Franklin Institute

Category:

Museums

Location:

Parkway District

Price:

Under $20

Demographic:

All ages above five

URL:

http://www.fi.edu

The Franklin Institute was founded in 1824 to teach the mechanical arts. Since that time, however, it has developed into a first class museum dedicated to showing the wonders of science and technology. Permanent exhibits include:

The Giant Heart: A Healthy Interactive Experience: Walk through a giant model heart,
experiencing what it is like to be blood cell. You can also learn about innovations in diagnosis and treatment, and how to live a healthy lifestyle.

Space Command: Learn about the history of space research and see if you have what it takes to be an astronaut.

Sports Challenge: Learn the science behind excelling in some of your favorite sports.

The Franklin Air Show: See an original 1911 Wright Model B Flyer and learn the science behind aviation.

Sir Isaac’s Loft: Learn the principles of physics through a number of energetic interactive exhibits. Try to lift yourself on a pulley, or face the Bowling Ball of Doom as it swings within inches of your face.

The Train Factory: Learn how trains work and investigate a train wreck.

Franklin…He’s Electric: Learn about the many scientific contributions of Benjamin Franklin, as well as the Franklin Institute.

KidScience: A special area designed for children ages five to eight, where they can explore the Island of the Elements and learn the principles of Air, Earth, Light, and Water.

Besides permanent exhibits, the Franklin Institute also features a number of varying temporary exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a
planetarium. Schedules of exhibits and theater screenings can be found on the museum’s website.