Science museums are such a wonderful way for the whole family to learn, explore, and discover new things! Check out our roundup of six options that are worth the drive!
6 Science Museums to Explore
Gateway to Science (Bismarck, ND)
Just a few hours west, the Gateway to Science Museum offers 12 hands-on exhibits. Discover more about the body, the weather, and the universe!
- Cost: Adult: $14, Children: $9 (free under 2), Seniors: $9
- Hours: Typical hours are 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. every day but Tuesday; check their website for updated changes.
Magic City Discovery Center (Minot, ND)
With 11 galleries, your littles will never run out of things to do as they learn about building, sound, water, and more! Check out their monthly activities for more information about fun events like STEAM Story Time and Sensory Nights.
- Cost: Ages 1-64: $13, Seniors: $12, Military: $10
- Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Thursday to Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Science Museum of Minnesota (St. Paul, MN)
This science museum has it all! Your general admission ticket includes hands-on exhibits and activities, Science Live performances and demonstrations, Omnitheater movies, live digital telescope shows, and more!
- Cost: Adults: $34.95, Children: $24.95 (4 and under are free)
- Hours: Sunday to Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Minnesota Children’s Museum (St. Paul, MN)
Not only does this three-story museum have a mud zone and rooftop sensory garden, but there’s a 40-foot climber with a catwalk and giant spiral slide! And don’t worry, there’s a place to sit and relax while your kids burn off some energy.
- Cost: Everyone: $16 online, $17 at the door, $19 on weekends and special dates (free under 1).
- Hours: Monday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Friday 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Children’s Museum of South Dakota (Brookings, SD)
Make sure to check out this museum on a nice day to take full advantage of their six outdoor areas to explore! They also have a MiniExplorers area for babies and toddlers and a full restaurant that serves fresh local food.
- Cost: Everyone: $11.95 (free under 1)
- Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Manitoba Museum Science Gallery (Winnipeg)
If you’ve got your passports ready, the Manitoba Museum has a ton to offer! Your kids can become scientists as they learn to explore more about themselves and the world around them. This museum also has a planetarium, galleries, programs, and attractions to make it worth the drive.
- Cost: Adults: $10.50, Children: $7 (free under 3), Seniors: $8.50
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
*Each museum offers different discounts for those with an EBT and SNAP card. Check websites for reduced rates.
Looking for more adventure not too far from home? Read our post on Best Road Trips to See Dinosaurs Near Fargo!
