Museum of Science — Attraction in Cambridge

Not long ago, I encountered a thought-provoking perspective shared by a friend on Facebook that illuminated a significant issue: many museums located in vibrant urban centers often charge admission fees as a strategy to manage the flow of visitors. A prime example of this practice is the Museum of Science in Boston, which imposes an entry fee that starkly contrasts with its esteemed peers, like the North Carolina Museum of History and various natural history institutions in Raleigh, which generously welcome guests without charge.

What renders this situation particularly enthralling is the perspective that the Museum of Science in Boston can be perceived as a more succinct iteration of the sprawling Museum of Life and Science in Durham, along with the Greensboro Science Center in North Carolina. The distinctions between these institutions transcend superficial differences; they epitomize the distinctive offerings and experiences that each venue provides. For instance, the Durham museum boasts outdoor exhibits featuring life-sized dinosaur replicas—an exhilarating draw for both children and adults. Additionally, it proudly showcases quintessential highlights of North Carolina, including enchanting treehouses, a mesmerizing Butterfly House teeming with fluttering wonders, charming small zoos, and a plethora of outdoor activities that beckon visitors to immerse themselves in the splendor of nature and the marvels of science through interactive engagement.

In addition to its admission fees, the Museum of Science in Boston complicates its financial model even further by charging for parking, thereby inflating the overall expense associated with a visit. This practice raises essential questions about accessibility and inclusivity in cultural institutions. Should these bastions of knowledge and exploration erect barriers that prevent individuals from accessing their invaluable resources? It is vital that we champion a more equitable framework for museum admissions—one that prioritizes community involvement over mere profit maximization. By advocating for such an approach, we can ensure that the enchanting realms of science and history remain accessible to all, cultivating a society where curiosity transcends economic...

Excellent museum with really wonderful hands-on activities for kids and adults. Excellent displays on a range of topics from electronics and math to rocks and minerals and fossils to animals to architecture and playgrounds. A nice size to see in an afternoon or a day. Halls and rooms are a good human scale other than the old stairway which is a little low in the ceiling. Convenient access from the science museum rail station (green line) diagonally across the street and walkable from various directions and hotels.

Definitely recommend that you see a planetarium show, especially if - just a little biased here - our kid is the one doing the presenting 😎. And while you are by the planetarium, check out the display of the planets of our solar system in small metal form. They are proportionately sized though no longer spaced from the model of the Sun that's there as they used to be. This display is part of a geocache, "Solar System" (https://coord.info/GCB6DA).

Could have used a little improvement in terms of signage - was very difficult to locate the Eames/Mathematics room even though we'd been told where to go. And that one is not accessible while a lightning show is going on.

Similarly, the wonderful rock garden out front - which is free to view at any time, as you don't need a ticket - is interesting but the numbered map that used to be online no longer seems to be available. And there weren't any printed ones. I asked three different people at the info desk. Please put printed maps out, hopefully with blurbs on the back corresponding with the blurbs on the signs so that you can take it home with you or at least find things more easily. There is an official Earthcache associated with this rock garden, "Rock Stahs! - The Rock Gahden of MoS" (https://coord.info/GC3DEMV)

Very nice range of food options in the cafeteria, including some healthy yummy salads and burgers and pizza and sandwiches and fresh fruit. Interesting, extensive museum shop. Great view of the water from the tables in the back.

Plentiful, clean bathrooms. Appreciated the hand dispensers all over, with funny signs about washing your paws/claws. Also liked the funny signs when something was...

I recently took my family to the Museum of Science, and overall, it was a pleasant experience. While it didn't leave us completely awestruck, it proved to be an enjoyable outing, especially for the kids.

The museum offered a diverse range of exhibits and activities, catering to both children and adults. One of the highlights of our visit was the programming section, which our kids absolutely loved. The interactive displays and hands-on activities allowed them to engage in learning while having fun. It was fantastic to see their curiosity piqued as they dived into the world of coding and technology.

The staff at the museum were friendly and helpful, always ready to answer our questions and guide us through the various exhibits. This added a positive touch to our visit, making us feel welcome and appreciated.

However, the main drawback we encountered was the lack of mind-blowing exhibits or unique attractions. The museum offered a solid collection of scientific knowledge, but we couldn't help but feel that it lacked that extra spark to make it truly memorable. Some areas felt a bit outdated and could benefit from regular updates to keep up with the latest advancements in science and technology.

Additionally, while the programming section was fantastic, we noticed that other sections lacked the same level of interactive engagement. The kids enjoyed the hands-on experiences, and we wished there were more of these opportunities throughout the museum.

Another aspect that could be improved is the dining options within the museum.

Despite these shortcomings, the Museum of Science remains a decent destination for families looking to spend an educational and entertaining day together. It might not have blown us away, but the kids' enjoyment in the programming section made it worth the visit. With a bit of enhancement in certain areas, this museum has the potential to become a top-notch attraction for all ages.

If you have children who are interested in technology and programming, the Museum of Science is definitely worth a visit. Just keep in mind that it might not be the most mind-blowing museum...