The Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS) is a gem in downtown Asheville, North Carolina, offering a world of discovery for families and kids. This dynamic science museum is a haven for young learners, particularly those aged 3-12, eager to explore interactive and hands-on exhibits. AMOS is dedicated to sparking imagination, fueling a passion for discovery, and fostering lifelong curiosity. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with many exhibits that promise to engage and entertain. Whether it's a rainy day or a sunny afternoon, AMOS provides an educational and fun-filled experience that will leave your kids begging for more. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the wonders of science!
Highlights
- Colburn Hall of Minerals: Explore a stunning collection of local minerals and gemstones.
- Interactive Science Exhibits: Engage with fossils, climbing structures, and a splash zone.
- STEM Lab: Participate in educational programs and the Little Explorer's Club.
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Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Asheville Museum of Science is worth visiting with kids because it offers a variety of engaging activities tailored for young minds. Children aged 3-12 will find the interactive exhibits particularly captivating, such as the climbing structure and water play area. The museum's hands-on approach makes learning fun and memorable, ensuring that kids stay curious and excited about science.
AMOS is designed to be family-friendly, making it a perfect destination for a day out with the kids. The museum includes a toddler foam block area for the youngest visitors, ensuring that even the littlest ones have a safe and fun space to explore. With street-level access and amenities like a museum cafe and gift shop, families can easily spend a whole day exploring and learning together.
In summary, the Asheville Museum of Science offers an enriching experience for children through its interactive exhibits, hands-on learning opportunities, and diverse educational programs. It's a place where kids can explore, play, and learn, making it a must-visit destination for families in Asheville.
Family-friendly Features
- Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on activities that engage kids and make learning fun.
- Toddler Foam Block Area: A safe and fun space for the youngest visitors.
- Museum Cafe and Gift Shop: Convenient amenities for families to relax and enjoy their visit.
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History of AMOS
The Asheville Museum of Science began its journey as the Burnham S. Colburn Memorial Museum, founded by Burnham Standish Colburn, an engineer and bank president. Originally located on Coxe Avenue, the museum showcased Colburn's extensive mineral collection. Over the years, AMOS evolved and relocated several times, finally settling in its current downtown Asheville location in 2016. Today, it is a significant educational resource in the community, continuing to inspire and educate visitors of all ages.
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Exhibits and Attractions
AMOS is home to a variety of exhibits that cater to science lovers of all ages:
- Colburn Hall of Minerals: This exhibit features a vast collection of local minerals and gemstones. Kids can participate in a scavenger hunt, making the learning experience fun and interactive.
- Interactive Science Exhibits: These include fossils, a large climbing structure that simulates the Southern Appalachian Forest, a terra box filled with sand, weather exhibits, solar system activities, and a splash zone. The climbing structure even has a giant bird's nest at the top, adding to the adventure.
- STEM Lab: This area hosts educational programs, including the Little Explorer's Club, where kids can engage in science experiments and activities to foster a love for STEM subjects.
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Special Features
Dinosaur Cast
One of the standout attractions at the Asheville Museum of Science is the Dinosaur Cast. This realistic dinosaur display captivates both kids and adults alike. The lifelike representation of these ancient creatures provides a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric world. Children can marvel at the size and structure of the dinosaur, sparking their imagination and curiosity about the history of life on Earth. It's an excellent way to introduce young minds to paleontology and the wonders of natural history.
Climbing Structure
The Climbing Structure at AMOS is a favorite among young visitors. This feature simulates the canopy of the Southern Appalachian Forest, offering an adventurous and educational experience. Kids can climb through various levels, exploring different aspects of the forest ecosystem. At the top, they'll find a large bird's nest, adding an extra layer of excitement to their climb. This structure provides physical activity and teaches children about the flora and fauna of the Southern Appalachian region, making it a perfect blend of fun and learning.
Weather Exhibits
The Weather Exhibits at AMOS are designed to be both interactive and educational. These displays teach kids about weather patterns, such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Children can engage in hands-on activities demonstrating how weather systems work and how different factors influence the climate. Additionally, the solar system activities within this section allow kids to explore the planets and other celestial bodies, broadening their understanding of space and astronomy. These exhibits make complex scientific concepts accessible and enjoyable for young learners.
Water Exhibit
The Water Exhibit is another highlight that promises endless fun and learning opportunities. This area features a water play zone where kids can splash and experiment with water dynamics. Through interactive activities, children learn about the properties of water, such as buoyancy, flow, and pressure. They can build dams, create water currents, and observe the effects of their actions in real time. This exhibit provides a refreshing break from other activities and instills a deeper appreciation for the science behind water and its vital role in our world.
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Educational Programs
AMOS offers a variety of educational programs designed to engage young minds:
- Science Camps and Workshops: These programs provide hands-on learning experiences in various scientific fields.
- Field Trips and School Group Visits: AMOS is a popular destination for school trips, offering tailored educational experiences.
- Little Explorer's Club: This club offers regular STEM activities and experiments for young children, fostering early interest in science.
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Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit AMOS with children is during weekdays, preferably in the morning when the museum is less crowded. Avoid Fridays if possible, as the museum is a popular destination for school field trips.
Recommended duration: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the exhibits fully.
Our Recap
The Asheville Museum of Science offers families and kids an engaging and educational experience. With its interactive exhibits, special features, and educational programs, AMOS is a must-visit destination in Asheville.
