Welcome to the
Wagner Free Institute of Science
The Wagner Free Institute of Science is a natural history museum and educational institution. Founded by William Wagner in 1855, it is dedicated to free education in science.
Now a National Historic Landmark, the Wagner offers contemporary science programs and a rare experience of a Victorian natural history museum.
Visit the Wagner
The Wagner’s landmark museum is free to visit, open all year round, Tuesday - Friday 9:30 - 4:30pm and on the 1st Saturday of the month from February-June & September-December. Our upstairs exhibit hall houses over 100,000 natural specimens, including ancient fossils, glowing minerals and animals from around the globe! Wander at your own pace or follow the path of one of our themed scavenger hunts. Feel free to pick up pencils and paper and spend some time sketching from the collection.
Accessibility note: The Wagner’s building is a National Historic Landmark. The museum is located on the second floor and requires climbing a flight of stairs to view. Contact us for more information about accessibility.
Extreme Weather Warning
Our historic building does not have air conditioning. The temperature in the museum is often comparable or higher than the temperature outside. Please keep this in mind when planning your visit and drink lots of water before and after your visit!
Join Our Team!
Children’s Educator
The Wagner Free Institute of Science seeks a skilled educator with a firm understanding of science for our part-time Children’s Educator position! This position works as part of the Education Department to develop and implement school-based outreach programs serving neighborhood K-8 students.
Upcoming Events
Summer Fridays in the Field!
Every Friday, 1:00pm - 3:30pm, 6/20/25 - 8/8/25
Explore your local ecosystem this summer at the Wagner's Fridays in the Field! Beginning June 20th, the Wagner Teaching Garden will be open for independent educational exploration every Friday from 1 - 3:30pm. The Wagner will be closed Friday, July 4th and Fridays in the Field will resume Friday, July 11th.
Stay up to date on our latest programs, events, and courses.
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