The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature - Bradenton, Florida

Nelson M.

This was a nice local thing to do on a Sunday. It's not massive but simple enough for my wife and me to enjoy. It would also be a great place to bring your kids if they have any interest in science or even for just adults. There are planetarium shows throughout the day that are informational. No snoring allowed, trust me, it's very comfortable. There are also manatees that are being rehabilitated at this location. The gift shop was available but as someone who likes to collect stickers or lapel pins, I was disappointed. Afterwards we hit the local doc outside to see the harbour. We would definitely come back and maybe next time they'll have stickers and lapel pins.

MrsNikoleMD

Great place to visit. Lots to see and do especially if you have little ones. Veterans and active Military get in free during the month of November. 🇺🇸🎖️

b

Excellent customer service. Tickets are reasonable with senior, college, and child discounts. They have manatees and they have so many historic artifacts and fossils. Very, Very amazing and interesting pieces that has been found in the area and other parts of the world. They don’t allow drinks or food but they held our drink in the front nicely. Would recommend to any one of any age group.

Dan L.

Outstanding local treasure! Live manatee rehabilitation, state of the art planetarium, and an eclectic collection to keep everyone engaged. New kids area. Free parking!

Kaitlin H.

A wonderful museum! Not massive but still plenty to see loved the manatees! My favorite part was the planetarium the show passport to the universe was narrated by Tom Hanks which I thought was neat. The children's play area is a nice with a pit to use brushes and uncover fake bones and lots of interactive things.

Mark C.

A fantastic and inspiring museum. I cannot recommend highly enough. The exhibits are beautifully presented with plenty of information and I learnt a great deal about Florida’s history. The manatees are a real joy to see and their home here is really impressive. The staff are very friendly and helpful, the museum is well maintained and clean. My favorite museum I’ve visited and for sure I’ll come back.

Deborah S.

What a wonderful experience for young and old. It's Handicap friendly as well.
I haven't been here since my kids were little. I now took my grandchildren in. What a long way they have come from the 80's!!
If you haven't been in here in years, it's definitely on the get to now LIST!! You will not be disappointed. The staff are wonderful and very kind. We had such a great time. Unfortunately, there was a storm coming in, and we weren't able to see the second show my grandson and granddaughter and I wanted to see at the Planetarium. That was the only disappointing part. Other than that, it is so informative. I love the care they take of the Manatees, wonderful creatures they are. Thank you, Bishop Musem, for a wonderful afternoon.

Alan R.

If you're looking for an enriching, nostalgic, and incredibly unique experience in Bradenton, Florida, look no further than The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. As a 90's kid, stepping into this museum felt like a delightful blast from the past. The slightly retro vibe added a layer of nostalgia that made the visit even more enjoyable for my wife and me.

One of the most captivating attractions at The Bishop is the manatee rehabilitation habitat. Watching these gentle giants gliding gracefully through the water was truly mesmerizing. The museum's commitment to conservation and education is evident in the care and attention given to these amazing creatures. It's not just a display; it's an immersive learning experience that left us with a greater appreciation for manatees and the efforts to protect them.

The planetarium is another highlight of The Bishop Museum. While some of the content might feel a bit dated, it adds to the charm and provides a classic planetarium experience. The shows are well-presented, and the visuals are captivating, offering a fascinating journey through the cosmos. It's a great reminder of the wonder of space exploration and the advancements in our understanding of the universe.

The museum's exhibits are diverse and engaging, covering a wide range of topics from natural history to modern science. We spent hours exploring the various displays, each more interesting than the last. The interactive elements, although reminiscent of the 90's, are still informative and fun, making the museum a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages.

One of the pleasant surprises during our visit was the gift shop. Unlike many museum gift shops that can be quite pricey, the items at The Bishop's gift shop were very reasonably priced. We found some lovely souvenirs and educational materials that didn't break the bank. It's a great place to pick up a keepsake or a unique gift for someone special.

The staff at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature truly deserve a mention. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and enthusiasm. The staff members are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions and provide insights into the exhibits. Their passion for the museum and its mission is palpable, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

For those who are members of museums with reciprocal benefits, The Bishop offers an added perk: free entrance. This makes it an even more attractive destination, as you can enjoy all the museum has to offer without worrying about the cost of admission. It's a great incentive to support and visit other museums as well.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, The Bishop often hosts special events and temporary exhibits, ensuring there's always something new to see and do. This dynamic aspect of the museum keeps it fresh and interesting, no matter how many times you visit.

The museum's location is also a plus. Situated in the heart of Bradenton, it's easily accessible and provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the surrounding area. Whether you're a local or a visitor, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and nostalgia.

In summary, our visit to The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature was an absolute delight. The nostalgic 90's feel, the captivating manatee habitat, the charming planetarium, the diverse exhibits, the reasonably priced gift shop, and the friendly staff all contributed to a memorable experience. If you're in the Bradenton area, make sure to add this museum to your itinerary. It's a place where you can learn, reminisce, and be inspired, all while having a fantastic time.