Science Museum of Minnesota Tours

Science Museum of Minnesota featuring interior views
Science Museum of Minnesota showing street scenes and signage
Science Museum of Minnesota
Science Museum of Minnesota which includes interior views
Science Museum of Minnesota featuring interior views as well as a family


Explore the wonders of nature, ancient artifacts and mind-blowing technology at this center, with an Omnitheater and interactive exhibits.

With many permanent and traveling exhibitions, an educational program and a nine-story-high IMAX theater, learning about science in this interactive center is enjoyable for visitors of all ages.The Science Museum of Minnesota has followed the history of anthropology, geology, science and technology since it opened in 1907. One of the earliest pieces in the collection was a mummy shipped from Egypt. The institution now has more than 1.75 million artifacts and specimens.Head straight to the popular Dinosaurs and Fossils Gallery. Not many museums in the world have an almost complete triceratops skeleton mounted, so get your photo taken here with this beast that lived almost 66 million years ago. Find more prehistoric wonders at the Primeval Swamp exhibit, dedicated to a time when crocodiles ruled the North American landscape. Volunteers will help you examine your own cells under a microscope and extract DNA from plants at the Human Body and Cell Lab. Visit the Perception Theater, which runs 20-minute programs exploring the magic of your mind. Older children love the Experiment Gallery, where they can control waves, energy and tornadoes. The Collections Gallery has interactive stations as well, including the Questionable Medical Devices exhibit.The museum has an outdoor exhibit that shows how the elements shape the landscape. Play on the EarthScapes mini-golf course and see how water moves from mountains to the ocean. Head to the Mississippi Gallery to learn about life on a riverboat. If you need a break from browsing, take a seat in the IMAX Convertible Dome Omnitheater and watch movies about science and nature.The Science Museum of Minnesota is located in downtown St. Paul on the Mississippi River. Pay to park on site. It’s also easy to get here via public transport. The museum is closed on Mondays, except during school holidays. Pay for a combined ticket for the Omnitheater and museum, or opt to visit just one of them.

Plan a trip to see Science Museum of Minnesota

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Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Downtown
Graduate by Hilton Minneapolis
Radisson Blu Mall of America

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Science Museum of Minnesota

The Saint Paul Hotel

The Saint Paul Hotel

4 out of 5
350 Market St, St. Paul, MN
The Saint Paul Hotel
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront by IHG

InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront by IHG

4 out of 5
11 Kellogg Blvd E, St. Paul, MN
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront by IHG
Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG

Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG

3 out of 5
175 7th Street W, St. Paul, MN
Holiday Inn St. Paul Downtown by IHG
Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy The Fitz Apartments Downtown St Paul

Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy The Fitz Apartments Downtown St Paul

3.5 out of 5
77 9th Street East, St. Paul, MN
Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy The Fitz Apartments Downtown St Paul
Celeste of St Paul

Celeste of St Paul

3 out of 5
26 Exchange Street E, St. Paul, MN
Celeste of St Paul
Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown

Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown

3 out of 5
175 10th St E, St. Paul, MN
Drury Plaza Hotel St. Paul Downtown
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Paul Downtown

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Paul Downtown

4 out of 5
411 Minnesota St, St. Paul, MN
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Paul Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown St. Paul

Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown St. Paul

2.5 out of 5
200 Seventh St W, St. Paul, MN
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown St. Paul
Hyatt Place St. Paul/Downtown

Hyatt Place St. Paul/Downtown

3.5 out of 5
180 Kellogg Boulevard East, St. Paul, MN
Hyatt Place St. Paul/Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Science Museum of Minnesota

The Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul offers a variety of engaging activities, including exploring interactive exhibits and enjoying captivating theater performances. Visitors can also indulge in nearby shopping and live music events. Be sure to read reviews to enhance your experience and discover fun things to do in the area. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just looking for a great day out, the museum and its surroundings have something for everyone.

Shopping

The closest shopping destination is Perfect Ash, located 3 miles away, offering unique gifts. Rosedale Center and Maplewood Mall, both within 6 to 7 miles, feature a variety of shops and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, explore more extensive shopping experiences in nearby areas.

Recreation

At the Science Museum of Minnesota, enjoy wellness activities at the nearby Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, perfect for relaxation. For sports enthusiasts, Stoneridge Golf Club offers outdoor recreation. Additionally, U.S. Bank Stadium, just 8 miles away, immerses you in energetic sports vibes.

Adventure

The Sky Ride offers a thrilling aerial view of the Twin Cities, located 4 miles from the Science Museum of Minnesota. For hiking enthusiasts, the River Road Trail, 9 miles away, features scenic paths along the river with stunning outdoor vibes. Experience the Sky Glider for an exhilarating ride back!

Nightlife

At night, the Science Museum of Minnesota buzzes with excitement. Nearby, the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts (0.1 mile) and Fitzgerald Theater (0.4 mile) showcase captivating performances, while the Penumbra Theatre (0.2 mile) offers rich cultural experiences, perfect for families and couples seeking entertainment.

Find the best attractions near Science Museum of Minnesota

If you're visiting the Science Museum of Minnesota, you'll find a variety of attractions nearby that cater to all types of travelers. Explore the Minneapolis Institute of Art, enjoy the lush urban parks, or take in an event at local arenas. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly activities, there's plenty to discover in the area surrounding the museum.

  • Xcel Energy Center: Located a short 0.2 miles from the Science Museum of Minnesota, this vibrant arena offers a thrilling atmosphere for family-friendly entertainment, hosting everything from sports events to concerts.
  • University of Minnesota, Twin Cities: Situated 5 miles away, this modern university boasts beautiful campus grounds and a lively urban vibe, perfect for leisurely walks, exploring academic exhibitions, and enjoying cultural events.
  • Minnesota State Fairgrounds: Also 5 miles from the museum, this expansive fairground features a range of outdoor activities and family-friendly events, including the iconic Minnesota State Fair, celebrated for its great food and attractions.

Best time to go to Science Museum of Minnesota

Visitor numbers around Science Museum of Minnesota is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Science Museum of Minnesota can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Science Museum of Minnesota falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Science Museum of Minnesota falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January15.1°F (-9.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February17.1°F (-8.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March32.7°F (0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November35.4°F (1.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
December22.1°F (-5.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Science Museum of Minnesota

To save money on your visit to the Science Museum of Minnesota, plan your trip in March or between December and January for lower accommodation prices. Avoid weekends, especially Saturdays, for the best rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels, filtering for eco-certified options, and consider booking a package that includes flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and the opportunity to earn cash for future stays. Utilize public transportation or walk to explore the area affordably.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Science Museum of Minnesota are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Science Museum of Minnesota is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Science Museum of Minnesota is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase available sustainable and eco-friendly hotels. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at the Science Museum of Minnesota with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.