Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a hands-on science paradise where kids can touch, explore, and experiment their way through learning. With interactive exhibits ranging from music and sound labs to a digital planetarium and dedicated discovery spaces for younger children, this museum turns STEM concepts into playful adventures that keep kids engaged for hours.

• ✓Otterbox Digital Dome Theater with immersive planetarium shows
• ✓Little Learners Lab designed specifically for children under 6
• ✓Music & Sound Lab where kids create and experiment with acoustics
• ✓Interactive energy and air pressure exhibits
• ✓Hands-on science demonstrations and live animal encounters

1. 1.Arrive right when they open at 9:00 AM on weekdays to beat school field trip groups that typically arrive mid-morning
2. 2.Check the planetarium show schedule online before your visit and plan your museum time around catching at least one show,they're included with admission
3. 3.Pack snacks and use the designated eating area, as the museum café options are limited and nearby restaurants require leaving the building
4. 4.Don't miss the Otterbox Digital Dome Theater,reserve your show time upon arrival as popular showtimes fill up quickly
5. 5.Plan for the Music & Sound Lab on the second floor where kids can create music and explore acoustics,it's often less crowded than main floor exhibits

Tuesday or Wednesday mornings right at opening (9:00 AM) offer the smallest crowds. Avoid weekday afternoons when school groups dominate, and Saturdays can get very busy by late morning. Summer weekday mornings are ideal for a more relaxed experience.

Admission is around $12-15 per person with discounts for members and multi-visit passes available. Free parking is available in the adjacent lot. The museum has a small café with limited options, so consider eating before or after your visit at nearby Old Town Fort Collins restaurants.

Open year-round with consistent hours except Mondays. Special holiday programming and themed events occur throughout the year, including Science on Tap for adults and seasonal camps during school breaks. Check their event calendar for traveling exhibits that rotate several times annually.

Walk to Old Town Fort Collins (5 minutes away) for family favorites like Moe's Original BBQ or The Rainbow Restaurant, both offering casual atmospheres and kid-friendly menus. Walnut Street has numerous options within a short stroll.