Most children are interested in science while growing up and if you nurture their interest it will blossom into a life-long passion for exploring the wonders of the natural world. A hands-on exhibit, workshop or an enthusiastic speaker will make kids even more excited to learn new scientific concepts at home and in school. Plan your family vacation to one of these amazing science museums in the U.S. Boston Children's Museum
» Massachusetts - Boston Children's Museum
Boston Children's Museum offers innovative exhibits such as introduction to new materials, games, puzzles and interaction with live animals. Several times per month, guest presenters speak about engineering, chemistry and kitchen science.
The museum has exhibits about health, performing arts, visual arts, world cultures, and special workshops for kids 6 and older. The LEED-certified museum was founded over 100 years ago and pioneered the concept of a hands-on exhibit in 1964.
During the visit, you will get many new ideas for playing with your children in a way that encourages their creativity. Read more
Day trip idea: 25 Best Things to See & Do in Cape Cod. Photo: Boston Children's Museum
» Indiana - The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Regardless of your child's interests, they will discover something exciting to do at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. From life-size dinosaurs to a 130-seat, full-dome planetarium, this awesome museum is a must-see for families.
Babies, toddlers and preschoolers can climb, play and socialize in Playscape. Older children can dig for fossils, experiment in the Biotechnology Learning Center, interact with a Chinese cultural exhibit, and participate in staff-led activities. ScienceWorks in The Dow Science Center houses frogs, a 30-foot creek, 20-foot rock climbing wall, and the planetarium.
Don't miss the Carousel where you can ride on beautifully painted animals, walk through a maze of mirrors and climb a tree house
You may also like: 25 Best Things to Do in Indianapolis. Photo: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
» San Francisco - Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences
The 75-foot dome at Morrison Planetarium in San Francisco offers some of the most immersive planetarium shows in the world. The shows incorporate current scientific data and employ high-tech equipment to tell stories about stars, planets, black holes and the Earth.
The planetarium dome is made of 100% recycled steel.
The projection is so incredible that it makes you feel like you really are surrounded by the night sky. The aquarium which houses 40,000 live animals and the rainforest exhibit are a must-see as well. Read more about the California Academy of Sciences.
More ideas: Top 10 Things to Do in San Francisco & Oakland with Kids. Photo: California Academy of Sciences
» Arizona - Children's Museum of Phoenix
Children's Museum of Phoenix offers children ages birth through 10 a variety of engaging exhibits, projects and programs. Spend your weekend playing and learning in a fun, imaginative way.
You can replicate some of the activities that you find at the museum when you return home from your trip.
More ideas: 16 Best Things to Do in Phoenix. Photo: Children's Museum of Phoenix
» Texas - The Frontiers of Flight Museum
We take flying for granted when we travel, but seeing the history of aeronautical engineering first-hand makes us appreciate how much human ingenuity went into perfecting the modern airplanes.
The Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas houses over 30 aircraft, the Apollo 7 spacecraft and tens of thousands of historical items. This one-of-a-kind museum is fun to visit with the whole family.
More vacation ideas: 23 Best Things to Do in Dallas, Texas. Photo: The Frontiers of Flight Museum
»New York - National Museum of Mathematics
Visit the National Museum of Mathematics in New York with your kids and you won't be disappointed. This museum brings mathematical concepts to life with colorful exhibits, activities and presentations.
Your kids will interact with complex shapes through 3-D models, computer graphics and fun puzzles. You may have an "aha!" moment yourself as you stroll though the cleverly designed museum spaces.
You may also like: 25 Best Weekend Getaways from New York City. Photo: National Museum of Mathematics
»The Children's Museum of New Hampshire
Housed in a Silver LEED-certified building, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire in Dover offers interactive exhibits which let children learn about natural history, dinosaurs, caves, submarines, aeronautics, world cultures, music and art.
Don't miss the interactive lab which give kids plenty of opportunity for experimentation and creation.
