SEPTEMBER BUSINESS: Science Museum Oklahoma

The day-to-day routine of modern life—the morning commute, housework, errands—makes it easy to overlook the awe-inspiring complexity of life on Earth and beyond. Science Museum Oklahoma, now in its sixth decade in Oklahoma City, allows adults and kids alike to experience childlike wonder at the natural world and rekindles the human spirit of discovery.

Oklahoma has a proud history of native scientists. Gordon Cooper was one of the first Americans in space; Edwin Gilliland developed several innovative techniques in chemical engineering; Shannon Lucid was the first American mother to be selected as an astronaut. Today, the spirit of scientific inquiry continues at Science Museum Oklahoma.

Located in Oklahoma City’s Adventure District, the museum houses fascinating exhibits showcasing a variety of scientific phenomena in the natural world. “Science Museum Oklahoma plays a vital role in science education in Oklahoma,” says Linda Maisch, the museum’s Vice President of Community Engagement. “The museum channels everyone’s inner curiosity and playfulness into learning about science and the world around them.”

The 9,600 square foot “Science Floor” anchors the museum with dozens of interactive displays. The Tinkering Garage is a combination of science, design and art, which allows visitors to experience hands-on science in a workshop setting. For those with iron stomachs, the 2,500 square foot Grossology exhibit focuses on the science behind body odor, runny noses and other unsavory aspects of the human body. The museum and planetarium first opened in 1958 at the State Fairgrounds. The planetarium allows visitors to explore the night sky. The museum moved to its current location in 1978.

The museum’s latest exhibit—appropriately named CurioCity—is a 20,000 square foot showcase filled with a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can construct paper airplanes and toy cars, explore a cave dwelling with interactive water features, and do other activities all constructed to encourage interest in the natural sciences.

“Beyond making science fun, our goal is to show kids the way science education is applied and put into motion in their everyday lives.” Maisch says the museum tries to cultivate a lifelong fascination for science in Oklahoma’s children. “We love to inspire kids to explore science further, and maybe even pursue a career in the sciences. More importantly, we want Science Museum Oklahoma to fascinate, educate and inspire each person who walks in the door, because science is for everyone.”

For more information, call 602-6664 or visit sciencemuseumok.com.