Natural Selection
Hours
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Natural Selection in Reno, Nevada is a specialty store dedicated to showcasing the wonders of the natural world through an extensive collection of taxidermy specimens, exotic plants, and unique oddities. Located in the vibrant MidTown district, this establishment stands out as a destination for nature enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking one-of-a-kind gifts and decor.
The store's inventory is a true treasure trove for naturalists and curiosity seekers alike. Meticulously preserved taxidermy animals from various regions around the globe share the space with a remarkable array of lush bonsai trees and captivating carnivorous plants, such as the striking sundews. Terrarium supplies, fossils, and intriguing natural history specimens like baculum (animal penis bones) adorn the shelves, inviting visitors to explore the fascinating intricacies of the natural world.
Upon entering, visitors are immediately transported into a museum-like atmosphere brimming with curiosities and educational displays. While weekends can be bustling, the store's daily operating hours (closed on Tuesdays) provide ample opportunity to browse at a leisurely pace. A wheelchair-accessible parking lot offers convenience, although street parking in the area can be limited during peak hours. Customers consistently praise the reasonable prices and the exceptional quality of the plants, which thrive under the knowledgeable care of the staff, fostering a sense of excitement and discovery akin to a child's first visit to a natural history museum.
The knowledgeable owners, Marcy and Emily, lead a friendly and welcoming team of staff members who are passionate about sharing their expertise. They create an engaging and educational experience, eagerly answering questions and providing guidance to visitors, ensuring they leave with a deeper appreciation for the captivating world of natural wonders.
Visitors rave about the unique and rare finds, such as the fossilized dinosaur eggs and the intricate insect displays, which are not easily found elsewhere. The store's commitment to sourcing ethically and sustainably is also widely commended.
In addition to its remarkable inventory, Natural Selection is conveniently situated near several local attractions, including the Nevada Museum of Art and the Wilbur D. May Center, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the region's rich cultural and natural heritage.
Whether you're a seasoned collector, a budding naturalist, or simply someone seeking a truly unique shopping experience, Natural Selection promises an unforgettable journey into the captivating realm of nature's majesty. With its exceptional inventory, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to ethical sourcing, this store offers an unparalleled opportunity to bring home a piece of the natural world's wonders.
50 reviews
Kay Strain
I've bought a variety of plants from this place and they all TRULY thrive. They give you plants in the right substrate and give concise tips on how to care for them that is easy to remember. From xerics to carnivorous plants, every plant I've purchased from here has grown vigorously AND flowered. The oldest plant I have from here is a sundew I've had for nearly a year, and in that time it has spread rhizomatously and flowered twice.
Elizabeth Litov
Natural Selection is like a fantastic natural history museum and a marvelous plant nursery mixed together but you get to take home for your very own the things you admire most. Owners Marcy and Emily are knowledgeable, engaging and inspirational. A totally unique shop and a real gem.
Its_lo
Super awesome place with really friendly people!
Jacob Lacuesta
Whenever I visit a new city I always check Atlas Obscura and was delighted to find this place in Reno -- and honestly the most interesting thing on A.O. I first walked in and was greeted by two extremely sweet dogs and was taken aback by their taxidermy selections. As a biology teacher, I am so excited about my purchases (which were REASONABLY PRICED) and I can't wait to take them back to my students! I genuinely felt like a kid in a candy store with this place. This place genuinely filled me with so much joy and excitement; it will be one of the first things on my mind whenever "Reno" is mentioned in a conversation. I can't wait to come back to Reno again and feel the pure dopamine rush that is Natural Selection once again.
Steven Brothers
Great workers, great place. This place is so cool. All kinds of animals and plants to look at. Really neat stuff you won't find other places, like an alligator foot back scratcher.
S M
I love this shop so much I stopped in twice during my short trip. The owners are so nice and the selection of plants and animals are amazing. Ask to hear all their stories!
Oliver G
This fittingly titled establishment is an easy to miss gem of the city. The eclectic taxidermy animals will bring joy to anyone who visits. Aside from an assortment of baculum, taxidermy animals, and other oddities, this shop also provides comprehensive materials for constructing one's own terrarium.
Bradley Herbruck
Such an amazing hidden gem! So many cool finds to browse. So glad we stopped in. Emily and all the staff were so friendly and helpful. Will definitely be back
Jessica DeAragon
Amazing selection even when the owner said they didn't have much, the options were fantastic to me (amateur plant enthusiast). The taxidermied items are all around too! So much to see in a small space. Heads up for anyone claustrophobic: please come on a weekday. It's much easier to soak it all in when there isn't weekend crowds. Plus, parking will be difficult that's not the shops fault it's just midtown Reno. The owner, again, so amazingly sweet and their staff is very welcoming allowing for both window shoppers and natural world lovers alike to flourish in this amazing space. (Plus, best greeting cards in town bar NONE)
ᗰK
Absolutely beautiful shop! I found this shop last year and fell in love with it. I will admit that until today I had not made a purchase, however every time I visited this gem in midtown I was always greeted and employees were always happy to answer my questions. Even if to just walk through I highly recommend this shop!