John May Museum Center

Description:

• Here you'll find one of the world's best public collections of giant insects and other tropical invertebrates, not to mention a statue out front touted to be the world's largest Hercules beetle. James F. W. May (1884-1956) spent more than half a century exploring the world's jungles while compiling his illustrious collection, which has grown to more than 100,000 invertebrates, about 8,000 of which are on display at any given time. The specimens are irreplaceable, because many came from areas that are now so politically unstable that no one is willing or able to explore the backcountry to collect them again. Exhibits change periodically.

  Also on the grounds is the Museum of Space Exploration, where you can take a pictorial trip through the history of space exploration, beginning with man's first attempts to fly and continuing through the most recent photos from NASA. Also on display are numerous models of early aircraft, World War II planes, and spacecraft. Take time to view one or more of the NASA space films, which include the first moon landing. Allow 2 to 3 hours for both museums. There's also a 500-site campground ($24-$26 for campsites) with hiking trails, fishing, and a playground area.

• © Frommer's 2012