You may also like: 33 Best Weekend Getaways in New Hampshire. Photo: The Children's Museum of New Hampshire
» California - The Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose
The Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose was created to do exactly what its name implies: to promote innovation. Visitors learn how to solve problems through hands-on experiences, collaboration and experimenting.
Kids get to observe and participate in problem-solving activities which inspire their minds to think more creatively. This unique museum alone is why San Jose should be on your weekend getaway short list.
You may also like: 17 Best Things to Do in San Jose. Photo: The Tech Museum of Innovation
»Alaska - Thomas Planetarium at The Anchorage Museum
The Anchorage Museum is the largest museum in Alaska. It houses the new Thomas Planetarium which lets kids learn about the solar system though interactive demonstrations and films.
The 46-seat planetarium has a 24-foot dome screen, surround sound and 3-D graphics. At the Polar Lab you will find exhibits on natural resources, ecology, architecture and culture.
You may also like: Best Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska. Photo: The Anchorage Museum
»Utah - The Leonardo in Salt Lake City
Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci and his insatiable quest for knowledge, the Leonardo Museum in Salt Lake City offers fun hands-on displays, water play, origami, an amazing science room, as well as unique temporary exhibits.
Kids can participate in guided activities and learn how to assemble a rubber band-powered car from recycled materials, or make the perfect paper airplane.
You may also like: 25 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City. Photo: The Leonardo
You are reading "Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway Today" Back to Top or Weekend Getaways Vacations with Kids, Trip finder, Getaways near me & Scenic places near me
»Oregon - The Museum of Natural and Cultural History
The Museum of Natural and Cultural History in Eugene, Oregon houses an extensive collection of fossils, objects and specimens from the local region and from around the world.
"Scientific at the Core" is an interactive laboratory offering hands-on activities for budding scientists of all ages.
You may also like: 25 Best Things to Do in Eugene, Oregon. Photo: The Museum of Natural and Cultural History
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway" Back to Top or More Famous Landmarks, Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, Food near me, Cheap Activities, Fall Honeymoon, Downtown Wedding Venues for couples
»Illinois - Adler Planetarium in Chicago
Adler Planetarium in Chicago encourages visitors to learn about galaxies, stars and planets through interactive exhibits and planetarium shows. You will get to visualize the scale of the universe and learn about NASA's Apollo13 mission to the moon.
There are three theaters which offer daily shows, programs and special lectures. The Adler was the first planetarium in the United States.
You may also like: 29 Best Relaxing & Affordable Weekend Getaways from Chicago. Photo: Adler Planetarium
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway Things to Do & Cool Points of Interest" Back to Top or Best Towns and Historic Cities for Travel, Popular day trip ideas, Farmers Markets, Places to eat near me, Living & Vacation Deals
»Texas - Houston Museum of Natural Science
Burke Baker Planetarium at the Houston Museum of Natural Science presents high-tech shows featuring one of the most advanced projectors in the world. Take a virtual trip though stars, planets, comets, black holes and other celestial objects.
The show includes a 3-D flight through space, complete with a digital stereo sound system. You will get to feel the full scale of the universe, from the Big Bang to the nucleus of a living cell. There are many other things to see and to in addition to the planetarium - the museum is a dream come true for science fans.
Permanent exhibits include game fish, Egyptian artifacts, paleontology, gems & minerals, energy, chemistry, geology, wildlife and more.
You may also like: 17 Best Things To Do in Houston with Kids and 32 Best Romantic Things to Do in Houston. Photo: Houston Museum of Natural Science
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway this Weekend with Friends" Back to Top or Romantic Places to live, September Last Minute Travel, Beach Vacations, Photos and Map of Conference & Wedding Destinations near my location
»Nebraska - Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History
Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History in Nebraska offers free solar observing every third Saturday, from April through September. Children learn how to safely look at the sun through a specially equipped telescope.
Planetarium shows teach you how to spot constellations, planets and other objects.
You may also like: 25 Best Things to Do in St. Augustine. Photo: Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway Things to Do near Me Today" Back to Top or Best Restaurants near me, Images of Hotels, Discounts, Boutique Hotels, Inn & Bed and Breakfasts
»New York City - The American Museum of Natural History
From the state-of-the-art Hayden Planetarium and the in-depth Earth & Space Tour, to dinosaurs and whales, the American Museum of Natural History in New York City is one of the top science museums in the world.
