The National Museum of National History has finally been opened to the public last May 18, 2019. And since then, tourists both local and foreign flock to the museum most especially when the Government waived the entrance fee that was formerly a Php 150. Yes, all three museums in Rizal park can now be accessed for free.
I’ve been wanting to visit this museum ever since its opening, especially after hearing from friends how beautifully it was made. Finally, I was able to swing by tagging along with my balikbayan friend. As expected, it was crowded when we visited on a Sunday and people are coming in and out already even it was still too early.
I guess the Philippine government has really been successful in enticing the local market specially the kids to go and visit the museum.
In this blog, I’ll be giving you a guide and a series of photos to really have that view on what to expect on your first visit to the National Museum of Natural History.
The National Museum of Natural History
The National Museum of Natural History is a 6-story building located at Agrifina Circle in Rizal Park, Manila. This museum houses three different collections related to Botany, Geology, and Zoology. It houses the largest national repository of botanical/plant collection in the country, while the Geology Division of the National Museum consists of systematic studies on Petrology, Mineralogy, and Paleontology with the aim to promote the growth of the natural science. It also holds a vast collection of endangered and already extinct animal specimens from all over the archipelago.
Just a little history, the new National Museum of Natural History was the former building of the Department of Tourism (DOT) up until 2015. This museum opened last May 18, 2018.
How to go to the National Museum of Natural History?
You can either take a grab, taxi, bus, jeep or LRT when heading to the National Museum of Natural History. But coming from South or North of Manila, the easiest and most accessible way is to take the train via LRT 1. (Also read: Museums Along LRT-1)
If you are coming from SM North
- You can ride a jeep or bus going to MCU and go down at Munoz/Congressional LRT Station.
- Ride the LRT 1 at Munoz and go down at United Nations Station
- From the terminal, the museum can be reached in a few minutes.
If you are coming from Cubao
- From Cubao walk your way towards Gateway Cubao Terminal
- Alight from the train at Recto Station then walk towards the LRT 1 line – Doroteo Jose.
- Ride the train going to Baclaran, and go down at United Nations Station.
- From the terminal, the museum can be reached in a few minutes.
If you are coming from EDSA Taft
- From EDSA walk towards LRT 1 -EDSA Taft Station.
- If you are coming from MRT there is a footbridge connecting MRT Taft Station to LRT 1 EDSA Station.
- Ride the train heading to Monumento, and go down at U.N. Avenue Station.
- From the terminal, the museum can be reached in a few minutes.
National Museum of Natural History Entrance Fee and Schedules
The National Museum is permanently FREE ADMISSION. It is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last daily admission for viewers is at 4:30 pm. The only holidays on which they are closed to the public are on November 1, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Black Saturday. The Museum is also closed every Monday for cleaning and maintenance. Sundays are dedicated only to individuals and for family visitors but not for groups of 20 or more. The best time to visit is of course during weekdays. Due to having free admission the Museum attracted more visitors and is usually packed during weekends.
Are Group Tours entertained in the Museum?
Yes, Group tours are only entertained from Tuesday to Saturday and must be coursed through the National Museum’s Visitor Operations. It is requested for you to book at least one week in advance.
- Central Museum Visitor Operations Division at 0929-4573286 / 0966-3305931 / (02) 527-7889 (landline)
- For commercial filming/videography, email: cmvod.nationalmuseum@gmail.com
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 am-12 noon, 1-5 pm
Museum Visitors Guidelines
With the now Australian, friend Elvis
Just like other museums, there are particular guidelines visitors should follow. Here at the National Museum, upon entry, all items you bring are subject to security inspection. All bags larger than 33 x43 cm are subject to be surrendered at the checkrooms. There is also no dress code when visiting the National Museum, however, every visitor is encouraged to dress appropriately. (Also Read: D’Bone Collectors Museum)
Here are the following items that are NOT permitted in the galleries:
• Art materials (including ink pens) other than pencils
• Bags and camera bags larger than 33 x 43 cm.
• Backpacks, baby backpack carriers or other bulky items
• Food and drink
• Plants, flowers or other organic materials
• Tripods and video cameras
• Long umbrellas
• Wrapped packages including gifts
• Pets
The following items CANNOT be checked:
• Plants or flowers
• Food and drink
Is it okay to take pictures inside the Museum?
Yes! it is okay to take photographs inside the premises or even take photos of the permanent collection whether it be for personal, non-distributional and non-commercial use. Though doing wacky shots in front of the exhibitions or obstructing the hallways or other public spaces just to post for photos are prohibited. Taking photos of certain loans and temporary exhibitions is not permitted. As well as doing flash photography and Videography. It is also not allowed to bring tripods, monopods and selfie sticks.
What to Expect Inside the National Museum of Natural History
The museum is comprised of 6 floors with an atrium centerpiece called “Tree of Life”. The whole museum is built around the Tree of Life. Inside of it is an elevator that can take you up to the 6th floor. The whole museum was designed for you to be able to visit all the galleries in a circular manner. Currently, there are 12 galleries that you can visit.
- First Floor – Tree of Life Foyer
- 2nd Floor – Our Natural Inheritance and Temporary Exhibitions
- 3rd Floor – Mangroves, Beaches, and Intertidal Zones; The Marine Realm
- 4th Floor – Mossy, Montane and Pine Forests; Lowland Evergreen Rainforests; Ultramafic and Limestone Karst Forests; Freshwater Wetlands
- 5th Floor – Philippine Biodiversity; The Geology of the Philippines; Minerals and Energy Resources; Life Through Time
- 6th Floor – Function Halls, National Museum Conference Center and Roof Garden
Other Attractions You can visit within the Area?
- Luneta Park
- National Museum of Anthropology
- National Museum of Fine Arts
- Planetarium
- Orchidarium
- Quirino Grand Stand
- Museo Pambata
- Manila Ocean Park
- Intramuros
I will create a different blog for Old Manila itinerary very soon.
You can also visit Rizal Park Hotel and have an overlooking lunch or dinner at The Penthouse Manila
Other things you need to know about the National Museum of Natural History
- Be there as early as possible specially if you are planning to go to the other museums or other attractions within the area.
- Give at least 2-2 1/2 hours of your time when visiting this place.
- The museum is PWD friendly specially to those who are mobility impaired. However, a wheelchair user is restricted in special exhibitions due to top space limitations.
- For those bringing cars, there is a free street parking within the vicinity of the National Museum buildings. You may ask the guards manning the gate to give you instructions on where to park. If parking in the area became a bit difficult, you may opt to park at the Fine Arts Museum specially if you are also visiting it.
- There are restrooms allocated on each floor
- Best to wear comfortable clothing and footwear ready for a long walk.
