Museum of Science: Museum and Zoo all in one!
A unique mix of both interactive exhibits and live animals, the organization that now calls itself simply the Museum of Science (MoS) traces its beginnings back 180 years and offers a level and complexity of programs befitting that history.
Located in Science Park along the Charles River, the MoS is a Boston landmark. With more than 500 interactive exhibits, the MoS features live presentations throughout the building every day, along with shows at the Charles Hayden Planetarium and the Mugar Omni IMAX Theater, the only domed IMAX screen in New England. But not only is it a museum in the standard definition, but it’s also home to over 100 animals, many of which have been rescued and rehabilitated from various dangerous situations.
More than 1.7 million people visit the MoS every year making it one of the most often visited educational points of significance in Boston. Compelling and interactive approaches keep museum visitors interested by actively showing how fun, exciting and significant science is.
Live demonstrations are of particular interest to visitors these days, so MoS launched "Science Live!" near the new "Natural Mysteries" exhibit. It also recently premiered "Discovering Chimpanzees: The Remarkable World of Jane Goodall.” This remarkable show features four exhibits and presents a more intimate examination of Goodall's life and work with chimps in Tanzania.
Other exhibits include “A Bird's World,” a virtual tour of Acadia National Park; “Beyond the X-Ray,” featuring the latest in medical technology imagery; and “Earth: Inside Out,” which explores the processes underneath the Earth's crust. New programs debut regularly, so check the MoS web site before visiting. There is also an IMAX theater – the only domed IMAX in New England (extra charge).
Also offered are podcasts, virtual exhibits, lectures and courses for kids and adults. The Lyman Library offers a broad collection of periodicals, books, videos, DVDs and CD-ROMs in the areas of technology, engineering and science for educators and students.
HelloBoston tips: Early morning or late afternoon visits are the best times to avoid crowds. While you’re in the neighborhood, consider planning time for the nearby Hayden Planetarium, the Fleet Center and the Sport's Museum.
- by Jim Brown , Boston Reporter for HelloMetro
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Jim Brown Jim Brown is a longtime freelance aviation, travel and destination writer and communications professional. A former reporter for Aviation Daily, Air Safety Week and World Airline News, Jim served for more than 15 years as a senior public relations executive for American Airlines, TWA and AirTran Airways.
