Discover how the creatures of our past and present shape the future we share. This September, the San Bernardino County Museum introduces Beasts & Bones, a new event series designed to connect visitors with the wildlife and natural history of our region through live encounters, hands-on science, and community partnerships.
Dates and Locations
- Saturday, September 20 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m. | San Bernardino County Museum, Redlands
- Saturday, September 27 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m. | Victor Valley Museum, Apple Valley
What to Expect
- Live animal encounters with raptors (Redlands), mammals, reptiles—including native rattlesnakes—and other species.
- Fossils, specimens, and demonstrations that bring paleontology to life.
- Conservation conversations with regional partners, including Leave No Trace, Big Bear Alpine Zoo, and Mojave National Preserve.
- A community atmosphere featuring local food vendors, art activities, and family-friendly programming.
The museum’s Curator of Integrated Biology, Dr. Mackenzie Kirchner, helped shape Beasts & Bones around a central goal: to introduce visitors to the animals that share our county and to encourage a deeper understanding of how we can live alongside them. By highlighting both the fascination of fossils and the presence of living species—such as raptors, reptiles, mammals, and native snakes—the event invites us to see wildlife not as something distant or threatening, but as neighbors essential to the balance of our environment.
Through live demonstrations, expert-led activities, and conservation partnerships, Beasts & Bones emphasizes the importance of coexistence. Visitors will gain practical insights into how to care for and respect the creatures in their own backyards, while also reflecting on the connections between ancient ecosystems and the landscapes we inhabit today.
General admission applies: $10 adults, $8 military/seniors, $7 students, $5 children ages 6–12. Children five and under and Museum Foundation members are free. Parking is free.
Beasts & Bones is about connection—between ancient history and living neighbors, science and community, past and future. We invite you to join us for this first-time event and be part of the story.
SBCM is located at 2024 Orange Tree Lane, at the California Street exit from Interstate 10 in Redlands. The museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. VVM is located at 11873 Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley. The museum is open on Wednesday through Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $10 (adult), $8 (military or senior), $7 (student), and $5 (children ages 6 to 12). Children five and under and Museum Foundation members are admitted free. Parking is free. The museums are accessible to people with disabilities. For more information, visit museum.sbcounty.gov or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Museum’s exhibits of regional, cultural and natural history and the Museum’s other exciting events and programs reflect the effort by the Board of Supervisors to achieve the Countywide Vision by celebrating arts, culture and education in the county, creating quality of life for residents and visitors.