Boston Museum of Science

Activity Overview

The Boston Museum of Science boasts an extensive collection of exciting science-based exhibits, both permanent and temporary. So much to explore & discover - there is always something new at the Science Museum.

Things to Do & See

In the main Museum of Science building, check out the natural animal habitats offering hands-on taxidermy, a full-size Tyrannosaurus rex model, real chickens hatching from their eggs, a replica of the first space capsule. and a butterfly garden (small additional fee with timed entry).

Children's Discovery Center

For little ones, the Boston Science Museum has a Discovery Center located directly across from the musical stairs offers a safe, enclosed play area specifically designed for children under five. There are two floors to explore, with tunnels, puzzles, an interactive light stick design corner & puppets. Terrariums, some of which have transparent domes, allow toddlers to safely view little animals in their natural environment.

Theater of Electricity

The Van de Graaff generator provides a risk-free opportunity to witness lightning at a close range. Lightning shows are daily at 12:00 noon and 2:00pm with a 7:00pm Friday show.

Chick Hatching Station

Fascinating for all ages. Learn about the development of chicks and watch them as they hatch from their shells right before your eyes. Exhibit is part of the 'Human Body Connection.'

Charles Hayden Planetarium

The Planetarium at the Boston Science Museum is a high-tech, celestial adventure and the most technologically advanced planetarium in New England. Please click here for showtimes.

Mugar Omni IMAX Theater

The Mugar Omni Theater at Museum of Science presents larger-than-life images on a domed screen that reaches five stories high. It’s New England's only 180-degree IMAX® dome.

Science Live! Stage

Science really comes to life with the new state-of-the-art Science Live! Stage. The stage, designed especially for live animal and multi-media presentations, is surrounded by natural history dioramas and equipped with Dolby surround sound, a computer-controlled lighting system, a LCD projector, and a microscope-mounted camera.

Free “Friday Night Stargazing”

The Gilliland Observatory, located atop the Museum of Science’s garage roof, is open for free viewing on Friday evenings, first-come, first-served. Visitors are encouraged to attend the Friday 7 p.m. planetarium showing of “The Sky Tonight” as background for the viewing session. Call the Gilliland Observatory Hotline for viewing status and hours at 617/589-0267. Friday evenings, approx. 8:30-10:00 p.m., weather permitting.

Duck Boat departure site

Take a fun tour by land and by sea of Boston with Boston Duck Tours. If you are interested in taking this tour, Boston Duck Tour tickets must be purchased in advance online or (617) 267-DUCK (March 29 – November 28). Same day tickets may be available, but are usually extremely limited.

Boston Museum of Science Insider Tips

• Parking is available at the Boston Science Museum for 1,000 cars. Hourly rates apply. The garage fills up on busy days, and may close temporarily until spaces become available. (The view of the city out over the Charles River from the upper parking levels is very nice indeed.)
• If you live in the Boston area, consider investing in a membership. Membership benefits include 2 hours of free parking at every visit, free admittance to the museum and a bunch of partner organizations like the Roger Williams Zoo, passes to IMAX movies and Planetarium shows, and lots more.
• Arrive early on weekends (before 11:00 a.m.) or late (after 3:00 p.m.) to avoid crowds. If you come late, be sure to order your tickets in advance if you are interested in seeing a movie or show. Take public transportation if you can: Green Line to Science Park.
• The Museum features a food court with options that include Wolfgang Pucks Pizza; Mexican Food, Soups, Sandwiches, Salads & such. The cafeteria is large and accommodates a decent number of people - window seats give you a beautiful view of the Charles River.
• During the summer, it's a short walk from the Museum to the Charles Bank Playground, which has a spray park to cool off on hot summer days. (Bathing suits are required). The Charles River Esplanade is about a 15 minute walk and includes beautiful views of sailboats on the river near Community Boating & Sailing, The Hatch Shell, and another excellent playground.