General Information
What is the Mid-America Science Museum?
The Mid-America Science Museum is a hands-on science center located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. It features more than 100 interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through exploration and play.
Where is the museum located?
The museum is located at 500 Mid America Blvd, Hot Springs, Arkansas, near Hot Springs National Park and the Ouachita National Forest.
What are the museum hours?
The museum is open:
- Tuesday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Mondays and major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve/Day, New Year’s Day)
How large is the museum?
The museum sits on 21 wooded acres and includes a 73,500-square-foot facility with indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Admission & Pricing
How much does it cost to visit?
General admission pricing:
- Adults: $15
- Children (12 and under): $13
- Seniors (65+): $13
- Military, teachers, first responders: $13
- Children under 2: Free
How long are tickets valid?
Tickets are valid for one visit and expire 7 days after purchase.
Can I leave and come back the same day?
Yes. Re-entry is allowed the same day with your ticket or membership card.
Are discounts available?
Yes, discounted rates are available for seniors, teachers, military personnel, and first responders with valid ID.
Exhibits & Attractions
What kinds of exhibits are available?
The museum features over 100 hands-on exhibits covering physics, biology, geology, space science, and engineering.
What are the most popular exhibits?
Tesla Theater
Home to one of the world’s most powerful conical Tesla coils, producing up to 1.5 million volts of electricity.
DinoTrek
An outdoor exhibit featuring life-sized dinosaur models and immersive prehistoric experiences.
Oaklawn Foundation Digital Dome Theater
A planetarium-style experience with a 180-degree immersive screen exploring space and science topics.
Arkansas Underfoot
A geology-focused exhibit exploring caves, fossils, and natural formations of Arkansas.
Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk
An elevated outdoor walkway that blends science exhibits with nature exploration.
Marvelous Motion Gallery
Interactive exhibits demonstrating physics concepts like motion, energy, and mechanics.
Camps, Parties & Events
Can you host birthday parties at the museum?
Yes. Birthday parties can be booked in advance and include science-themed experiences for children.
What are Camp-Ins?
Camp-Ins are overnight experiences where guests can spend the night at the museum and participate in special activities.
Are there special events throughout the year?
Yes. The museum hosts seasonal events, workshops, and themed science activities throughout the year.
Outreach & Community Programs
Does the museum offer outreach programs?
Yes. The museum provides outreach programs that bring science experiences directly to schools and communities.
Can the museum visit schools or organizations?
Yes. Outreach programs are designed to deliver hands-on STEM education outside the museum setting.
Accessibility & Visitor Experience
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. The museum is fully accessible, with ramps and elevators available throughout the facility.
Is the museum suitable for sensory-sensitive visitors?
The museum includes interactive and sometimes high-energy exhibits (such as Tesla coil demonstrations), but also provides a variety of spaces where visitors can move at their own pace. Families with sensory sensitivities may wish to plan ahead or contact the museum for accommodations.
Are there areas for young children?
Yes. The KYE-YAC Clubhouse is a dedicated early childhood area with safe, hands-on play experiences for younger visitors.
Food, Amenities & Policies
Does the museum have a restaurant?
The museum does not serve full meals but offers snacks and beverages in the Museum Store.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and use designated picnic areas on the grounds.
Is there a gift shop?
Yes. The Museum Store offers science-themed gifts, toys, and educational items.
Memberships & Support
Does the museum offer memberships?
Yes. Family memberships are available and provide benefits such as unlimited visits and special access (details vary by membership level).
How can I support the museum?
Visitors can support the museum through donations, memberships, volunteering, and sponsorship opportunities.
Is the museum a nonprofit organization?
Yes. The Mid-America Science Museum operates as a nonprofit educational institution focused on science education and public engagement.
What is the museum’s mission?
The museum’s mission is to stimulate interest in science, promote public understanding, and encourage lifelong learning through interactive exhibits and programs.
Additional Visitor Questions
How many exhibits are there?
The museum features more than 100 hands-on exhibits, both permanent and traveling.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Most visitors spend several hours exploring the exhibits, though you can easily spend a full day on-site.
Is the museum good for adults?
Yes. While family-friendly, the museum offers engaging experiences for visitors of all ages, including advanced STEM topics and immersive exhibits.
Is the museum indoors or outdoors?
The museum includes both indoor exhibits and outdoor experiences across its 21-acre campus.
Contact Information
How can I contact the museum?
Phone: (501) 767-3461
Location: 500 Mid America Blvd, Hot Springs, AR