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Mornings can be a fun and busy time here at Discovery Museum! We may temporarily reach capacity as lunchtime approaches; afternoons are often a bit quieter than mornings.  Pay just $13 admission on weekday afternoons after 1:00pm (except for holidays and vacation weeks), now through June 13!

a big group of people pose for a photo, holding their arms out excitedly
Discovery Museum Awarded the Nation's Highest Museum Honor

This prestigious award honors institutions that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. We are deeply honored and very proud!

Read the announcement
a young boy pours water from one container to another
Free Friday Nights!

Visit the first Friday night of each month—every Friday night in summer!—with free admission 4:30 to 8:00pm. We gladly accept non-perishable food donations for local pantries.

a woman sits on the floor reading a picture book to children, using sign language
Especially for Me!

We offer special free admission hours for families with children with an ASD, hearing or vision loss, sensory sensitivities and more, because we want every child to be able to visit.

It's for me!
a parent and child play on a climbing net in on the ground in front of a beautiful elevated treehouse
Play and Explore in Discovery Woods

Our 550-square foot, fully accessible treehouse and surrounding nature playscape will get you playing outside—12 months a year!

Let's Explore
two children, an older girl and younger boy, play together at a tabletop pegboard
Play Matters

Great play is what every kid needs, and every kid deserves.

Learn why
a photo of the exterior of the Discovery Museum building
Science | Nature | Play

The Museum combines the best STEAM exhibits from our original two museums—for little kids, big kids, and adults—and much more!

See what's here

Play Matters

Our philosophy starts with the simple belief that kids are capable of incredible things. Our job is to nurture that ability; our goal is to support kids’ healthy development. Play is how kids learn—here, it is in both a STEAM-rich environment and inviting outdoor experience.

Our mission

Today’s Hours

9:00am to 4:30pm
Reservations no longer required

Plan Your Visit
Besssie's Closet is a free clothing store open to all.

Accepting donations through Sunday!

We are accepting donations through April 27 to stock our next Bessie's Closet, a free pop-up clothing store open to all May 2, 3, and 4! We also need volunteers to help sort, see link below.

Donated items should be: 
• CLEAN clothing and shoes of any size (kids sizes 6 - 14 are most needed)
• new or gently used (as in “Would I give this to a friend to wear?”)
• dropped off in the Discovery Museum lobby, 177 Main Street, Acton, MA

clock graphic with the title "Spring Weekday Afternoon Discount"

Visit for just $13 after 1pm on most weekday afternoons!

Now through June 13, visit the Museum after 1:00pm and pay just $13! Holidays and school vacation weeks excluded. 

Ways To Save
a cartoon dinosaur wears a party hat and stands under a banner that says, "Birthdays at Discovery Museum"

Host your party with us!

Birthday parties are back at Discovery Museum! Host your child's birthday party or other special event in the Museum and our newly renovated and expanded Community Building for a fun and memorable event! 

Learn more

Events & Programs

See
Calendar
tinytropolis

Tinytropolis: The Next 250 Years

Monday, April 21 - Sunday, April 27 | 10:00am to 2:00pm
Come visit the mini city with a big future! Join us as we design, build, and explore a mini city constructed completely out of cardboard and. . .

Latest News

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News
two young girls stand on a large rock
Grandparent Discoveries Blog

Camp Gigi: Changing with the Times

Cheryl Beaudoin
Welcome back! Thank you for your patience as I’ve been on a little hiatus to plan my daughter’s wedding. It was definitely all-consuming! I’d like to share how Camp Gigi evolved last summer. As those of you who have been following the blog know, I have been providing a “camp” experience for my two. . .

An Award-Winning Destination

a round gold medallion that says, "National Medal for Museum and Library Service"
Commonwealth Award
Wicked Local Readers Choice 2020
Boston Parents Paper 2024 Family Favorite
graphic for Best of Boston award