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.
November 2026
November is Native Peoples Month
Please Note: Activities switch weekly on Thursdays. Activities may change without notice.
Discover Lab Hours: Tue – Sun 10 am – 5 pm. Some exceptions apply please see weekly schedule for details.
Weekly Happenings: Dark Week! October 22-31 | Lamprey Week November 19 – 25
Storytimes: Wednesdays at 9:25 am + 11 am | Saturdays at 11 am
Tarantula Feeding: Fridays at 11 am
October 22 – 31
Activity Table: DARK WEEK!
Join us in a week of discovering animals that use light!
Schedule Update: The Discovery Lab will open at 10:30 am on Saturday, October 24 to accommodate the Curiosity Kids program, Sasquatch Science Team.
November 1 -11
Main Activity: Art with one shape: Ovoids
Secondary Activity: Basket Weaving
Free Play Table: City
November 12 – 18
Main Activity: Patterns using sound and sight
Secondary Activity: Learn to braid
Free Play Table: Dinosaurs
Schedule Update: The Discovery Lab will open at 10:30 am on Saturday, November 14 to accommodate the Curiosity Kids program, Sasquatch Science Team.
November 19 – 25
Main Activity: Lamprey Week!
Free Play Table: Fantasy
November 26 – December 2
Main Activity: Observe and draw
Secondary Activity: Spinning Tops
Free Play Table: Farm
Schedule Update: The Discovery Lab will open at 10:30 am on Saturday, November 28 to accommodate the Curiosity Kids program, Design and Discover.
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.
The lab is open from 10-4:45 every day unless reserved by school groups.
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.
*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.
The Discovery Lab is open to children ages birth-6 and their families.
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.
What’s On in the Discovery Lab?
Practice science process skills together! Experiments and activities change each week.