Boonshoft Museum of Discovery - Dayton, Ohio

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in Dayton, Ohio is packed full of hands-on stations for kids to discover and learn about science. There is enough for kids to see for at least a half-day experience. If you plan to visit with younger kids or want to see an IMAX movie at the museum, then plan more time for your visit.

If you are visiting the museum from out of town and have a family membership at your local science center, bring your membership card. The Boonshoft Museum allows members of other specific science centers free or discounted admission to their museum. For guests who live in the Dayton area and plan to visit the museum more than twice a year, buying a Boonshoft membership makes a lot of sense. Also, for large families, a membership may be less expensive than only two visits to the museum.

Where to Find Science Information at Boonshoft:

The Boonshoft Museum is filled with fun, interactive stations and activities that promote learning about science. Kids can begin exploring on their own in many of the areas of the museum or parents can walk them through and help them read the information provided, so they can understand what they are learning.

Oscar Boonshoft Science Central

Science Central is a busy area filled with hands-on activities kids love. This area is centrally located in the museum and can be described as part science exhibit and part playground.

Splash!

Splash is a unique exhibit that concentrates on water use in the Miami Valley. It is a great exhibit to find out more about how water resources are collected, cleaned, and used by people. There is also a section about sanitation of the water, including a water sewer system. Splash! shows how waste water is treated and returned to nature.

Hall of the Universe

The story of the universe is told in this area of the museum. A recently added exhibit about our sun now helps kids to understand our solar system. The Hall of the Universe area is near the Carl Philips planetarium dome. Check the museum schedule for the planetarium show schedule on the day of your visit.

Science on a Sphere

Science on a Sphere is a very interesting audio visual demonstration featuring the planets and space. Kids love the effects of the changing globe, as information about space is presented. This show previously required a separate ticket, but now is included with the regular admission price.

Discovery Zoo

Not only can kids discover traditional science at the Boonshoft Museum, but there is also a built-in zoo. The zoo features animals that are smaller in size, but offers a great way for kids to explore biology. The Discovery Zoo is open year-round, so weather is not a factor when visiting.

Explorers Crossing

The Explorers Crossing area is part history of the Miami Valley (Dayton) area and science. It is located in the second floor near the Discovery Zoo. Exhibits about local businesses, recycling and more are included in this area. If you are from the Dayton area or want to learn more about the history of the Miami Valley, Explorers Crossing is very interesting.