The museum is best for kids over 6.
You may also like: 17 Best Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona. Photo: The American Museum of Natural History
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway & Destinations this Weekend" Back to Top or Free Beach vacations near Me, Dog Friendly & Known for Attractions this month
Romantic Getaway, Places to Visit, things to do with kids near me & beaches near me: Things to do in Ohio, Places to visit in Washington State, Things to do in Arizona, Romantic Weekend Getaways in California, Romantic weekend getaways, NC day trips, Romantic Weekend Getaways in Ohio
»Albert Einstein Planetarium in Washington, DC
Little kids will enjoy "One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure" at the Albert Einstein Planetarium in Washington, DC, featuring Big Bird and Elmo as they take an imaginary trip to the moon.
Located on the National Air and Space Museum's east terrace, Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory offers solar and lunar observing from 12 pm to 3 pm, Wednesday through Sunday, weather permitting. Observatory staff offers hands-on activities that let you learn about astronomy and telescopes.
If the weather does not cooperate, alternative activities are offered indoors.
More ideas: 17 Best Things to do in Washington, DC with Kids and 35 Best Weekend Getaways from Washington, DC. Photo: Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway" Back to Top or Romantic Getaways, Wedding Ideas, Honeymoon, Anniversary Ideas, Getting Married & Romantic Places
Vacation Ideas: Things to do in North Carolina, Romantic Weekend Getaways in Virginia, Romantic Weekend Getaways in North Carolina, Beaches near Orlando, Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Michigan, Romantic Weekend Getaways in South Carolina, Things to do in Louisiana, South Carolina islands, Things to Do in Laguna Beach
»Colorado - Denver Museum of Nature & Science
From planetarium shows and IMAX movies to interactive exhibits and play areas, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is a destination for families with kids of all ages.
The Discovery Zone has the Big Backyard, designed for babies and toddlers under two, a kid-sized shuttle flight deck, wildlife exhibits, real fossils and an interactive water play area.
You may also like: 25 Best Things to Do in Denver. Photo: Denver Museum of Nature & Science
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway" Back to Top or Places to Eat, Excursions, Bucket list, Fun & Cheap Weekend Getaways for couples, What's near me
Vacations: Romantic weekend getaways in Maine, Things to do in Chicago, VA Places to Visit, Anniversary trip ideas, Places to Visit in New York, Weekend getaways from San Diego, Most beautiful places in the world, Things to Do in Wyoming, Best East Coast beach vacations, Romantic Weekend Getaways in Illinois
»Colorado - WOW! Children's Museum
WOW! Children's Museum in Lafayette is a playground for kids ages 1 to 11. Creative exhibits invite young explorers to learn about science, art and dance in a fun setting.
For example, the Bank of WOW! Exhibit lets families practice counting, saving and spending. Kids learn to recognize money, pretend to be bank customers and bank tellers. The museum has a puppet theater, art room, dance & yoga studio, market exhibit and a sandbox.
Learn about energy conservation hands-on since the museum has solar panels which generate electricity used to power the exhibits.
You may also like: 16 Best Things to Do in Toledo, Ohio. Photo: WOW! Children's Museum
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway" Back to Top or Essential Conference Venues & Places to Get Married, Where is the Closest Great Place to Elope
More: Spring getaways for family, Train Rides USA, Caribbean family vacation, Family vacations, train rides for kids, Family Weekend getaways, Family friendly hotels, Winter family vacation, Labor Day, NYC museums, East Coast destinations, College Campuses, family vacations in Wisconsin, Southwest vacations, best science museums, Long weekend getaways From NYC, Family vacation zoos
» Pennsylvania - The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh
The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh houses phenomenal exhibits, from the Gravity Room which is tilted at a 25-degree angle to the Garage where you can take a real smart car for a test drive.
