Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum | Provo

The Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum is an academic museum located on the campus of Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is housed within a multi-story academic building constructed primarily of concrete and glass. Its exterior is functional and utilitarian, reflecting its academic purpose. Interior exhibits feature display cases, dioramas, and mounted specimens within climate-controlled environments.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated on the Brigham Young University Campus at 650 E University Pkwy, Provo, UT 84602. It is accessible via University Parkway. Parking is available in designated visitor lots on campus, with fees typically applied during weekdays. Public transport options include the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) bus routes that serve the university, such as routes 830 and 831.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was established in 1978 and named in honor of Monte L. Bean, a significant benefactor. Its purpose is to support research, education, and public outreach in the natural sciences, housing extensive collections of biological specimens.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe curated exhibits on entomology, ornithology, mammalogy, and paleontology. The museum features a large collection of preserved insects, bird and mammal skins, and fossilized remains. Educational programs and guided tours are sometimes available; check the museum's schedule for current offerings.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum. Limited seating is provided within exhibit areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the building. No food vendors are located directly within the museum; dining options are available at various locations across the BYU campus.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round during its scheduled operating hours, typically Monday through Saturday. Weekday afternoons may be less crowded than mornings. No specific tide or lighting conditions are relevant to visiting the museum's indoor exhibits.

Facts & Legends

The museum's entomology collection is one of the largest in the Intermountain West, containing over 1.5 million specimens, with a significant portion dedicated to the study of Hymenoptera (ants, bees, wasps).

Nearby Landmarks

• Brigham Young University Museum of Art (0.2km West)
• Joseph Smith Building (0.3km Southwest)
• BYU Marriott Center (0.4km West)
• Provo City Library (1.5km South)
• Timpanogos Valley (4.0km East)