Where Science and Family Fun Come to Life! Unforgettable Family Adventures Await at the Bell Museum in St. Paul!
About the Bell Museum
Address: 2088 Larpenteur Ave W, St Paul, MN 55113
The Bell Museum, Minnesota’s official natural history museum and planetarium, is an exciting family destination that offers a blend of hands-on learning, captivating exhibits, and stunning outdoor spaces—all on the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus. Established in 1872, it is also one of the oldest museums in the state, promising a rich and diverse experience for all visitors!
With its unique blend of interactive exhibits, hands-on experiences, and stunning outdoor spaces, the Bell Museum is an ideal spot for Minnesota families looking to explore science and nature in a fun and engaging way.
Whitney and Elizabeth MacMillan Planetarium
Step inside Bell Museum and embark on a journey through time and space. At the heart of the museum is the Whitney and Elizabeth MacMillan Planetarium. Here, families can explore the cosmos together. Whether it’s a special live presentation or one of the daily shows, the planetarium offers an immersive experience for all ages.
Past shows include Comets, Moons, and Asteroids Revealed, Minnesota Night Skies, and Secrets from a Forest. The shows are incredible but may include loud sounds and dim lighting. As such, they might not be suitable for some younger kids. Finally, some shows have an age minimum.
Bell Museum Galleries & Labs
Immerse yourself in the museum‘s well-curated galleries. There are several galleries in the museum, including its world-famous wildlife dioramas. These lifelike scenes of Minnesota’s diverse habitats allow visitors to imagine themselves walking through forests, wetlands, and prairies—all while learning about the region’s unique wildlife!
One of the museum’s highlights is the Touch & See Lab. This area is designed to engage all the senses. Here, kids can touch 10,000-year-old fossils and explore live plants and animals. Everyone can get hands-on with scientific tools like magnifying glasses and digital microscopes.
The Bell Museum also offers a green roof and observation deck. Both provide a peaceful retreat with native plants, geology gardens, and a solar station. The interactive setting allows kids and adults alike to learn about sustainability and the natural world. It’s the perfect way to end a fun day at the museum!
The Bell Museum also features a Solutions Studio, a pop-up workshop where creativity runs wild. For families visiting in the summer, don’t miss the museum’s seasonal programs, which bring science and nature to life. Summer and winter break camps are also available.
Bell Museum Highlights
- Audio tours are available (available in English, Spanish, Hmong, Somali, and English with audio descriptions)
- Multiple daily Planetarium shows
- Several current and upcoming exhibits
- Touch & See Lab
- Curiosity Shop featuring unique gifts and souvenirs
- Memberships are available
Know Before You Go Helpful info (hours, parking info, website, events, etc)
- Website
- Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Admission to the museum starts at $12 or $16 for a museum/planetarium combination ticket. Kids 0-2 are free. Tickets can be reserved online. (There is reduced admission for qualifying guests and waived admission for Indigenous peoples.)
- Parking is available in a paid lot; the daily rate is $6.
- Upcoming Events
- Accessibility Resources
- Summer Camps
Related Article: St Paul with Kids: 15+ Best Things to Do in St Paul, Minnesota
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
