SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity
About
The SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity (formerly the Discovery Museum) is Sacramento's premier hands-on science center where kids can explore hundreds of interactive exhibits spanning science, technology, art, and nature. With a planetarium, outdoor nature center, and engaging stations that encourage creative problem-solving, this museum turns learning into an exciting adventure that will keep children engaged for hours.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive planetarium with kid-friendly shows about space and astronomy
- ✓Hands-on electricity and magnetism exhibits where kids create circuits and experiments
- ✓Curiosity Cove designed specifically for children under 6 with age-appropriate activities
- ✓Nature center with live animals and outdoor exploration areas
- ✓Creative arts studio where kids can tinker, build, and make their own creations
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when doors open at 10 AM to beat school groups and enjoy the most popular exhibits with minimal wait times
- 2.Don't miss the outdoor learning garden and nature play area,many families overlook this space but it's perfect for burning energy between indoor exhibits
- 3.Check the planetarium show schedule when you arrive and reserve your preferred time immediately, as shows fill up quickly on weekends
- 4.Pack a lunch to enjoy in the picnic area outside, as food options inside are limited to vending machines and snacks
- 5.Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers,kids will be constantly moving and some areas can be warmer than others
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday) are ideal for avoiding crowds and school field trips. Saturday and Sunday mornings right at opening are your best bet for weekends, before the afternoon rush hits.
What to Know
General admission is approximately $12-15 per person with discounts for children under 3. Parking is available in the adjacent lot with reasonable rates. The museum is fully accessible and stroller-friendly, though you may want to check strollers during busy times.
Seasonal Notes
The museum is open year-round with special programs during summer break and holiday-themed activities in December. Note that the museum is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance and typically closes earlier on weekdays (4 PM) than weekends (5 PM on Saturday and Sunday).
Nearby Eats
Old Sacramento is just a short walk away with numerous family-friendly options including Joe's Crab Shack (with outdoor seating overlooking the river) and Fanny Ann's Saloon which offers kid-friendly burgers and a casual atmosphere. The nearby Golden 1 Center area also has several quick-serve options perfect for hungry kids.
More Activities Near Sacramento
California State Railroad Museum
The California State Railroad Museum is a train-loving kid's paradise, featuring 21 beautifully restored locomotives and railroad cars that children can actually climb aboard and explore. With interactive exhibits, train simulators, and the chance to walk through historic sleeping cars, dining cars, and even a post office car, this museum brings railroad history to life in a way that captivates even the youngest visitors.
Sacramento History Museum
Step back in time at the Sacramento History Museum, where kids can experience the excitement of California's Gold Rush era through hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. Located in Old Sacramento's historic district, this engaging museum brings frontier history to life with period artifacts, recreated scenes, and activities that let children pan for gold and explore what life was like for early Sacramento settlers.
State Indian Museum State Historic Park
The State Indian Museum State Historic Park offers families an enriching journey through California's Native American heritage with hands-on exhibits that bring history to life. Kids can explore traditional artifacts, baskets, and interactive displays that teach about the diverse indigenous cultures of California in an engaging, age-appropriate way. The museum's manageable size makes it perfect for young attention spans while still providing meaningful educational content.
American River Parkway
The American River Parkway offers 23 miles of outdoor adventure perfect for active families seeking nature experiences right in Sacramento. With multiple access points along the river, families can choose their own adventure,from easy paved bike paths for little ones learning to ride, to refreshing swimming holes for hot summer days, to shaded picnic spots ideal for family gatherings.