What to Expect

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At the heart of the Mid-America Science Museum are over 100 interactive exhibits spread across our 73,500 square-foot facility and the surrounding 21 acres of wooded land. Our exhibits are carefully designed to engage visitors in discovery-based learning, encouraging them to observe, investigate, and share their findings.

• The World's Most Powerful Conical Tesla Coil: Witness the power of 1.5 million volts of electricity in a mesmerizing display that combines education and entertainment.
• Oaklawn Foundation Digital Dome Theater: Explore the cosmos with advanced digital projection technology that brings the universe to life.
• The Hall of Wonder: Engage with captivating traveling exhibits. From dinosaurs to superheroes to the history of games, each exhibit integrates scientific concepts, offering a dynamic exploration of diverse topics.

• Oaklawn Foundation DinoTrek: Travel back in time and experience life-sized, scientifically accurate dinosaur models in Arkansas' first and only permanent outdoor dinosaur exhibit.
• Marvelous Motion Gallery: Discover how simple motions combine to create elaborate patterns. Experiment with exhibits like the Sand Pendulum, Vertical Wave Machine, and Bicycle-Wheel Loopy Lasso to understand the principles of motion.
• Light Bridge: Enjoy exhibits that take advantage of natural light to explore prisms, filters, and color. This area offers stunning views of the museum's wooded surroundings.
• Arkansas Underfoot: Dig into the wonders beneath your feet. Explore caves, fossils, crystals, and more in this exhibit that reveals the rich geology and geography of Arkansas.
• KYE-YAC Clubhouse: Explore a vibrant, safe play area dedicated entirely to early childhood learning. This exhibit features a replica of the science skywalk, a fun play slide, and various hands-on activities designed to engage preschool-aged children in exploratory play.
• The Rowland Emett Collection: Experience the whimsical kinetic sculptures of Rowland Emett, including pieces like the "Featherstone-Kite Openwork Basketweave Mark Two Gentleman's Flying Machine." Known for their fantastical designs and inventive use of common objects, these sculptures have been a unique and cherished part of the museum for over 40 years.

Our mission is to stimulate interest in science, promote public understanding, and encourage lifelong learning. We achieve this through interactive exhibits and programs that provide rich learning experiences.

• Discovery-Based Learning: Our exhibits are designed to foster curiosity and critical thinking. Visitors are encouraged to recognize, analyze, synthesize, compare, draw conclusions, hypothesize, and more.
• Interactive Spaces: These environments are perfect for intergenerational education, where families can learn and explore together. Activities are open-ended and multi-leveled, allowing visitors to slow down, participate, and engage deeply with the content.

We are committed to making the Mid-America Science Museum accessible to all visitors. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:

• Accessibility Features: All galleries are accessible by ramp, and elevators are available. Family restrooms with changing tables, a nursing room, and sensory kits (including fidget toys and noise-reducing headphones) are available. See our Accessibility page for more.
• Museum Maps: Maps are frequently updated and are available on our website, but if you have any questions or need assistance, please ask a staff member.
• Staff Assistance: Look for museum staff or volunteers wearing museum-logo shirts and badges if you need help during your visit.

While we do not serve meals onsite, we do have a limited selection of snacks and beverages available at the Museum Store. You also have the freedom to bring your own lunch or snacks to enjoy in our designated picnic areas amidst our picturesque 21-acre wooded surroundings.

• Re-entry Policy: Your day pass allows for multiple entries throughout the day, giving you the flexibility to leave for lunch and return without any additional fees. Simply present your day pass or Mid-America Science Museum membership card upon re-entry at our admissions desk.
• Picnic Areas: Order your food to go or pack a lunch and take advantage of our spacious outdoor picnic areas scattered throughout the museum grounds. They are ideal spots to relax, enjoy your meal, and soak in the natural beauty surrounding the museum.

Explore our museum store, where curiosity meets discovery. Immerse yourself in a diverse array of science-themed gifts, educational keepsakes, and clothing that celebrate the wonders of science and exploration. From interactive toys for young scientists to unique mementos for adults, our store offers a captivating selection that enriches your museum experience.