Spending some time in Boston? Looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon that is great for both children and adults? A trip to the Museum of Science should definitely be part of your Boston itinerary. The Museum of Science experience is an immersive plunge into the way things work at a biological level, an environmental level, a physical level, and many others. Check out our helpful guide for visiting Boston's Museum of Science. It's packed full of tips for visiting, ways to save on admission, other nearby attractions, and much more.
How to get Boston Museum of Science discount tickets?
We’ve got you covered – Museum of Science admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. 3. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more.
Tips for Visiting the Museum of Science
Tips for Visiting the Museum of Science
- Because there is so much to see, start with the larger, more interactive exhibitions.
- Consult the attraction map before your visit to decide what you want to see.
- Keep in mind the schedules of any shows you want to see, as well as exhibits like the Butterfly Garden.
- The planetarium shows are particularly popular, so plan on seeing one of those! Please note: these exhibits and shows are not included with the Go Boston pass.
- Consider eating at the Riverview Cafe within the attraction. Other nearby dining options are found in or near a local mall, so it may be easiest to eat at the museum itself.
What should I bring to the Museum of Science?
- Bottled water, if you prefer not to drink from the museum's fountains.
- Comfortable walking shoes. It's a sizable museum and you'll need some stamina.
- A camera or phone to catch all the memories at distinctive museum attractions. Take a selfie next to the huge T-rex or inside a space module.
What is there to see and do at the Museum of Science?
Frequently showcasing new temporary exhibits and activities, the museum is sure to be a great experience even if you have been there before. The Museum is full of permanent exhibits that will dazzle you and your family. Here are a few of our favorites we suggest you check out during your visit...
NEW FOR 2019: BODY WORLDS & The Cycle of Life
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz4lGjfpOUi/ BODY WORLDS & The Cycle of Life is the latest temporary exhibit to open at the Museum of Boston. It is open now until January 2020, and you should definitely try to see it before it closes. The exhibit features more than one hundred specimens, and examines what it means to be human. Please note: this exhibition is not included with general admission provided by the Go Boston pass. Tickets must be purchased separately.
Hall of Human Life
The Hall of Human Life is arguably the most informative and interactive room at the Museum of Science. The left side of the room breaks down human life into its most basic, yet compelling building blocks. These activities help structure kids’ developing perceptions in scientific fact. Plus, it's a fun way to be reminded as an adult of these biological essentials. The stations builds a biological understanding of humans from our social nature, to how DNA, cancer, diseases, and antibiotics all work inside the body. The right side is even more interactive, featuring a series of tests to collect your own personal attributes and health. But before you get caught up in the fascinating topics and experiments, make sure you visit the free-to-use Link Stations. Here, you'll receive a wristband to “link up” with the stations' interactions via barcode. This feature will track your scores at each station, like the height of your foot arch at the aptly named “How High are Your Arches” Station, or the stations where you can see how efficient your walking motion is, or how warm or cold you feel relatively. Afterwards you can access your scores from the Museum of Science website in order to help measure and manage your health.
Dinosaur Room
The "Modeling the Mesozoic" and the "Colossal Fossil: Triceratops Cliff" exhibits will delight the dinosaur lovers. You'll be treated to fascinating facts and information about all your favorite, and soon-to-be-favorite dinosaurs. The life-size T-rex, and the reconstructed bones of a triceratops bring the seemingly larger-than-life, ancient creatures to life like you've never seen before. The "Modeling the Mesozoic" exhibit delves into the methods of science behind hypothesizing where and how these animals lived, giving texture to the archeological remains we have today. You can also explore fossil clues as you roam through these models. Examine bones, footprints, and even dinosaur dung to look for information. Then, review the bones of a dinosaur, an iguana, and a bird to see how some dinosaurs are closely related to birds!
Science in the Park
Science in the Park
The Science in the Park educational playground will help your kids spend any pent-up extra energy they’ve been harboring since lunch, making good use of body and mind. Here, there are swings not just for swinging, but for demonstrating the physics of efficiency. There is a track to test speed with lights that light up as you pass them. The seesaw is fully equipped with a scientific explanation. You can also compete with a friend to see who can fun the fastest. Or, see how much force it takes to 500 pounds of sand with a lever. There's no end to the exciting physical explorations you can enjoy in this area!
Take a Closer Look
We especially recommend the Take a Closer Look exhibit for both kids and adults. There is relativity of hot and cold, the SEM camera, and the visual “sound” waves all contribute to suspending our static, commonplace view of stimuli, while at the same time drawing connections between seemingly disparate sensations that demonstrate the unification of reality.
Special Experiences
There are a number of additional experiences that visitors love, available for an additional upgrade fee (paid directly to the attraction).
- Charles Hayden Planetarium: This hi-tech digital planetarium hosts both typical planetarium shows and musical shows on the weekends.
- Mugar Omni Theater: Featuring top IMAX films with subjects like Pandas, Volcanoes, and the Great Barrier Reef.
- 4-D Theater: Shows here combined 3-D visual technology with additional special effects like air movement, temperature changes, water, and more.
- Butterfly Garden: A favorite with visitors from all over, this delightful exhibit is a respite from city living.
What attractions are near the Museum of Science?
- If you're interested in a unique tour of the city, the Boston Duck Tour is the perfect option and conveniently picks up right at the Museum of Science.
- Cambridgeside Galleria is a comprehensive mall located just a few blocks away, and is a local go-to shopping destination.
- A short hop across the river brings you to a number of other attractions, including TD Garden (home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics), the Otis House Museum, and the Museum of African American History.
Important Information
Hours: Saturday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Friday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm Location: 1 Science Park Boston, MA 02114 Public Transportation: Take the T: Green Line, Lechmere train, to Science Park stop. Note: Science Park stop is not wheelchair accessible; call the MBTA at 617-222-5000 for assistance.
Save on Tickets with a Go Boston pass
Remember, the Go Boston® pass is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Museum of Science tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price. For other fun ideas to add to your Boston itinerary, check out our ultimate Boston guide.
