounters and interactive workshops to Ice Age giants and fossil discoveries, the Museum invites guests to experience a season “Where Nature Comes to Life”.
Summer Events and Programs
Families can look forward to exciting annual favorites like Snake Day on June 12, where guests can meet live snakes, interact with Museum herpetologists, learn to identify venomous and non-venomous species, see snake fieldwork photos, get guidance on first aid for snake bites in both humans and pets, enjoy crafts and educational activities for all ages, and attend the “Being Snakewise In Mississippi” lecture.
Throughout the summer, the Museum will also host:
- Fun Fridays packed with themed activities and interactive experiences
- Inspiring science lectures
- Professional development opportunities through teacher workshops
- Girl Scout workshops designed to connect young explorers with nature
Meet the Giants of the Ice Age
Visitors can journey back in time in the spectacular Giants of the Ice Age exhibit, featuring towering prehistoric creatures in an immersive experience that brings the ancient past to life. From mammoths to saber-toothed predators, the exhibit offers visitors an awe-inspiring look at animals that once roamed Earth.
Strike Gold at the New Gem Mining Sluice
Adventure seekers can also experience the Museum’s brand-new LeFleur’s Mining Company Gem Sluice, a permanent outdoor attraction where visitors can pan for gemstones and fossils like real prospectors and paleontologists (additional fee).
Discover Mississippi’s Natural Wonders
Beyond the summer events, Museum visitors can enjoy:
- A stunning network of aquariums featuring native fish, reptiles, and amphibians
- Permanent exhibits exploring Mississippi habitats, fossils, wildlife, conservation, and natural history
- “The Swamp,” a lush indoor greenhouse teeming with life
- The popular outdoor Dinosaur Trail with life-sized dinosaur models
- More than 2.5 miles of scenic nature trails
Many of the Museum’s summer programs and special events are included with MMNS Foundation Membership, making membership one of the best ways for families to enjoy a full year of discovery, learning, and adventure.
Visitors are encouraged to check the Museum’s online calendar regularly for dates, admission/registration information, and additional events added throughout the season.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM: The Museum is located at 2148 Riverside Drive in Jackson, Mississippi in LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Admission is: $9 for adults, $7 for youth ages 3-18, and $8 for senior citizens ages 60 and up. Plan your adventure at: 601-576-6000 or www.mdwfp.com/museum. Connect with the Museum at: www.facebook.com/msnaturalscience and www.instagram.com/MSScienceMuseum.
The mission of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is to conserve and enhance Mississippi’s wildlife, fisheries, and parks; provide quality outdoor recreation and engage the public in natural resource conservation.
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