Science Museum of Minnesota

The Science Museum of Minnesota, located in the vibrant city of Saint Paul, is a treasure trove of knowledge and wonder that draws visitors from all corners of the globe. This renowned institution has been igniting curiosity and fostering a love for science since its founding in 1907. As you step into this modern marvel of architecture and innovation, prepare to embark on a journey through time and space, exploring the fascinating realms of technology, natural history, physical science, and mathematics.

The History of the Science Museum of Minnesota

The roots of the Science Museum of Minnesota can be traced back to 1906, when a group of visionary businessmen led by Charles W. Ames established the St. Paul Institute of Science and Letters. Initially housed at the St. Paul Auditorium on Fourth Street, the museum aimed to promote intellectual and scientific growth in the community. In 1909, a brief merger with the St. Paul School of Fine Arts (now the Minnesota Museum of American Art) occurred, further expanding its reach.

In 1927, the museum found a new home in the Merriam Mansion on Capitol Hill, offering increased exhibit storage space. The museum continued to grow, and in 1964, it moved to the St. Paul-Ramsey Arts and Sciences Center at 30 East Tenth Street. By 1978, the museum expanded again, this time to a new area on Wabasha Street, complete with a skyway connection and an IMAX Dome (OMNIMAX) cinema.

The museum's current location, adjacent to the Mississippi River, opened its doors on December 11, 1999. This state-of-the-art facility, designed by the architecture firm Ellerbe Becket, was made possible through public funding initiatives. During the move, an impressive 1.75 million artifacts were transported to the new site, ensuring that the museum's rich collection continued to inspire and educate.

Exploring the Exhibits

The Science Museum of Minnesota boasts a diverse array of permanent and rotating exhibits that cater to visitors of all ages. One of the highlights is the Dinosaurs & Fossils Gallery, where you can marvel at original and replicated dinosaur skeletons from the Mesozoic Era, including a Triceratops, Diplodocus, and Allosaurus. The gallery also features fascinating specimens from the Cenozoic Era, such as a giant terror bird and an armored glyptodont.

In the Human Body Gallery, visitors can explore the intricacies of the human body through interactive displays that showcase various tissues, organs, and systems. One of the standout features is the 'Weighing the Evidence' exhibit, which helps visitors separate fact from fiction in healthcare decisions. This gallery also houses artifacts from the former Museum of Questionable Medical Devices, adding a touch of whimsy and intrigue.

For those with a penchant for hands-on learning, the Experiment Gallery offers a playground of interactive displays that delve into concepts in physics, math, and earth science. Meanwhile, Sportsology provides an engaging exploration of the body in motion, allowing visitors to test their athletic abilities and learn about the science behind sports.

The museum also tackles important social issues with exhibits like RACE: Are We So Different?, which explores the stories of race from biological, cultural, and historical perspectives. Additionally, We Move & We Stay delves into the rich history and culture of the Dakota and Ojibwe people, offering a deeper understanding of the region's indigenous heritage.

The Omnitheater

One of the museum's most iconic features is the Omnitheater, a convertible dome IMAX theater that offers an immersive cinematic experience. This cutting-edge theater can switch between a wall screen for IMAX films and a rotating dome for IMAX dome presentations. When it opened in 1999, it boasted the largest permanently installed electronic cinema projector in the world.

In 2019, the Omnitheater underwent a significant upgrade, converting to digital laser technology and reopening as the world's third-largest digital laser IMAX dome theater. The museum has produced several acclaimed giant screen films, including 'Jane Goodall’s Wild Chimpanzees,' 'Tornado Alley,' and 'National Parks Adventure,' ensuring that visitors are treated to breathtaking visual journeys.

Educational Outreach and Research

The Science Museum of Minnesota is not just a place for exhibits; it is also a hub for education and research. The museum's Center for Research and Collections maintains an extensive collection of over 1.7 million artifacts, objects, and specimens. Researchers in biology, paleontology, anthropology, water quality, and climate change conduct groundbreaking studies and engage with the public through outreach programs.

The museum's St. Croix Watershed Research Station, located in Marine-on-St. Croix, Minnesota, serves as the headquarters for a team of scientists dedicated to studying water around the world. Additionally, the Kitty Andersen Youth Science Center (KAYSC) provides an informal learning environment for young people, fostering a passion for science and discovery.

The IDEAL Center (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, and Leadership) offers leadership development training to school districts, universities, and informal education organizations, ensuring that the museum's impact extends far beyond its walls.

Special Exhibitions and Events

The Science Museum of Minnesota hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year, each offering unique insights into different aspects of science and culture. Past exhibitions have included 'BODY WORLDS,' 'Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs,' 'Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination,' and 'The Science Behind Pixar.'

These rotating exhibitions, along with the museum's extensive permanent collections, ensure that there is always something new and exciting to discover. Whether you're fascinated by ancient civilizations, cutting-edge technology, or the wonders of the natural world, the Science Museum of Minnesota has something to captivate your imagination.

In conclusion, the Science Museum of Minnesota is a beacon of knowledge and exploration, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. From its rich history and diverse exhibits to its state-of-the-art Omnitheater and educational outreach programs, this museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with a thirst for discovery. So, come and explore the wonders of science, and let your curiosity take flight at the Science Museum of Minnesota!