CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Museum of Natural History was highlighted internationally among the Prix Versailles for the 2025 World's Most Beautiful Museums List.

Cleveland joins six other institutions being recognized across the globe for contemporary projects with multiple disciplines. The institutions are selected by a World Jury, filled with international figures who select projects ranging from airports, campuses, passenger stations, sports and museums. 

What You Need To Know

  • The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is one of seven museum being internationally recognized

  • Museums were selected by a World Jury

  • Last year, the museum unveiled its $150 million transformation in December

The seven museums recognized for excellence in new museum architecture include:

  • Cleveland Museum of Natural History | Cleveland, United States
  • Grand Palais | Paris, France
  • Saka Museum | Bali, Indonesia
  • Audeum | Seoul, Republic of Korea
  • Kunstsilo | Kristiansand, Norway
  • Diriyah Art Futures | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
  • Joslyn Art Museum | Omaha, United States

Last year, the museum unveiled its $150 million transformation in December. The museum was designed by DLR Group, the architectural partner of the institution.

“Every aspect of our transformed Museum aims to achieve one unified vision: to promote healthy humans, a healthy planet, and a better future for all,” said Sonia Winner, president and CEO of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. “We are thrilled that this commitment to architecture in the service of science has been recognized on an international stage.”

Within its new design, there are multiple sustainable features, such as a solar panel array, bird-safe glass and a stormwater-retention system. Through these features, the museum received a LEED Platinum certification, the highest distinction awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council. 

“The Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s recognition as one of the world’s most beautiful museums by Prix Versailles is a testament to the power of visionary architecture and sustainable design,” said DLR Group Principal and Global Cultural Performing Arts Leader Dan Clevenger. “This honor not only celebrates the museum’s stunning transformation, led by the design team of Mark Morris, Paul Westlake and Joshua Haney, but also reflects its commitment to advancing scientific discovery, fostering education around our natural world, and shaping a more informed and sustainable future.”

Of the seven museums recognized, three will receive further distinction of a World Title, Interior and Exterior from Prix Versailles with awards being announced this December.