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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Nicollet Island Inn
Radisson Blu Mall of America
Graduate by Hilton Minneapolis

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
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
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
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 offers a variety of engaging activities, including theater performances, live music, and art exhibitions. Visitors can enjoy special events like night trains admission and participate in hands-on maker workshops. The museum is a great place to explore science through interactive exhibits, making it an exciting destination for tourists looking to learn and have fun in St. Paul.

Shopping

For shopping near the Science Museum of Minnesota, visit Perfect Ash, just 3 miles away for unique gifts. Rosedale Center is 6 miles away, offering a mix of entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, Maplewood Mall, 7 miles away, provides a vibrant shopping experience.

Recreation

At the Science Museum of Minnesota, take a short walk to the serene Mississippi National River and Recreation Area for relaxation and wellness. For sports enthusiasts, Stoneridge Golf Club offers a beautiful outdoor setting. Nearby, U.S. Bank Stadium provides an energetic atmosphere for sports fans.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Sky Glider, located 4 miles from the Science Museum of Minnesota, offering breathtaking views. For hiking enthusiasts, the River Road Trail, 9 miles away, provides scenic outdoor adventures. Don't miss the Sky Ride, also 4 miles from the museum, for an exhilarating experience.

Nightlife

Experience vibrant nightlife near the Science Museum of Minnesota. Enjoy a captivating performance at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, just 0.1 miles away, or catch a show at the historic Fitzgerald Theater, located 0.4 miles away. The nearby Penumbra Theatre, 0.2 miles away, adds to the cultural vibe.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Science Museum of Minnesota

While visiting the Science Museum of Minnesota, you'll find a range of attractions to explore, including modern colleges, urban parks, and entertainment arenas. This vibrant area caters to those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and a taste of city life. Be sure to check out other local points of interest like the Minneapolis Museum and various attractions near the science museum for a well-rounded experience during your trip.

  • Xcel Energy Center: Located a mere 0.2 miles from the Science Museum, this premier arena offers a vibrant atmosphere for family-friendly entertainment, hosting concerts, sports events, and more, making it a must-visit for an exhilarating experience.
  • Minnesota State Fairgrounds: Situated 5 miles away, this expansive fairground is perfect for outdoor fun, featuring seasonal events, food festivals, and community gatherings, providing a delightful day out for families and friends.
  • University of Minnesota, Twin Cities: Also 5 miles from the Museum, this modern campus exudes a lively city vibe, with beautiful architecture, art galleries, and cultural events that reflect the dynamic spirit of student life.

Best time to go to Science Museum of Minnesota

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January15.1°F (-9.4°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February17.1°F (-8.3°C)No RainMostly 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 RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December22.1°F (-5.5°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Science Museum of Minnesota

To save money on your trip to the Science Museum of Minnesota, consider visiting during the off-peak months of March or December to January when accommodation prices are lower. Plan your stay for a Monday to benefit from reduced rates, avoiding the more expensive Saturdays. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotel options, and take advantage of their package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities. Joining Expedia’s One Key membership can also unlock exclusive discounts and earn you cash for future bookings. Lastly, explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • 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 customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Science Museum of Minnesota with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • 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.

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