Creation Destination
Cook’s Natural Science Museum | Creation Family Vacation Destinations
Discover more about this destination below.
Natural History
Decatur, Alabama
Cook’s Natural Science Museum
Built at the most unlikely of places—a pest control training facility, Cook's Natural Science Museum in Decatur, Alabama, USA, has grown into a significant privately owned museum. Beginning with just a few bug collections, John Cook Sr. first expanded his collection when he built a new warehouse for Cook's Pest Control.
The museum was originally intended for employees, but word of mouth spread. Rocks, minerals, mounted animals, and seashells were added. Now the Cook family runs an entire 5,000 square foot building dedicated solely to their mini-zoo and museum. Over 30,000 people visit each year.
Every aspect of the museum speaks to the glory of our Creator and God. In the words of John Cook Sr. himself, "Evolution is being taught in schools, but at Cook's Natural Science Museum, God's creation is revealed in every exhibit."
Habitats at Home
A unique aspect of Cook’s Natural Science Museum is the natural habitat exhibits. The insects or animals spotlighted in these exhibits are shown in the Tennessee Valley habitats where they normally live, whether forest, city, or lake.
Snakes Alive!
Cook’s Natural Science Museum is all about animals—and not all of them are dead! A special section devoted to creepy crawlers and snakes draws kids of all ages, as they learn about the wonderful God who created every kind of creature, just a few thousand years ago.
Video View
Throughout the day, videos are shown in the 64-seat auditorium. The museum offers a range of nature tapes and DVDs for all ages. Once you pick the video, just sit back and enjoy learning about the marvels of God’s creation.
- The free museum is open Monday-Saturday, 9-5 (except during lunch, from 12 to 1), and Sunday, 2-5. See http://www.cookspest.com/museum.html for more information.
- Other things to see and do in the Decatur area include the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge (http://www.fws.gov/wheeler/)
- The popular U.S. Space and Rocket Center (http://www.spacecamp.com/museum/) is in Huntsville, just a thirty-minute drive away.
