The Harvard Museum of Natural History was established in 1998 as the public face of three research museums: the Museum of Comparative Zoology, the Harvard University Herbaria, and the Mineralogical & Geological Museum. Presenting these incomparable collections and the research of scientists across the University, the Harvard Museum of Natural History's mission is to enhance public understanding and appreciation of the natural world and the human place in it, sparking curiosity and a spirit of discovery in people of all ages.

Each year, more than 230,000 people take advantage of all that the Harvard Museum of Natural History has to offer. Visitors include about 35,000 school children in groups; adults and children from throughout the region; and tourists from around the country and the world.

The Harvard Museum of Natural History is the most-visited attraction at Harvard for its historical collections, its temporary exhibitions, and its new permanent galleries.