About NHMU

Welcome to the Natural History Museum of Utah, where we inspire wonder in science and the natural world. Located on the University of Utah's Research Park campus in the foothills above Salt Lake City, the Museum is a vibrant center for research, education, and exploration. Through world-class exhibitions, we are committed to showcasing the rich natural and cultural history of Utah and the surrounding region to foster a deeper understanding of our planet's past, present, and future. Our public exhibitions are founded on the Museum's vast scientific collections, which are home to approximately 2 million objects that are carefully preserved for research conducted by the scientists of today and tomorrow.

Mission, Values & Strategic Plan

Lythronax fossil at NHMU.

The Past Worlds Exhibition at NHMU. Photo by Mark Johnston

NHMU's mission is to illuminate the natural world and the place of humans within it. This mission is integral to our strategic plan, which focuses on expanding our reach and impact by advancing cutting-edge research and science education, developing innovative exhibits, and engaging with communities near and far. Read more about our mission and strategic plan here. 

A Brief History

Established by Utah statute in 1962 to care for specimen and object collections assembled by faculty at the University of Utah, the Utah Museum of Natural History (the original name) opened its doors to the public in 1969 in the George Thomas Building on the University of Utah’s main campus. Since then, the Museum’s collections have grown to approximately 2 million objects, our staff has expanded significantly, our exhibition galleries have been modified and updated, and our educational offerings have multiplied, solidifying our position as the state’s museum of natural and cultural history.  In November 2011, we opened the Museum’s remarkable new home, the Rio Tinto Center, on the Research Park campus of the University of Utah.  In this award-winning architectural landmark, with stunning exhibit galleries, an extensive menu of programs onsite, offsite around the state, and online, and state-of-the-art collections facilities, the Natural History Museum of Utah (the new name) is the largest museum in the intermountain west, serving the entire state of Utah and welcoming visitors from across the country and around the world.

Our Building

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Our stunning home, the Rio Tinto Center, opened its doors in 2011 and has since become an architectural icon in Salt Lake City. Designed by the award-winning firm Ennead Architects, the building seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. The building's innovative design reflects our commitment to sustainability, with eco-friendly features such as a green roof and energy-efficient systems. Read more about the Rio Tinto Center here. 

Our Staff & Volunteers

NHMU Volunteer Jane Yager works with a group of field trip students at the Museum.

NHMU Volunteer Jane Yager works with a group of field trip students at the Museum. ©Mark Johnston/NHMU

The Museum is guided by a dedicated leadership team committed to advancing our mission and values. Our leadership team brings a wealth of expertise in science, education, and museum management, and works together with our dedicated staff and a core of volunteers to ensure that the Natural History Museum of Utah remains a leader in the field. Meet our staff here. 

See You at the Museum

We thank you for your interest in the Natural History Museum of Utah. Take the next step to dig deeper into the Museum and billions of years of Utah's natural history by planning a visit to NHMU.