Whether you’re looking for indoor activities to escape the cold, local adventures over holiday breaks or just have a little who loves to explore, the Museum of Discovery is the place to be. Here’s just a taste of what you’ll find at the River Market icon.
1. New Heights
The much-anticipated two-story, three-tower climber at the Museum of Discovery opened in November and it’s already been a huge hit. The feature is installed in the tallest area of the museum, around the stairs, and is the first of many exciting additions coming to the museum. Although it is built for ages 5-12, there are no age restrictions for getting inside and exploring.
While climbers are certainly entertaining for guests of all ages, they’re becoming popular museum installations for their beneficial role in child development. Exploring a climbing structure develops large motor skills and instills confidence, as well as a willingness to take small risks in a safe environment. As children climb and explore, they make decisions, set goals and solve problems, often while working together with and assisting other children.
2. Touring Exhibits
In addition to the climber, the Museum of Discovery has several temporary exhibitions that are not to be missed, including an 1,800 square-foot cardboard maze, a dinosaur gallery complete with archeological dig pits and a KEVA plank building zone.
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3. Hands-on Favorites
Younger children will also love the “Room to Grow” gallery for ages 6 and younger. The space contains its own climber, building stations and more, including a veterinarian clinic, campsite and grocery store for imaginative play. This gallery also features a private room for nursing mothers.
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4. Year-round Fun
The Museum of Discovery truly has something for everyone, which is why a membership makes the perfect holiday gift. A family membership for five people is $100, while a contributing membership for seven people is $150. Both include free admission to the Museum of Discovery for one year, as well as other science centers across the country (including the Amazeum in Bentonville and Mid-America in Hot Springs), plus discounts on summer camps, birthday parties and gift store purchases. Additionally, contributing memberships provide free or reduced admission to most children’s museums across the country. Memberships can be purchased online or at the admissions desk.
To learn more about the Museum of Discovery and its upcoming events and exhibits, visit the museum website and follow along on Facebook and Instagram.