Get Your Nature Fix at Decatur's Cook Museum!

Nestled in Decatur, Alabama, the Cook Museum of Natural Science isn't your average museum – it's a vibrant hub of discovery that sparks curiosity in everyone! Especially for the young'uns, it's all about hands-on fun, immersive exhibits, and getting up close and personal with live animals. It's a total celebration of Alabama's awesome outdoors.

A Personal Mission

For Brian Cook, the big cheese at the museum, it's personal. "I've always loved being outside," he says. He recalls learning about nature from his granddad and now wants to share that knowledge with others. The museum wants us all to stop and appreciate the cool stuff we usually walk right past!

Nature Comes Alive

The museum's mission is to help you see the world with fresh eyes. Think saltwater fish, mesmerizing jellyfish, adorable turtles, and vibrant live coral! Kids don't just look; they interact and connect with nature in a real way. That's the Cook Museum magic!

More Than Just a Museum

"Museums can be stuffy," Cook admits. "But we're all about being vibrant, tactile, and high-tech for everyone! Plus, we have live animals!" He adds that building the museum was just the first step. Now, they're rocking STEM labs, amazing school trips, and even caring for endangered critters!

Learning is an Adventure

The Cook Museum's got learning for every age! From toddlers to teens, there's a program to spark their interest. They're diving into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) and encouraging kids to think, question, and discover through hands-on experiences.

Life is Amazing!

At its heart, the Cook Museum is about inspiring awe. "Our theme is Life is Amazing!" Cook exclaims. He hopes the museum will inspire people of all ages to be curious, look closer, and see that the world around them is incredible and worth exploring!

Unplug and Explore!

In a world of screens, the Cook Museum offers a real-world adventure. Kids can engage with animals, ecosystems, and all the amazing complexities of nature. They'll leave with a sense of wonder and a reminder that curiosity is the key to lifelong learning! It's a reminder that curiosity is the first step to lifelong learning.