Get Out!

Unstructured, freely chosen play promotes children’s healthy growth and development, but many kids don’t get enough free play, especially outdoors. The warm summer months invite kids to indulge in more carefree, active, outdoor play that is not as available during the school year. This summer, we're offering an array of powerful outdoor play experiences on the Museum's grounds and well beyond.

Splash in the fountain and soak up the sun in the Museum's native Children’s Garden – a perfect place to play, explore and take a break with a picnic lunch. Wriggle and stretch through the sculptural two-story-high Climber, an enclosed maze of undulating platforms. Adventure through the whimsical subterranean world of Underland and discover root systems, worm tunnels and critters’ burrows. A selection of toys – including jump ropes, hula hoops and bouncing balls – promotes active, physical play.

Explore the Museum’s great outdoors during active programs all summer long:

• Get Out! – Try fun hands-on activities each Tuesday in July and August from 1:00 - 3:00 PM. Use the power of air to send rockets soaring, mix up mud pies, build channels to move water, and more. Learn more.
• Wheels at Work – Climb aboard a different working vehicle on Wednesdays in July and August from 10:00 AM - Noon. Learn more.
• Bubble Blowout – Blow bubbles big and small and experiment with different bubble-blowing techniques on July 28 and 29 from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM.
• Worm World – Observe how worms wiggle and investigate a wormy habitat on August 10 and 11 from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. 

Check the calendar for additional details and plenty of other hands-on fun, and stay tuned to learn more about our new "pop-up play" initiative. Have a playful summer!