A mix of science, history, and play spread across 3-4 floors🔬 There are so many unique artifacts, exhibits, and experiences that make MSI an engaging learning experience for all ages!

If you're looking for something more space oriented, MSI is more limited. True to it's name, there's a significant focus on inventions and innovations in history, biology, and transportation.

MSI does an excellent job incorporating hands-on learning experiences for any age group, and often have 2-4 stations that allow multiple people to try something at one time. Information can be seen and understood by most people.

My favorite exhibits were Lower Level's U-505 Submarine + Swiss Jolly Ball + Fairy Castle, Main Level's Science Storm + Yesterday's Main Street, Balcony Level's You Experience + Science Storm, and the Pioneer Zephyr on the way out! If you can only do one Special Exhibition, highly recommend Pompeii or the U-505 tour!

Christmas Around the World exhibit is a must-see in December/early-January! There are trees spread throughout the main level, decorated by different organizations to represent various countries. Each has information about that country's traditions and symbols during the holidays. Information is also included in the country's native language.

Free, timed tickets can be obtained on-site by the exhibit itself for the mirror maze and blue paradox (both of which are suitable for adults, children and families)

Navigation: The exhibit halls are laid out in almost a circular fashion which make it easy to navigate. The lower level is more sectional/linear and has more kid-oriented exhibits like farm tech and the idea factory BUT also gives you access to the fairy castle, submarine and the world's largest pinball machine!

Cost: $25.95 / adult and $14.95 / child (ages 3-11), buying a membership can help families, groups looking to do special experiences/exhibits, with parking, and other local museums (even if it's a one time trip)

Transportation: MSI is most easily accessible by car and there's a paid MSI-owned and operated garage. You can also get here via public transit from downtown, either the green line and 55 or the 6 will take you directly there, about a 40-60min commute

Restrooms: Found throughout exhibits and were well maintained, often had water fountains near them

Other helpful information: Coat/item check is available but costs per item; food is available and limited though there are doughnuts, you can bring outside food and drinks but you can only eat in designated spots

For avid penny collectors, the machines are $1.01 (4 quarters and 1 penny). Change machines are located right next to the penny machines. These machines are located throughout the museum and pennies typically correlate to the exhibit they're near