Museum Exhibits
Meet incredible prehistoric beasts from the Mesozoic Era, go on a fantastic journey to explore the wild cats of our world, interact with wildlife of all kinds, and explore agricultural and environmental science. Indoors and outside, The Schiele has exciting exhibits for all ages!
Featured Exhibits
Permanent Exhibits
Hall of North American Habitats
Experience the wonders of our ocean floors, the Everglades, the Sonoran Desert, and the mighty Alaskan tundra. Children and adults alike will leave with an appreciation for the majesty and diversity of life in our North American homeland.
Hall of North American Wildlife
Get toe to claw, nose to gill, finger to stinger, and eye to shank with wildlife at its finest! These dioramas give you a true perspective on the size and scope of North America’s bears, bison, moose, and elk along with other mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians.
Hall of North Carolina Natural History
Discover the diversity and beauty of North Carolina! Artistically crafted dioramas depict the terrain and wildlife of the North Carolina coastline, coastal plains, hills, Piedmont, and mountain regions.
Henry Hall of the American Indian
Explore incredible depictions of major tribal groups in the new world and colonies of North America. This unforgettable collection includes artifacts, weapons, ornaments, tools, and dwellings, reminding visitors of the beautiful culture of the North American Native.
Elizabeth Williams Robinson Hall of Dinosaurs
Currently under construction
The future Hall of Dinosaurs will feature 4,200 square feet of real fossils, interactive learning experiences, and full-bodied cast specimens. Get details about this exciting new space, slated to open in 2026.
The Farm
Explore The Farm, sponsored by Gaston County Farm Bureau! Visitors can explore a variety of local plants, live animals, interactive displays, and farm equipment that shine a spotlight on farms across the history of our region.
Nature Trail
All within a 0.7 mile trek, you’ll experience a pine forest, mixed hardwood forest, and pond and stream communities typical of the North Carolina Piedmont. Enjoy featured exhibits on The Nature Trail like Natural aMAZEment, Stone Age Heritage Site, and The Memorial Wildlife Garden.
Dogs are welcome on the Nature Trail, but NOT permitted within any of the other outdoor exhibits.
Catawba Indian Village
Open seasonally, this interpretation of 400 years of Catawba Indian culture, adaptation, and survival is a must-see for visitors interested our region’s rich heritage. Visit a prehistoric bark-covered house, council house, and log cabins.
Animal Ambassadors
The Schiele is home to over 80 live animals. Some are housed inside the museum, others live on The Farm, and many more are educational ambassadors. Animals are an important part of our mission, inspiring visitors to learn more about their lives and habitats.
James H. Lynn Planetarium
Featuring a fully digital projection system that surrounds the audience with a domed, 360-degree screen, the James H. Lynn Planetarium can do more than simply recreate the night sky. Become immersed in every show as you are surrounded with the wonders of the universe – on Earth and beyond! More than just a place for space, our Science Theater’s unique environment has featured programs in every discipline – from history to biology – and has hosted world-renowned musical acts, astronaut lectures, and even weddings.
