Western Galleries Campaign

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is undertaking the final phase of a 20-year effort to revitalize its permanent galleries. The Western Galleries Campaign will support the Museum’s important work in iconic exhibit spaces: Earth & Marine Sciences and the hall most recently known as Chumash Life now called Gould Memorial Wing. Together, these galleries on the west side of our courtyard will tell the story of the Central Coast through its oceans, landscapes, and wildlife—and through scientific discoveries and collections that document them.

The $5.7 million project will transform exhibit halls built 70 to 100 years ago into inspiring spaces that connect visitors with the natural world, communicate current scientific understanding, and highlight the Museum's extraordinary collections and research. By repairing our infrastructure and blending historic dioramas with contemporary interpretation and storytelling, the project will ensure these galleries remain relevant and engaging for generations to come.