Mid-America Science Museum, Hot Springs National Park, AR - Museum

A place that is sure to spark the mind of the young toward science would have to be the Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs National Park, AR. The museum has many hands-on exhibits that will bring science to light and will entertain them as well.

The Museum has been popular ever since it opened its doors in 1979. At that time, Governor Bill Clinton dedicated it in its Grand Opening Ceremony. Since that time, it has gone on to earn many awards and recognitions for its work. As early as 1995, it was given the "Parent's Choice" award from the Best Museum for Families in 1995. It also works with both NASA and the Smithsonian.

There are a number of programs for different groups to come and enjoy the wonders of the science museum. This includes school groups, homeschool groups, Boy Scouts, and other ones, too. Special programs include demonstrations in Geology and Geography, Museum Math, Force, Motion and Machines, Energy, and more. Each one is sure to amaze and intrigue the minds of those who see these demonstrations.

A number of exhibits are on display for the visitors. More than 100 of them are hands-on, and will excite the kids to want to learn more. Some of them include a virtual reality simulator ride, laser shows, several Sir Rowland Emmett machines, a giant indoor cave, and more. Some of these exhibits change with new ones that are borrowed from other museums.

Probably the most spectacular exhibit would have to be the giant Tesla Coil. It is the largest one in the world. This coil will produce more than 1.5 million volts of static electricity. The power is sure to impress all ages with their demonstration in the Caged Lightning Exhibit. Recently, the couple that set up this exhibit, Richard and Mary Ellen Mathias, carry around a smaller version (only 400,000 volts) for group demonstrations. They also talk about the inventor, Nicolas Tesla, and his part and contribution to bringing electricity to the modern world.

Newton's Corner is a set of six exhibits that explore Newton's three laws of motion. This is designed to get the attention of the children and cause them to think. The exhibits include the Magnetic Wave Machine, Floating Objects, the Gravity Powered Calculator, and more.

Specially scheduled events also take place at various times in the museum. One of the regular programs is called Saturday Science and a once a month topic is selected. Recent ones, as well as some in the near future include classes like Astronopoly, Icky Science, Nano of Nasturtiums, Museum Math, and more. The schedule is always changing, so be sure to check and see what is taking place before you go.

Southwest Dairy Farmers also have an exhibit that seeks to explain how milk is produced. The museum's cow, "Buttercup," explains it all to them and then they can milk the cow.

When you come to the Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs National Park, AR, be sure to bring the whole family for a fun and educational time. The museum does have a snack bar that is only open seasonally. Before you leave, be sure to visit the Gift Shop, too, for more science fun at home.