Milan Natural History Museum
Milan often gets unfairly tagged as a "two days and you're done" city, a notion our family recently found delightfully misguided during a recent four-day excursion. While the city is undoubtedly renowned for its high fashion and bustling commerce, it offers a wealth of experiences that appeal to all ages and interests, particularly for families. Our journey through Milan was highlighted by several unexpected treasures, with the Natural History Museum standing out as a true gem, especially for Eli.
Instead of the often-advised brief stopover, we extended our stay in Milan to four days—and even then, we left wishing for more. Our itinerary was packed with activities that went beyond the usual tourist traps, providing us and particularly Eli, who is an aspiring paleontologist, with unique and engaging experiences. The Milan Natural History Museum was a highlight, offering us a memorable day filled with discovery and excitement.
Our six-year-old son, Eli, has had an unwavering fascination with dinosaurs since he was two. This passion has turned visiting natural history museums into a family tradition wherever we travel. Each new museum brings a sparkle to his eyes as he encounters yet another display of ancient fossils and life-sized dinosaur reconstructions. Milan’s museum was no exception, and it provided fresh marvels that captivated his young mind.
Contrary to some modern conveniences, the Milan Natural History Museum requires visitors to purchase tickets on-site as they do not offer online sales in advance. Initially, this might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it was actually a seamless process. The line, though apparent, moved quickly and efficiently, thanks to the well-organized staff.
Milan's Natural History Museum, while not as vast as the iconic American Museum of Natural History near our home (where we are proud members), offers a cozy yet comprehensive exploration into the natural world. Its smaller scale is actually a benefit—it's less overwhelming and more digestible for a young family. The museum houses a variety of exhibits that include detailed dioramas, an impressive array of fossils, and interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages.
Eli delighted with the huge wall display of fossils!
One of the standout features of the Milan Natural History Museum was its collection of fossils not displayed in larger museums like the AMNH. These unique specimens added a novel excitement to our visit, offering us something different from what we're accustomed to back home. Moreover, the museum featured several touchable displays, which were particularly thrilling for Eli. He could not only see but touch the bones of creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago, enhancing his engagement and learning.
Our visit to the museum lasted about an hour, which was the perfect way to spend a cloudy afternoon in Milan. The experience was not just about killing time but about enriching our son's ongoing education and passion for paleontology. It also provided a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of Milan's city life, allowing us to slow down and immerse ourselves in the ancient natural world.
One of many interactive fossil displays where you can get up and close to real fossils
So happy to see a crocodile display!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you're planning a trip to Milan and have a budding scientist in your family—or even if you're just a curious traveler—don't miss out on the Natural History Museum. It’s a spot that offers more than just a quick diversion; it provides a meaningful, engaging experience that complements the rich tapestry of Milan. Our family's advice? Take your time to explore, engage, and enjoy all that Milan has to offer beyond the usual. It’s a city that truly rewards those who look a little closer.