National standards spell out the importance of high-quality science experiences for all students, even the youngest learners. One of the most effective ways for young children to learn about science is through first-hand experiences with authentic objects and real specimens. While there are a number of hands-on elements that can be easily added to the classroom, natural history museums are an excellent place to gain valuable experiences with objects that are not available elsewhere. This article discusses how science centers, museums, and zoos can play a critical role in supporting a well-rounded science curriculum. It guides early childhood educators to discover how natural history museums can engage young children and presents methods on how to take advantage of the unique attributes of these institutions during a visit. (Contains 1 table.)