We’re so excited to experiment and create together!
Explore our resources for families to learn more about what to expect on the day of your Play Lab. Be sure to confirm your Play Lab day and time with your group organizer.
OMSI Play Labs explore early math and science concepts with children ages 0-6 years old and their families. Participating families are invited to visit the museum for the day, learn together in a Play Lab program, and take home an OMSI Family Membership to use in the future.
What’s Included
Play Lab Class: The Play Lab class is approximately 90 minutes long, from arrival to the end of the program. Each Play Lab focuses on a different science process and includes story time, a guided activity led by an OMSI science educator, snack, and hands-on science activities that families can do together.
General Admission: Families visiting the museum for a Play Lab are also welcome to explore the museum before or after their scheduled lab. There are many fun activities and exhibits to see, including Science Playground, a space specifically for children ages 6 and under. To learn more about current exhibits and shows, check out the What’s On Calendar. Whether you decide to stay or have to head home for the day, we hope you will join us for another Play Lab soon!
Family Memberships: Every family that participates in a Play Lab receives a free OMSI Family Membership! The membership includes unlimited museum general admission for two named adults and four children (ages 3-17). The membership is valid for one year and can be activated online or in person. Play Lab staff can register participants for memberships at the end of the Play Lab class.
What to Expect
When you arrive at OMSI, please enter through the Planetarium doors to check in for your Play Lab. Look for signs on the front plaza.
Play Labs programs are free for participating families and include General Admission and parking. No need to wait in line for a ticket- just check in with the Play Labs team! Play Labs staff will provide general admission wristbands and parking passes to you. We suggest arriving 15 minutes early to allow for time to get settled in!
Parking for families attending a Play Lab is free! Arrive early to check in and get a parking pass for your dashboard.
Play Labs are specifically designed for children ages 0-6 and their families. We love families learning together. Older siblings and other family members are welcome to stay and participate or explore the museum.
Check out out Exhibits + Labs for great places for older siblings to explore at OMSI!
Snack is served at the end of the Play Lab class. Snack options may include goldfish, granola bars, fruit snacks, and juice boxes. Allergy friendly options are available. Everyone is welcome to take a snack!
Every participating family will receive an OMSI Family Membership good for one year. OMSI staff will help families register for the membership at the end of the Play Labs class. Learn more about Membership.
We continually want to improve our programs. Participating families will be asked to complete an optional short survey. Please contact PlayLabs@OMSI.edu if you have additional comments or questions.
Helpful Links
Use these helpful links to explore other programs, exhibits, and membership options.