Kids can play hide-and-seek, climb and slide. Water play is usually a favorite and the museum offers a room dedicated to rain, ice, spray and flow. Children learn about buoyancy and hydraulics by participating in a variety of activities such as dam building, hand pump, fountain, water mover and a magnetic water wall.
The Garden offers seasonal programs such as planting, composting and spotting insects. Read more
You may also like: Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Photo: The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh
You are reading "Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway with Kids" Back to Top or Places near me, Threeday weekend, Solo travel, National parks, Day trip, Travel inspiration
Family vacation Spots near me: Things to Do in the Catskills NY, Things to Do in Tulsa, Weekend getaways in Northern California, Things to Do in Hampton, Bar Harbor, Things to Do in Mystic CT, Things to Do in Milwaukee, Indoor Amusement Parks, Things to Do in Fort Wayne, Things to Do in Eugene, Oregon, Things to Do in Oxnard CA, Things to Do in Marco Island
» North Carolina - The Greensboro Children's Museum
The Greensboro Children's Museum is a 37,000 square-foot space where kids get a chance to role play, test new gadgets, climb and learn. Children can shop at a child-size market, dress in costumes at the theater, climb into a fire truck, ride in a police car and a train. They can role play at the health center which has a nursery, doctor’s office and a dentist.
The Tot Spot is a safe area for children under two years old, complete with padded blocks, ride-on toys, balls and mats. The Media Room is for kids who want to be in a newscast, while the Construction Zone is ideal for young engineers and architects. The museum has a beautiful outdoor garden where children learn about growing their own food (website).
If you are planning a two-day family trip to Greensboro, head to the Greensboro Science Center which has a beautiful aquarium, museum and zoo.
You may also like: 21 Best Things to Do in Greensboro. Photo: The Greensboro Children's Museum
Fun places to visit, events, facts, tours, all inclusive & photos of fun things to do near me last minute: Great Family vacations, Attractions near my location & Free Activities
Ideas: Things to Do in Paso Robles, Things to Do in Clearwater, Tampa beaches, beaches near Houston, Gulf Coast beaches, Glowing beaches, Things to Do on Fire Island, Italy beaches, Delaware beaches, Things to Do in Bethesda, Things to Do in Claremont
»Mississippi - The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in Gulfport offers amazing indoor and outdoor exhibits such as the Super Colossal Climbing Structure which lets kids safely climb from one floor of the museum to the next.
The science room is exciting and interactive, encouraging young visitors to test how things work for themselves. There is an art studio, a play area for the smallest kids and several excellent role play exhibits. Children can dress in costumes and ride a train, pretend to be a vet, operate a crane, star in a cooking show, and run a historic hotel.
The museum has a revolving exhibit which lets you learn about the different cultures from around the world, complete with costumes and a plane to stimulate young minds.
You may also like: Things to Do in Kansas City, Missouri and Children’s Museum of the Arts New York. Photo: Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
You are reading "Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway this Weekend" Back to Top or More Unique Family Vacations, Pet-friendly, Interesting Excursions, Food near me, Road trips & Cool places to visit
Vacation ideas: Things to Do in Venice Beach, Things to Do in Rapid City, Things to Do in Irvine, Things to Do in Bellevue, Things to Do in Columbus GA, Things to Do in Saratoga Springs, Things to Do in Kennebunkport, Things to Do in Traverse City
»New York – The Strong National Museum of Play
The Strong in Rochester features 100,000 square feet of interactive space filled with educational and entertaining activities. The Aquariums houses 150 species of fish, including a 1,700-gallon tank which is one of the biggest in the Northeast.
Game Time! On the second floor offers countless games such as pinball, air hockey, puzzles, domino and rare games which you’ve probably never heard of. The Kid to Kid area consists of hands-on activities, including a Post Office, helicopter, theater stage and a ship. Discovery Garden is home to 300 species of plants, butterflies and birds.
The Field of Play exhibit features a giant kaleidoscope which you can walk through, a climbing wall, an exaggerated perspective room and a drag racer.
