National Museum Of Natural History

National Museum of Natural History Metro Manila: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Rizal Park, Manila, the National Museum of Natural History stands as a premier cultural and educational institution in the Philippines. Housed in a beautifully restored neoclassical building originally designed by Antonio Toledo in the late 1930s, the museum elegantly fuses the country’s rich natural heritage with modern architectural innovation, most notably the iconic “Tree of Life” atrium. Since its reopening in 2018, the museum has become a must-visit for families, students, tourists, and anyone interested in Philippine biodiversity and geology.

This guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, exhibit highlights, and practical tips—ensuring a memorable and enriching experience. For up-to-date details on tours, special events, and visitor guidelines, check the official National Museum website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for an interactive museum visit (Scout Magazine, BluPrint, Traveling Up).

Green turtle Chelonia mydas sculpture at the National Museum of Natural History Manila

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History Manila with a green turtle statue

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila showing its grand architectural design at Agrifina Circle

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History Manila at Agrifina Circle with classical architecture and trees

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History at Agrifina Circle Manila

Facade of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila at Agrifina Circle

Exterior of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila at Agrifina Circle showing the Tree of Life Foyer on the ground floor

Exterior of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila at Agrifina Circle

Exterior facade of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila at Agrifina Circle

Exterior of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila showing Agrifina Circle and the Tree of Life Foyer entrance

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila at Agrifina Circle

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History Manila at Agrifina Circle showing modern architecture and lush greenery

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila at Agrifina Circle with clear sky

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History Manila at Agrifina Circle

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila with clear sky

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila showing its grand architecture

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila with modern architectural design under a clear sky

Exterior of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila with intricate architectural details under a clear sky

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila with modern architectural design under a partly cloudy sky

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila showing its modern architectural design and entrance area

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila with its grand neoclassical facade under clear sky

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila with clear architectural details under a blue sky

Exterior view of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila showcasing its architectural design near Agrifina Circle

Exterior of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila showing its grand architectural facade near Agrifina Circle

Replica and skeletons of Lolong giant crocodile at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila

Exquisite petrified wood on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila, Philippines

Exterior of the National Museum of Natural History in Manila showing the building facade with elaborated architectural details

Exterior of the National Museum of Natural History Manila with exhibits of Hawksbill Turtle, Giant Clam, and Green Turtle

Exterior National Museum of Natural History Manila green turtles hawksbill turtles giant clams

Huge replica of a dolphin suspended in the Marine Life gallery

Lolong replica at the upper entrance of the National Museum of Natural History, Manila

Historical Background and Architectural Heritage
Visiting the National Museum: Hours, Tickets, and Getting There
Architectural Highlights: The Tree of Life Atrium
Galleries and Must-See Exhibits
Interactive and Educational Experiences
Visitor Information: Accessibility, Policies, and Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Further Assistance
References and Sources

Historical Background and Architectural Heritage

Origins and Adaptive Reuse

The building that now houses the National Museum of Natural History was constructed in 1940 as the Agriculture and Commerce Building. Designed by Antonio Toledo, its neoclassical facade—with grand columns and symmetrical proportions—mirrors the neighboring Finance Building (now the National Museum of Anthropology) (Scout Magazine). Severely damaged in World War II, the structure was restored and later served as the Department of Tourism headquarters, exemplifying the Philippines’ approach to heritage conservation through adaptive reuse.

Museum Transformation

In 2013, the building began its transformation into the National Museum of Natural History, part of a broader project to consolidate national museums within Rizal Park. The museum officially reopened to the public in May 2018, combining historical preservation with modern exhibition design (BluPrint).

Visiting the National Museum: Hours, Tickets, and Getting There

Opening Hours and Admission

Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (including Mondays, as of January 2025)
Last Admission: 30 minutes before closing
Admission: Free for all visitors (PhilStar, PIA)

Location and Access

Address: Agrifina Circle, Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila
Getting There: Easily accessible via jeepneys, buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and the LRT (nearest station: United Nations Avenue or Central Terminal) (Traveling Up, Out of Town Blog).
Parking: Limited; public transport recommended.

