Try all the things at the Science Museum of Minnesota in friendly downtown St. Paul. A world of wonders is within reach at this Twin Cities attraction. A hot stop for school field trips, family visits, and a marvelous gift of experience from a loved one. You’ll understandably want to explore every square inch and may only have a day to achieve that goal. This full-day to play itinerary will help you get the most out of your visit.
Dinosaurs at the Science Museum of Minnesota
Dinosaur fanatics will get their fill of everything pre-historic. By all means, touch the dinosaurs. Endless fossils and a dinosaur jaw are irresistible, hands on details of the science museum’s collection of dino-fun. T-Rex Jr. roams about adding an element of exciting fear. A full dinosaur skeleton lurks near the museum entrance as a pterodactyl spectacularly soars overhead. No matter your favorite extinct creature, you’re likely to discover some you’ve never heard of before. Come for the dinosaurs, stay for the movie.
Omnitheater
A great place to continue your best day at Science Museum of Minnesota is the Omnitheater. Some may want to save the experience for the grand finale. Whatever you decide, certainly find a way to fit it in. The giant dome screen is 90 feet of other-worldly IMAX experience viewed from a cozy, ever-so-slightly reclined seat. Encounter beings of this world, and venture outside our world. Check the museum’s website for daily showtimes. Superpower Dogs, the Imax film demonstrates the exceptional jobs canines are capable of. Apollo First Steps Imax experience offers an exhilarating look at the magnificent achievement of man’s first steps onto the moon. Visiting exhibits may also feature an Omnitheater event.
Apollo 11: First Steps Edition
With the short attention spans of the shortest visitors in mind, this fabulous visiting exhibit commemorates the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing and condenses the action just enough to retain the awe of the youngest space chasers. Sit inside the replica lunar rover for the ultimate Instagram worthy shot and gain a new appreciation for one of America’s most marvelous feats. The Space Race of the 1960s between the United States and Russia is brilliantly documented and displayed.
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Science Superheroes at the Science Museum of Minnesota
image courtesy of the Science Museum of Minnesota
Those dreaming of being a scientist when they grow up can witness those who grew up to become scientists in one of the science museum’s newest exhibits. Science Superheroes showcases the remarkable works of some of the finest scientists in the field. Seize the opportunity for this glimpse into the inner workings of critical scientific experiments, be a part of the research and the latest discoveries. Located on Level 4 (of 6 total levels), Science Superheroes is open until September 2020.
Break for food and a fun musical surprise!
A musical stairway leads you between the 5th and 6th levels and is certain to be a highlight of your time at Science Museum of Minnesota. Conveniently after dancing up an appetite on the musical stairway, your hungry scientists will discover food on Level 6. Elements Cafe is serving up burgers, fries, soups, pizza, and other entrees and offers outdoor seating overlooking the mighty Mississippi River. The 5th floor Java Lab fulfills the need for caffeine, baked goods, or a panini sandwich. For those so hungry they could eat a dinosaur, journey to Chomp on Level 3 just outside the Dinosaurs and Fossils Gallery to nosh on pizza, salads, and ice cream.
Mighty Mississippi
Although the roaring, rumbling, real thing is right outside the museum for your viewing pleasure, dive even further into the mystery and history of America’s longest river, the mighty Mississippi. A simulated trip down the river is a checklist must for museum visitors. The narrated tour (no life jacket necessary) offers fascinating facts punctuated by the sound of oars dipping into the river. Later, take the helm as the captain of a real river towboat. Afterward, kids can examine its majesty even further with a simulated eagle-eye view down the river.
Sports Science
image courtesy of the Science Museum of Minnesota
The science and math of movement come together on the field, court, and track to tempt you to reinjure that old rotator cuff or pull that hamstring all over again. Attempt to out-throw, out-kick, and out-sport the pros all in the name of science. It’s you vs. a T-Rex in a race you’re certain to lose. The Sports Science Motion Lab breaks down your movements while you perform a cartwheel, or throw a football. Your movements are compared to a professional athlete, again, in the name of science. Education always comes out on top though as this newer exhibit showcases nutrition and concussion awareness too.
Your Very Own Exhibit at the Science Museum of Minnesota
image courtesy of the Science Museum of Minnesota
Collectors Corner is a place where budding archeologists can showcase their own collections. Bring in an excavated rock, an interesting fossil discovered on a hike, a feather, an artifact or even a bug! The Collectors Corner staff want to know all that you know about it, then display the treasure for others to enjoy. Visitors who share their collectible can earn points to trade for other items in the display, maybe going home with an even better find. Those who can’t bear to part with a beloved item can still earn points by simply sharing knowledge about the item.
While colossal dinosaurs, interactive hands-on displays, and vivid illustrations of exploration draw all ages of science lovers, those mature enough to appreciate it will be thankful for the ample parking, reasonable prices, and a friendly, engaging staff. A solid line up of permanent museum fixtures compliments a variety of interesting ever-changing visiting exhibits. You’ll beg to chaperone any tour of Science Museum of Minnesota.