You may also like: 21 Best Things to Do in Hershey. Photo: The Strong
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway" Back to Top or Traveler trip finder, Air travel, Guide App channel, Live music, Art institutes
Vacation ideas: Weekend Getaways in the South, Things to Do in Big Sur, Things to Do in San Luis Obispo, Weekend getaways from Denver, Best North Carolina lighthouses, Things to Do in Pierre ND, Things to Do in Burlington, Things to Do in Cedar Rapids Iowa, Things to Do in Vero Beach
»Virginia - The Children's Museum of Richmond
The Children's Museum of Richmond has four locations in Central Virginia: Richmond, Glen Allen, Midlothian and Fredericksburg. Your children will get a chance to engage in pretend play, experiment with water, dig, ride a train and practice social skills.
The museum offers a series of interactive exhibits, including a Pirate Ship, Dig Pit, Art Studio, Garage Exhibit, Market, Bank and a Stage. There is also an Enchanted Castle, Wild Safari Train, Magic Beanstalk Climber and a Mother Goose Corner.
You may also like: 21 Best Things to Do in Richmond. Photo: The Children's Museum of Richmond
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway" Back to Top or Contemporary art, Spa Treatment, Watch live, Trip ideas, Beach vacations, Weekend getaways
Places to go, romantic vacations, cheap weekend getaways near me: Things to Do in Des Moines, Luxury vacation, Things to Do in St. Paul, Wyoming vacations, Natural Wonders, Missouri caves, Philadelphia day trips
»Los Angeles - Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles offers fantastic exhibits, shows and stargazing through public telescopes.
The observatory sits high above the city, letting you enjoy panoramic views of the skyline as well as the stars. Next read: 10 Best Botanical Gardens for Families.
More ideas: Best Under-the-Radar Family Destinations in the U.S.. Photo: Griffith Observatory
"Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway" Back to Top or Travel tips, Hiking trails, Beach vacations, Golf courses, Arts center, Travel guide, Amusement parks
More places to see: Romantic weekend getaways in Idaho, Green Bay WI Things to Do, Museum Restaurants, Things to Do in Ojai, Things to Do in Jackson Hole
Best Science Museums & Planetariums to Visit on Your Family Weekend Getaway
- Massachusetts - Boston Children's Museum , Photo: Boston Children's Museum
- Indiana - The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Photo: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
- San Francisco - Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences, Photo: California Academy of Sciences
- Arizona - Children's Museum of Phoenix , Photo: Children's Museum of Phoenix
- Texas - The Frontiers of Flight Museum, Photo: The Frontiers of Flight Museum
- New York - National Museum of Mathematics, Photo: National Museum of Mathematics
- The Children's Museum of New Hampshire, Photo: The Children's Museum of New Hampshire
- California - The Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose, Photo: The Tech Museum of Innovation
- Alaska - Thomas Planetarium at The Anchorage Museum, Photo: The Anchorage Museum
- Utah - The Leonardo in Salt Lake City, Photo: The Leonardo
- Oregon - The Museum of Natural and Cultural History, Photo: The Museum of Natural and Cultural History
- Illinois - Adler Planetarium in Chicago, Photo: Adler Planetarium
- Texas - Houston Museum of Natural Science, Photo: Houston Museum of Natural Science
- Nebraska - Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History, Photo: Hastings Museum of Natural and Cultural History
- New York City - The American Museum of Natural History, Photo: The American Museum of Natural History
- Albert Einstein Planetarium in Washington, DC, Photo: Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory
- Colorado - Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Photo: Denver Museum of Nature & Science
- Colorado - WOW! Children's Museum, Photo: WOW! Children's Museum
- Pennsylvania - The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, Photo: The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh
- North Carolina - The Greensboro Children's Museum, Photo: The Greensboro Children's Museum
- Mississippi - The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Photo: Lynn Meadows Discovery Center
- New York – The Strong National Museum of Play, Photo: The Strong
- Virginia - The Children's Museum of Richmond, Photo: The Children's Museum of Richmond
- Los Angeles - Griffith Observatory, Photo: Griffith Observatory
- Cover Photo: Boston Children's Museum
