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Discovery Lab

Designed for Ages 0 - 6
The Museum
Free with Museum Admission

Build. Explore. Create. Play!

The youngest scientists are making the biggest discoveries! Join us for frequently-changing hands-on activities that engage your child’s senses, build their early science skills, and grow the connections in their brain and with you!

The discovery lab is designed for children ages birth through 6 and their families.

UPDATE

The Discovery Lab is located inside of Science Playground which is often at capacity. Expect wait times.

April 2026

Please Note: Activities switch weekly on Thursdays. Activities may change without notice.
Discover Lab Hours: 10 am – 5 pm. Some exceptions apply please see weekly schedule for details.

March 26 – April 1
Activity Table: Observe and Draw
Sensory Table: Sustainable Farming

Children doing a hands on activity in OMSI's Discovery Lab.

April 2 – 8
Activity Table: Vertical Farming
Sensory Table: Vintage Toys

Schedule Update: The Discovery Lab will open at 10:30 am on Saturday, April 4 to accommodate the Curiosity Kids program.

Toddlers and parents playing in OMSI's Science Playground.

April 9 -15
Activity Table: What do you see?
Sensory Table: Materials Exploration

A young child with curly hair holds a seashell, wearing a blue shirt,, exploring OMSI's Science Playground.

April 16 – 22
Activity Table: Camouflage
Sensory Table: Sustainable Farming

Schedule Update: The Discovery Lab will open at 10:30 am on Saturday, April18 to accommodate the Curiosity Kids program.

April 23 – 29
Activity Table: Art and Poetry
Sensory Table: Bubbles

April 30 – May 6
Activity Table: Steam Featuring Suchitra Mattai
Sensory Table: Materials Exploration

Schedule Update: The Discovery Lab will open at 10:30 am on Saturday, May 2 to accommodate the Curiosity Kids program.

A student-made diagram of a cell using PlayDoh

Please note activities may change without notice. Please stop by the lab for the most up-to-date information on Science Playground and Discovery Lab activities.

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.

Is this lab always open?

The lab is open from 10-4:45 every day unless reserved by school groups.

How do I know what activities are in the lab?

Our scientists change the activities often to keep things exciting! Stop by the Lab to see this week’s activities. Please note that activities may change without notice.  

Will there be someone in the lab to help me?

*There is always at least one staff member in Science Playground or the Discovery Lab. We are happy to help with anything you might need.

Who can explore and play in the Discovery Lab?

The Discovery Lab is open to children ages birth-6 and their families.N

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.

Two students running chemistry experiments.

What’s On in the Discovery Lab?

Practice science process skills together! Experiments and activities change each week.

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