Costa Rica, it is an excellent experience, ASSUMING you have some interest in the history and evolution of its peoples (beginning with the native peoples who settled this land thousands of years before Columbus/Colón first sighted it around 1500) and the evolving culture and economy of this small country. There is far more material here than can be absorbed in a 3-4 hour visit. If I were to go again, I’d ask if they would permit a lunch break, and return later the same day.

While in Costa Rice, my husband and I stopped at this museum. This museum goes through the history of Costa Rica up until the present. This museum also has a small butterfly garden.We were not very knowledgeable about Costa Rica's history prior to visiting this museum, but left here, feeling like we learned a lot. My husband liked the fact that the descriptions were bright and easy to read. This museum is also neat as it was used as barracks during the Costa Rica Civil War in 1948. If you're ever in San Jose, I'd highly recommend visiting here.

My husband and I had one day in San Jose before our tour started and we are so glad we picked this museum from all the others in the area. We knew very little of Costa Rica history and learned so much. The exhibits were so interesting and there were many helpful details and videos to explain the exhibits. The outdoor courtyard was very pleasant. The butterfly garden was so beautiful and peaceful.

We really enjoyed the museum and felt like we were able to see everything in about 2 hours (and we tend to read most of the descriptions). We particularly enjoyed the history of Costa Rica portion, which was exhaustive and educational. The temporary exhibit of documentary photographs of a unique celebration was also eye opening.

I definitely recommend visiting this place. Aside from learning about the history of Costa Rica, you also get to walk through a garden of butterflies. At the time of my visit, there was also an "art" exhibition room of canvases and stones. Entry for an adult was CRC 5,750 or $11 where you'll spend roughly 2 hours (I made sure to check out every room and read all descriptions).

We spent a very enjoyable 3 hours wandering around the museum & butterfly garden learning about the history & development of Costa Rica. The building itself is historically interesting & there is plenty of seating in the shady courtyard area. Well worth the visit.

Had a free day in San Jose before my tour started so I went downtown to walk around and see a couple of museums. Started here which is a very nice museum, it was a fort for the Army before Costa Rica eliminated their military. It is a little expensive, around $20 if you are not a Costa Rican, but you can easily spend a few hours here. They have a butterfly garden when you walk in. The tower tells the story of the birth of the Republic. They have a series of rooms that depicts pre Spanish occupation up to independence and then a section which details what has happened since.