Museum of Science and Industry

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The Idea Factory provides children with endless opportunities for scientific exploration through interactive activities, which allow them to discover scientific principles for themselves. This engaging experience is a “must” for families with young children up to 10 years old.

Children can explore the attributes of four basic objects: cube, sphere, tetrahedron and cylinder. Using these objects, they’ll experiment and test their own theories about the fundamentals of construction, simple machines, light, color, magnetism, balance, air and water. For example, kids aged three to five years can explore the effect of differently shaped wheels on the speed and flow of movement and how air pressure affects the flow of bubbles.

Construction Crane encourages children to use hand-eye coordination to retrieve and move objects with an electromagnetic crane. Kids aged 6-10 years can use a crane to lift heavier objects remotely and determine how weight affects distribution of balance. They can also observe the different ways to manipulate white light versus laser light using prisms, lenses and mirrors.

The Water Spectacle contains 3,300 gallons of water and invites children to build and navigate their own boats, discover how water moves objects and help set off the great geyser—an enormous water spray that is triggered by manipulation of hand and foot controls.

Important Exhibit Information

• Amenities like in-exhibit restrooms and a nursing room ensure a worry-free visit for caregivers.
• To ensure optimal guest experience, the Museum limits the number of visitors using the space at any one time.
• All children entering the Idea Factory must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone.