Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals

Just off highway 26, in Hillsboro, I've driven past the Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals many times, usually on the way to the beach.  And I've thought, well, that would be a good rainy day activity, because I like rocks.  And then I forget about it until the next time I drive by.  But then one day recently, I finally remembered at the right moment, so we went.

The museum was the home of Richard and Helen Rice, who started as amateur collectors and became true enthusiasts, eventually building the home to showcase their collection.  Along with using great rocks in the construction, including the exterior in this beautiful Arizona flagstone.

The gift shop is in the former garage, and after paying for admission, we were directed across the parking lot, to start in the NW gallery, full of agates, jasper, and thundereggs.  I particularly enjoyed the "fuzzy" geodes.

The main house has lots of cool rocks from around the world, including the rainbow room (fluorescent rocks), and a huge petrified wood display on the lower level.  Have you ever seen petrified pine cones?  

Not a huge place, but definitely a good way to spend an hour, if you enjoy at rocks.