Museum of Comparative Zoology, Boston

Name: Museum of Comparative Zoology
Address: 26 Oxford St, Boston, 02138-2902, United States
Telephone: +1 617-495-2460

#48 among attractions in Boston

Museum, Natural history museum, Science museum

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Facts and practical information

Nestled within the prestigious grounds of Harvard University in Boston, the Museum of Comparative Zoology stands as a testament to the natural world's vast diversity. Founded in 1859 by the eminent biologist Louis Agassiz, this museum is dedicated to the research and preservation of the planet's many life forms. It is not just an academic hub but also a fascinating destination for visitors keen on exploring the wonders of zoology.

The Museum of Comparative Zoology houses an impressive collection of specimens, ranging from the fossilized remains of prehistoric creatures to the exquisitely preserved examples of modern-day fauna. Its extensive archives boast over 21 million specimens, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive repositories of its kind in the world. This includes a myriad of insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals, as well as a significant collection of comparative anatomy and paleontology exhibits.

One of the museum's highlights is the Glass Flowers exhibit, a unique collection of over 4,000 models representing more than 830 plant species. These intricately detailed, life-like botanical models were created by glass artisans Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka over a span of five decades, starting in 1886. The craftsmanship is so precise that the models are used for teaching botany to this day.

The museum is not just a static display of nature's past and present. It is an active center for scientific research, contributing to the understanding of biodiversity and evolutionary biology. The institution's commitment to education is evident in its numerous programs and exhibitions designed to engage the public and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Open to the public, the Museum of Comparative Zoology invites visitors to step into a world where science meets wonder. Guided tours and educational programs are available, offering insights into the museum's groundbreaking research and its historical significance. Whether you're a budding biologist, a seasoned scholar, or simply a curious traveler, the museum provides an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the realm of comparative zoology.

Alternative names: Coordinates: 42°22'43"N, 71°6'56"W

Address

26 Oxford StCambridge (Aggasiz - Harvard University)Boston 02138-2902 United States

Contact

+1 617-495-2460

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Day trips

Museum of Comparative Zoology – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Club Passim, Lizard Lounge, Memorial Hall, Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology.

0.4 miSW
Dancing, Nightlife
Club Passim, Boston
10 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Harvard Square, Club Passim stands as a cultural beacon in Cambridge, Massachusetts, renowned for its intimate live music experiences. This legendary venue has been a staple in the Boston music scene for decades, offering audiences the chance...
~1630 ftNW
Dancing, Nightlife
Lizard Lounge, Boston
8 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, part of the greater Boston area, Lizard Lounge is an intimate and eclectic venue that has become a staple in the local music and nightlife scene. This subterranean spot, located beneath the Cambridge Common restaurant, is known for...
~1050 ftS
Gothic Revival architecture, Memorial, Theater
Memorial Hall, Boston
6 min walk • Memorial Hall, immediately north of Harvard Yard in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is an imposing High Victorian Gothic building honoring Harvard men's sacrifices in defense of the Union during the American Civil War‍—‌"a symbol of Boston's commitment to the Unionist cause and the...
~240 ftSE
Anthropological collections at Harvard
Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, Boston
2 min walk • The Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology is a museum affiliated with Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1866, the Peabody Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums focusing on anthropological material, with particular focus on the ethnography and archaeology of the Americas.
~110 ftS
Museum, Natural history museum, Science museum
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11 min walk • The Harvard Library is the umbrella organization for the Harvard University libraries and their shared services, such as access, preservation, digital infrastructure, digital imaging, and discovery services. The Harvard Library is nearly 400 years old, making it the oldest library system in the United States.
~510 ftSE
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Holden Chapel, Boston
7 min walk • Holden Chapel is a small building in Harvard Yard on the campus of Harvard University. Completed in 1744, it is the third oldest building at Harvard and one of the oldest college buildings in America.
~150 ftS
Museum
University Museum, Boston
1 min walk • The University Museum is a historic building that houses several museums belonging to Harvard University. The building is located at 24-28 Oxford Street and 11-25 Divinity Avenue in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
~810 ftS
Museum, History museum, Science museum
Putnam Gallery, Boston
4 min walk • Harvard University's Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments, established 1948, is "one of the three largest university collections of its kind in the world". Waywiser, the online catalog of the collection, lists over 60% of the collection's 20,000 objects as of 2014. The collection was originally curated by Mr.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is Museum of Comparative Zoology open?

Museum of Comparative Zoology is open:

Monday 9 am - 5 pm
Tuesday 9 am - 5 pm
Wednesday 9 am - 5 pm
Thursday 9 am - 5 pm
Friday 9 am - 5 pm
Saturday closed
Sunday closed

Which popular attractions are close to Museum of Comparative Zoology?

Nearby attractions include Harvard Museum of Natural History, Boston (1 min walk), University Museum, Boston (1 min walk), Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, Boston (2 min walk), Harvard University Herbaria, Boston (2 min walk).

How to get to Museum of Comparative Zoology by public transport?

The nearest stations to Museum of Comparative Zoology:

Metro

Harvard • Lines: Red (9 min walk)
Porter • Lines: Red (19 min walk)

Bus

Massachusetts Ave @ Holyoke St • Lines: 1, 69 (11 min walk)
Harvard Square (11 min walk)

Train

Porter (18 min walk)