Are you a science junkie? No matter where in the United States you travel, chances are great that you’ll be within driving distance to a science museum. Fun for kids and adults alike, science museums can appeal to the whole family while giving you something interesting and educational to do while on your vacation. It’s a great way to spend a rainy day or to simply get out of the sun for a while in between outdoor adventures of all types. Here are a few of the best science museums in the USA:
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Liberty Science Center, Jersey City, New Jersey This summer, the Liberty Science Center is taking a special interest in the human body. Have you ever wondered about some of the not-so-nice functions that your body takes part in on a daily basis? If so, Grossology might be the exhibit that you find the most fascinating. Learn about the da Vinci surgical robot and some of the possibilities it opens up in the realm of medicine, or find out about some of the many techniques that humans use to communicate. There are exhibits on energy, architecture, different types of power and so much more. You can also catch an IMAX show, where you’ll feel like you’re in the center of the action. The Liberty Science Center is open seven days per week, 9:00 to 4:00 on weekdays and 9:00 to 5:30 on the weekends. Admission is $16.75 for adults and $12.50 for kids, with IMAX shows available for an additional fee.
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The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, Illinois Current exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry focus on extreme weather, the inner workings of various animals, the connection between the human body and it’s mind and spirit, and the art of the bicycle. Other topics include space exploration and different types of transportation. The Omnimax theater is also available at this museum, and until September, will be showing fascinating films on coral reefs and the ring of debris orbiting around the earth. Summer hours at the museum are seven days per week, from 9:00 to 5:30. Prices depend on what you would like included with your admission, and start at $27 for adults and $18 for children.
- Exploratorium, San Francisco, California The Exploratorium consists of six galleries, each with its own theme. Currently, they are: the human phenomena, with a focus on human thoughts and feelings; tinkering, where you can think with your hands; seeing and listening; living systems; landscape observation; and the outdoor gallery. There are also some exhibits outside that don’t require admission, as well as various restaurants and cafes that you can access without buying tickets to the museum. Ticket prices are $25 for adults and $19 for kids. Children under age 5 are free.
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Of course, there are other excellent science museums in other parts of the country, including the Boston Museum of Science in Massachusetts and the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio. No matter where you are going, if you are interested in science, you can probably find a museum that you haven’t been to before. Even better, some museums have reciprocal agreements with others across the country, so if you are a member of your local science museum, ask to see if you can use your membership to get into other museums for free or at a discounted rate!
