Welcome to the Virginia Living Museum
Virginia’s Animal Attraction & Dino Destination
The Virginia Living Museum is a successful public-private partnership, since 1966, between the City of Newport News and the Virginia Living Museum, a public non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (54-6055922). Together we connect people to nature through educational experiences that promote conservation.
BUILT by the Community, BELOVED by the Community and SUSTAINED by the Community, the Museum depends on private donations to succeed. We appreciate your financial contribution to support engaging education, animal welfare and conservation experiences for you and your family. Please consider a gift to our Annual Fund or a planned gift to our Endowment for future sustainability.
What Youβll See
Animals in Action
The Virginia Living Museum is home to more than 250 species of animals found in Virginia including reptiles, mammals, birds and fish. We provide a sanctuary for orphaned,Β non-releasable or injured animals.
Plants in Action
The Virginia Living Museum has one of the largest displays of native plants in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Geology in Action
The Virginia Living Museumβs Underground Gallery is a journey back through Virginiaβs ancient past, a past that has created a rich and colorful present.
Planetarium in Action
Travel the universe in the digital state-of-the-art Abbitt Planetarium Theater. The 71-seat planetarium theater, renovated and upgraded in 2008, offers a fully digital simulation of the sky.
Conservation in Action
The Virginia Living Museum is a certified Virginia Green attraction committed to minimizing its environmental impacts by preventing pollution wherever feasible in its operations.
Happening Today
Animal Feedings
Museum Public Events
Happening Now on Social Media
π This Week at the VLM! π
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Endangered Species Awareness Day - May 18 πΊπ
Did you know the VLM is home to 5 endangered or threatened species, like the red wolf and shortnose sturgeon? Join us for a day packed with exciting activities! From keeper talks to science shows, ambassador animal meet-and-greets, scavenger hunts, and more, we're here to ignite your passion for wildlife conservation. Included with admission.
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Military Family Appreciation Weekend - May 18-19 ποΈ
We salute military families with 50% off admission (must present active military ID). But wait, there's more! Enjoy exclusive discounts like $20 off memberships and a 10% discount in the Wild Things Museum Store. It's our small way of saying thank you for your service and sacrifice.
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Naturally Speaking: "Virginia's Prehistoric Past" - May 16, 6-7:30 PM π
Explore Virginia's rich fossil record with Dr. Adam Pritchard! From ancient reefs to dinosaur-era rocks, Virginia offers a unique glimpse into Earth's extensive prehistory. Discover evidence from the Ice Ages and giant fossil mammals like the Hart-Fiscella Mastodon in the collection of the VLM. Dr. Pritchard holds a Ph.D. in Anatomical Sciences and brings a wealth of knowledge to this fascinating presentation.
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Wild Housewarming Fundraiser Continues! π‘
Our fundraiser is still going strong! When you donate to one of our board teams before May 31, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar. Join us in supporting the VLM's mission and help us create a wild and welcoming home for all our animals.
Join us for a week filled with education and discovery!
Leading up to Endangered Species Day on May 18th, we're featuring some of the endangered native species that the VLM has in its collection. First up: Shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum).
Imagine this: a fish with a vacuum-like mouth cruising through the waters, slurping up clams, mussels, and tiny fish like it's no big deal. Plus, they've been around since the Jurassic period, outlasting even the dinosaurs!
But these ancient giants of our rivers and oceans are facing a crisis. Once thriving across the Northern Hemisphere, sturgeons have been decimated by pollution, overexploitation, and habitat destruction. Back in 1967, sturgeons were granted federal protection due to their dwindling numbers caused by pollution and overexploitation.
Join us on May 18th for a day packed with fun-filled activities as we dive deep into the world of endangered species! From keeper talks to science shows, ambassador animal meet-and-greets to scavenger hunts, there's something for everyone!
Come explore how you can make a difference in the conservation of species like the Shortnose sturgeon, native to Virginia's waters.