Accessibility

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and restrooms on every floor. Wheelchairs are available upon request.

Architectural Highlights: The Tree of Life Atrium

The museum’s most celebrated architectural feature is the “Tree of Life” atrium. This steel-and-glass structure, inspired by the DNA helix, soars through the building’s central courtyard and houses a panoramic glass elevator. Flooded with natural light, the atrium creates a visual metaphor for the interconnectedness of life and biodiversity (BluPrint, bluedreamer27.com).

The Tree of Life not only serves as a symbolic centerpiece but also connects all exhibition levels, making it a popular spot for photography and orientation.

Galleries and Must-See Exhibits

The museum is organized across seven levels, featuring 13 galleries dedicated to Philippine biodiversity, geology, and conservation.

Level 1: Orientation and Tree of Life Foyer

Tree of Life Foyer: Main entrance and information desk.

Level 2: Natural Inheritance Gallery

Petrified Woods Collection: Showcases ancient flora and geological history.
Wardian Case: Displays early plant transport containers (bluedreamer27.com).

Level 3: Philippine Biodiversity

Philippine Biodiversity Gallery: Highlights endemic species and conservation efforts.
Marine Diversity: Features coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass ecosystems.

Level 4: Rainforest and Mangroves

Rainforest Dioramas: Life-size exhibits with ambient soundscapes depicting native species.
Mangroves Gallery: Showcases coastal ecosystems’ ecological role.

Level 5: Iconic Specimens

Lolong the Crocodile: The world’s largest crocodile in captivity, displayed via taxidermy and skeletal mounts (bluedreamer27.com).
Philippine Eagle: Features a specimen and educational conservation materials.

Level 6: Geology and Minerals

Minerals and Energy Resources Gallery: Life-size mining dioramas and geological formations.
Geothermal Power Plant Diorama: Explains sustainable energy in the Philippines.

Level 7: Insects and Ecology

Butterflies and Insects: Highlights native arthropods and their ecological roles.
Food Chain Exhibits: Explores ecological relationships and sustainable use.

Interactive and Educational Experiences

Dioramas and Soundscapes: Galleries use immersive elements to recreate Philippine habitats.
Field Equipment Displays: Showcases scientific tools used in local research.
Educational Programs: Guided tours, workshops, and science festivals are offered year-round (Out of Town Blog, Plan and Explore).

Visitor Information: Accessibility, Policies, and Tips

Security and Entry

Present a valid ID (passport for foreigners) at security.
Bags, food, drinks, and umbrellas must be deposited at the baggage counter (Traveling Up).
No strict dress code, but comfortable attire is advised.

Photography

Non-commercial photography is allowed (no flash or tripods).
Professional shoots require advance arrangements (Traveling Up).

Amenities

Restrooms and drinking fountains on every floor.
Souvenir shop near the exit.
No food outlets inside; plan meals before or after your visit (Wanderlog).

Visitor Tips

Allocate 2–3 hours for a full tour.
Visit early for fewer crowds—weekdays are less busy.
Respect exhibit boundaries to help preservation efforts.
Inquire at the desk for guided tours or educational activities.

Nearby Attractions

Extend your cultural journey by visiting:

National Museum of Fine Arts
National Museum of Anthropology
Rizal Park’s gardens and monuments
Intramuros and Fort Santiago

All are accessible on foot or by short rides from the museum.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s visiting hours?
A: Open daily, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM).

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, entry is free for everyone (PIA).

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, inquire at the information desk or check the official website for schedules.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, except with flash or for commercial purposes.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited; public transport is recommended.

Q: Are there food outlets inside?
A: No, but many options are nearby in Rizal Park and adjacent malls.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Valid ID, comfortable attire, and minimal belongings.

Plan Your Visit and Further Assistance

For group bookings, special arrangements, or guided tour schedules, contact the National Museum at (+632) 8298-1100 or email [email protected]. Always check the official website for the latest updates, health and safety protocols, or download the visitor guidelines PDF.