Little bodies, big ideas
Play is everywhere! In this Hall young scientist build skills like asking questions, experimenting, taking risks, and sharing ideas with others. Each area is designed for children ages birth through 6 and their families to practice science skills. Explore water, enjoy an area just right for infants, climb high and more. Visit the Discovery Lab to participate in hands-on projects and explore themed boxes.
Note
Science Playground is often at capacity. Expect wait times.
Water area.
More than just splishing and splashing, this zone has chances to build with DUPLO, crank on water vortexes, and experiment with flow.
Animal Secrets.
Zany critters and elaborate details bring this wooded scene to life. Have fun stashing acorns away for the winter and playing in the deep dark cave. The dramatic fun continues when the costumes come out!
Climb high.
Get up high for a whole new perspective on Science Playground. With multiple entries, a variety of paths, and unique lookout, the climber offers endless possibilities.
Infant and crawlers zone.
Enjoy our infants-only area to connect with your baby. Pulling up, scooting around, and crawling about are all the rage in this enclosed space. Don’t miss the fish!
Explore Science Playground!
Climb High!
Move your body! Climbing to new places helps young scientists see and learn new things. Can you find your way to the top?
Make a splash!
Splash! Drip! Discover! Use tools to pour, measure and change the flow. Bring a change of clothes since splashing happens!
Start exploring the world!
These areas are designed just right for your youngest scientist to make their earliest discoveries.
Give your brain a workout
Bond and connect with your littlest scientist.
Become an Animal!
Scientists can dress up as animals and explore different habitats in Animal Secrets.
Discover the power of Science + Play!
Explore our weekly experiments and activities in the Discovery Lab.
Exclusive Member Hours
Join us for early museum access every Wednesday starting at 9am! OMSI members can enjoy extra time to explore Science Playground and Turbine Hall. We can’t wait to see you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We have answers! Explore frequently asked questions. For more information please contact us at Info@OMSI.edu or (503) 797-4000.
Science Playground is for children ages birth-6 and their families, and for school groups of preschool- and kindergarten-aged children.
We ask you to park your stroller right outside of Science Playground. If your child has medical need of the stroller, you are welcome to bring them inside the Playground in the stroller. Strollers are typically welcome in all other areas of the museum. Please connect with a staff member with other questions about strollers.
Science playground has many amenities available, including:
- Family and ADA accessible restrooms
- Quiet/nursing room
- Snack area
- Water fountains and bottle refilling stations
- Extra diapers and wipes
Please let a staff member know if you need additional support during your visit.
Pre-school and kindergarten age school groups are encouraged to make a reservation in Science Playground during the field trip booking process. Every member of the school group must be in Pre-school and/or kindergarten.
Science Playground is open every day that OMSI is open. Capacity is currently limited in Science Playground. Weekday afternoons are usually the quietest times to visit.
Children ages 7+ are welcome in with a family member 6 years old or younger.
Visiting Soon?
OMSI is committed to making science-fueled fun available for all in our community. We are proud to offer admission assistance, financial aid, and accessible services throughout the museum. Explore access resources and amenities for guests visiting the museum.
