May Natural History Museum
The snapshot
Whether you find them creepy or cool, there’s no doubt that everyone finds bugs fascinating — which is why the May Natural History Museum in Colorado Springs has been a favorite of families, insect enthusiasts and curiosity seekers for decades.
The full experience
Insects fill our world, and while some are definitely a nuisance (mosquitoes), most are critical to the ecosystem. Yes, even spiders. If you are fascinated by these important — and sometimes fearsome —critters, Colorado Springs has the privilege of being home to the May Natural History Museum. It boasts the largest private insect collection on the planet and it’s just outside the city.
Affectionately known as the “bug museum”, you’ll be enchanted from the moment you drive past Herkimer. Herkimer is famous, a gigantic black Hercules beetle statue that greets all insect-seekers from the highway in majestic fashion. As you wander case after case of carefully preserved specimens from all over the world, you’ll be treated to a new view of the spaces around you and the tiny creatures that fill them. The museum atmosphere is charming, with antique cases, historic newspaper articles and vintage light fixtures that make you feel like you’ve drifted back in time to an old-fashioned road show.
Your Trip to the “Bug Museum”
Over 8,000 insects, arachnids, beautiful butterflies and beetles await you. Even the biggest entomophobes (people with a fear of insects) will soon be drifting excitedly from case to case to see just what rests beyond the glass. Walking sticks the size of your hand, gigantic, colorful moths, beetles with a majestic, metallic sheen on their carapace and so much more await you in neatly labeled, rustic cases. The range of size and color in the butterfly collection alone is enough to make the trip completely worthwhile.
May Natural History Museum Founder James May
Museum founder, the late James May, traveled the world for 80 years to collect each specimen, sending the creatures he found from locations like Africa and South America. He collected more than 100,000 specimens in his travels, which is no small feat! Before settling in its final location south of Colorado Springs, the May Natural History Museum, which operates as a family business, took its bugs on the road. The family’s traveling collection was enormously popular with anyone who encountered it. After a brief time in Florida, the family realized that Colorado’s dry climate was the only place the bug museum could sustain and protect its enormous — and some say priceless — collection.
Explore, Learn & Camp!
In addition to the fantastic museum, the May family also runs one of the most stunning campgrounds in the Pikes Peak region. As noted earlier, the land is just a bit south of Colorado Springs, which means you’ll have a comfortable, cozy home base that’s close to everything fun (including the May Museum) but also far enough to relax after a day of play in Colorado. Rates are reasonable, long-term stays are available and there are great options for RV hookups so you can enjoy the comforts of home. Speaking of comforts, the whole park has free wifi, making it easy to upload all your favorite bug photos at the end of the day. There’s also a gift shop, a fishing pond and weekend events for you to hang out with your fellow travelers.
The May Natural History Museum brings the wide world of insects home to Colorado, offering lots of fun, family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re a sightseer, a scientist or just along for the fun, you’ll never forget your trip to Colorado Springs’ own unique and totally awesome bug museum.
Hours & seasons
Average time
- Typical Visit: 1-2 hours
Difficulty/accessibility
- 10 steps into the museum or a ramp is available
- Handicap parking available
- The museum showroom and gift shop are wheelchair accessible
Phone & address
Additional information
The May Natural History Museum has the world’s largest private insect collection!
They offer discounted rates for groups of 10+ any time of year, by appointment.
What we love (and you will too)
Your Local Guide, Peter Cole
Peter is always looking - looking for an answer to a question he doesn't know, looking for something new to learn or looking for the best place to try some new cuisine.
The collection at May Natural History museum is CRAZY! You won't believe the colors, the camouflage and the size of some of these insects.
Engage the Kids
Every specimen in their collection has a date when it was collected. See if the kids can find the oldest one!
Plan your adventure
Getting here
- Follow Highway 115 south
- Near the entrance to Fort Carson, you’ll see a giant Hercules beetle
- that marks the entrance to the May Natural History Museum
FAQs about May Natural History Museum
Is the May Natural History Museum open in winter or spring?
The museum will accept reservations for groups of 10 or more during the months that they are closed for the winter and early spring (October- April).
Exactly how many insects do they have?
The museum has the world’s largest private insect collection consisting of more than 8,000 bugs!
What is the difference between a "bug" and an "insect"?
A bug is simply a type of insect that has a straw shaped mouth (called a stylet) and no teeth, like dragonflies and butterflies. Insects usually have 2 pairs of wings and 3 pairs of legs, like mosquitos and flies.
How far is the drive from Colorado Springs?
It can take between 20-30 minutes to get to the May Natural History Museum, depending where you are in Colorado Springs. The drive is very pretty and en route to other area attractions.
Call Pikes Peak Region Attractions and talk to a local: 1-800-525-2250
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Price List
Adult: $13
Child (6-12): $10
Senior (60+): $12
