Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend
Open March 14 - October 4, 2026
The Unicorn of the Sea
The elusive narwhal with its magnificent spiral tooth has inspired art, legend, and cultural practices for centuries. Today, Inuit knowledge coupled with scientific research help us better understand narwhals-and the changing Arctic. The exhibition features a full-scale narwhal model and engaging interactives that will appeal to all generations.
This exhibit is included with your general admission and can be viewed on the second floor of the William Woodward Mississippi River Center.
Thank you to our sponsors
Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend was developed by the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History and organized for travel by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service.
Photo credits left to right: 1. Glenn Williams, Narwhal Tusk Research 2. Pete Ewins, WWF-Canada 3. Joseph Meehan, Narwhal Tusk Research