Boston Museum of Science

Of all the science museums I’ve visited, I’m most familiar with the Boston Museum of Science. Relatively speaking, it’s right next door to me.  When I visit, I plan to be there for the day, and I’m never bored. This is not an inexpensive day, but it is riveting.

My favorite things include the Butterfly Garden (additional fee),  the Rube Goldberg machine, the static electricity demo, any of the interactive exhibits, the 3D cinemas (SO different from the red/blue glasses 3D of my childhood), and anything that teaches me something I didn’t previously know.   That covers pretty much the whole museum.

The best way to take in the MOS is with a membership.  The biggest benefit to an MOS membership is that benefits are not limited to the MOS. Membership includes the Association of Science and Technology Center (ASTC) Passport Program, which includes 250 science and tech venues worldwide. Six in Massachusetts; eleven in New England. There are some limitations, but generally speaking, what a slamming deal this is for families and/or science buffs!

Photo credit: John E. Lester

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

This is an amazing venue. Anyone who’s listened to the radio any time between 1950 and today will know someone in the Hall of Fame whose music s/he holds dear. But the Hall of Fame in the peak of this building designed by I.M. Pei is just the beginning of what’s to see here. The museum holds an incredible amount of items of historical relevance. A lot of performers are represented within this structure. Exhibits are always changing.

Even though there is a fee to get into the main exhibits and the Hall of Fame, there are many events during the year that are free to the public. Check the website to see what’s coming up. If you may be visiting the Hall more than once, annual membership is completely reasonable.

Consider taking in Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum if you are anywhere near Cleveland. It’s well worth the trip.

Photo credit: artifishall