Optical Science Center and Museum - Hannibal MO - Glasses Optics Museums

Uniquely, this is the only museum in America dedicated to optics. The Optical Science Center and Museum in Hannibal is a one of a kind museum. With more than 4,00 square feet of displays and interactive media, the museum can easily be a 2 - 3 hour visit.

Located just blocks from the Mark Twain Boyhood Home, the Optical Center has more than 500 pairs of spectacles on display. Many can be tried on and several are novelty items. This provides entertainment for adults and children alike at the museum.

The museum also offers a computerized light show daily. The light show is one of the many optical tricks that can be experienced at the museum. Optical illusions and eyes are also scattered throughout the museum. Visitors are encouraged to try each one.

The museum promotes a hands-on learning environment, so giving each activity a fair try will provide a great deal of learning as well as laughter as visitor after visitor falls for the same visual ploys. Special events are also hosted in the summer at the museum.

The Optical Science Center and Museum is one of Hannibal's seasonal attractions. The museum is not open in the winter season or during major holidays, except by special appointment or for private events. The open season runs from April to October and the regular museum hours are 10 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Admission prices vary season to season, with discounts available to children, student groups, and seniors. Large groups will want to call ahead to make sure the museum is prepared. Reviews of groups have given mixed feedback as tight timeframes make it hard for everyone to play with the different illusions, so be sure to give the museum a couple of hours if there is a big crowd.