Shanghai Natural History Museum

Address No. 510 Beijing West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai
Hours 09:00–17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
Phone +86 21 6262 0116
Announcement: Science & Nature
Entrance ¥30
Hours 09:00–17:00 (Close...
Best Season Tuesday or Wednesday mornings.
Time needed 3-4 hours
Last visit: May 29, 2026
Author: Qiang Huang
Reviewer: Zhihao Wang
Fun Things to Do in Shanghai with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide

Fun Things to Do in Shanghai with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide

What can families do in Shanghai with children? Discover the best kid-friendly attractions, from magical theme parks and interactive museums to expansive green spaces and unique cultural experiences. Get practical tips on tickets, transportation, and planning your perfect family day out in this vibrant metropolis.

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Shanghai Natural History Museum Overview

A stunning modern museum located in Jing'an Sculpture Park, featuring thousands of specimens, animated dinosaur models, and evolutionary exhibits.

Shanghai Natural History Museum Opening Hours & Tickets

  • 09:00–17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
  • Best season: Tuesday or Wednesday mornings.
  • Ticket note: Must purchase/book tickets in advance via their official WeChat mini-program, of...

Essential Shanghai Natural History Museum Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 21 6262 0116
  • Restrooms
  • Cafeteria
  • Gift shop
  • Nursing rooms

How to Get to Shanghai Natural History Museum

Metro Line 13 (Shanghai Natural History Museum Station).

Shanghai Natural History Museum Travel Safety & Advice

Dial 120 for medical emergencies; first aid station inside.

Practical Info

  • No. 510 Beijing West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai
  • 09:00–17:00 (Closed on Mondays)
  • +86 21 6262 0116
Qiang Huang
Qiang Huang
Certified Senior Tour Guide
Qiang Huang, a Shanghai-based Certified Senior Tour Guide, specializes in East China itineraries covering the Shanghai skyscraper and luxury shopping tour, culinary innovation tour, and West Bund art walk.

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

★★★★☆ 4.2 (5 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • Must purchase/book tickets in advance via their official WeChat mini-program, of...

Online booking may be required

Tips

The architecture itself is a highlight, inspired by a nautilus shell.

Reality Check

  • Extremely loud and crowded on weekends and school holidays due to families with children.

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Recent Reviews

4.2 ★★★★☆ (5)
nature_nerd_ May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This place is an absolute goldmine for anyone into geology and paleontology. The rock and mineral gallery is stunning, and the giant mammoth skeleton gave me chills. I loved the quiet corners where you can just sit and read the descriptions. Only downside is the gift shop—very expensive for basic keychains. Otherwise, one of my favorite museums in China.

TomK_82 May 28, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

I'd heard so much hype about this museum, but honestly it didn't live up to my expectations. The exhibits are okay, but many displays felt outdated—some labels were peeling off and a few interactive screens weren't working. For the ticket price, I expected a more polished experience. My kid was bored after the first hour.

sashas_sketc May 28, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

As an illustrator, I came here specifically for the architecture and the taxidermy collection. The spiral building itself is a work of art! The butterfly and bird specimens are gorgeous. However, signage in English was sparse in some corners, and I had trouble figuring out the flow of the exhibition. Would be better if they added more guided arrows.

mike_travels May 28, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Great exhibits overall, especially the animal dioramas and the giant dinosaur cast. But I found the crowd control a bit annoying on a Saturday afternoon—so many people pushing around the popular displays. Also, the cafe was overpriced and the sandwich was dry. Still worth it if you go early on a weekday.

Jenna_in_SH May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Honestly, this museum blew me away. The dinosaur skeletons are massive and the way they're displayed makes you feel like you're stepping into a prehistoric world. I spent almost 4 hours there and still felt like I could've stayed longer. The lighting, the layout, the sheer amount of specimens—everything is top-notch. A must-visit for anyone curious about natural history!

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