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Although The Discovery was originally founded as a children’s museum, it is not just for kids anymore.
There was a time when the museum experience at The Discovery was designed to appeal predominantly to children ages 12 and under, but that time is gone. Over the past 12 years, many changes and additions have been made to the museum to transform it into a hands-on science center for learners of every age — from 1 to 101.
For example, Mental Health: Mind Matters, the museum’s current featured exhibition is designed primarily for adults and teens. Although there are exhibits and experiences suitable for young learners, the exhibition is primarily designed to help teens and adults explore a variety of facets of mental health.
In May 2022, The Discovery opened Energy/Energía. This new 1,800 square-foot, bilingual exhibition includes more than 20 hands-on exhibits focused on energy generation, use, and storage. By featuring energy innovation happening right here in Northern Nevada, museum visitors have the opportunity to explore foundational energy concepts, learn what it takes to solve energy challenges, and leave inspired to discover more.
An example of programing design specifically for adults is the Science Distilled lecture series. Science Distilled events are adults-only and feature presentations from Desert Research Institute and University of Nevada researchers, and industry experts. This series is designed to share the amazing scientific research being done in our region with curious members of our community.
One of the most popular adults-only programs at The Discovery is our science exploration series called Social Science. Social Science events happen four times a year and each one of themed different. Attendees can explore a variety of activities related to the theme and the entire museum, all while enjoying lite bites and beer or wine.
Another addition to the museum that has proven attractive to visitors of all ages is Mindbender Mansion. This exciting exhibition features more than 40 brainteasers and group challenges guaranteed to test the brainpower and problem solving skills of even the most advanced puzzlers. Mindbender Mansion was initially unveiled as a temporary exhibition, but is now part of The Discovery’s permanent collection of exhibitions.
So why would an organization founded as a children’s museum want to morph into a science center? The answer is simple: to broaden the impact of its mission. A science center can serve learners of all ages, children included, with relevant and impactful science learning opportunities. That task is not so easy for a children’s museum. By functioning as a science center in our community, The Discovery can serve early learners, adults and a very important segment of our population, teens. By cultivating the more in-depth learning experiences found in a science center, The Discovery helps raise the bar for learning opportunities in our community.
The results of The Discovery’s transformation are already beginning to be seen. In 2019 alone, The Discovery welcomed nearly 200,000 eager visitors through its doors. Locals are proud to have The Discovery as an exemplar in our community, and tourists are impressed that our region is home to such a large-scale science center. With the continued support of members, volunteers and donors, The Discovery will continue its transformation and its mission to inspire by being the place to explore science.
