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Museum of Discovery: Little Rock's STEM Hub

Explore interactive science exhibits, a live animal collection, and a world-record Tesla coil at Little Rock's Museum of Discovery!

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The Museum of Discovery in downtown Little Rock is a leading science and technology center. It offers interactive exhibits, a live animal collection, and a Guinness World Record musical bi-polar Tesla coil, making it a fun and educational destination for all ages.

A brief summary to Museum of Discovery

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's daily schedule for science shows and Tesla coil demonstrations.
  • Visit during weekdays from 1-5 p.m. for smaller crowds.
  • If you have a membership at another children's museum, ask about reciprocal admission discounts.
  • Bring your parking ticket to the museum for validation and a discounted rate at the Riverwalk Parking Garage.
  • The museum is closed on Mondays when school is in session.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the River Market area, the Museum of Discovery is easily accessible on foot. Head east on President Clinton Avenue. The museum will be on your right, a short walk from the heart of the River Market.

  • Public Transport

    Rock Region METRO provides bus service to the River Market District. From the Markham St & Fountain Ave stop, the museum is a short walk away. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Driving

    The Museum of Discovery is located at 500 President Clinton Ave in the River Market District. From I-30, take the 6th Street exit and head east. Turn left onto President Clinton Avenue. Parking is available in the River Market Parking Deck across the street from the museum. Metered street parking is also available. The River Market Parking Deck costs $2 for three hours with museum validation.

Unlock the Best of Museum of Discovery

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Discover more about Museum of Discovery

The Museum of Discovery, located in the River Market District of downtown Little Rock, is Arkansas's premier science and technology center. Originally founded in 1927 as the Arkansas Museum of Natural History and Antiquities, the museum has evolved into a hands-on STEM-focused institution with a mission to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through dynamic, interactive experiences. The museum boasts a wide array of exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. Highlights include the Guinness World Record musical bi-polar Tesla coil, which emits 200,000 volts of electricity as it plays music, and the Tornado Alley Theater, which simulates the experience of being in a tornado. The museum also features a live animal collection and various interactive science demonstrations. Exhibits are divided into different sections to cater to varied interests. Small Fry Fish Camp is designed for children 6 and under, while Curiosity Spot inspires creativity with a mirrored kaleidoscope tunnel and instrument-making activities. Other notable exhibits include the PPG STEAM Studio, which offers tinkering activities, and the Sensory Cove, a calming space for visitors with sensory processing needs. The museum's history is as engaging as its exhibits. Founded by Bernie Babcock to counter criticisms of Arkansas's cultural scene, the museum has grown from a small storefront to a major educational institution. It has received accreditation from the American Association of Museums and Smithsonian affiliation, solidifying its national profile.

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