Step Into a World of Invention: Why Families Are Raving About The Bakken Museum!
Address: 3537 Zenith Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55416
About The Bakken Museum
For a hands-on, mind-expanding adventure for all ages, The Bakken Museum in Minneapolis is a must-visit for families. Nestled on the west shore of Lake Bde Maka Ska, this recently renovated museum offers a unique blend of science, technology, and history in one engaging experience, not to mention the beautiful, historic home that uniquely houses the museum! The Bakken Museum is uniquely designed to spark curiosity in kids of all ages. Whether your child loves electricity, storytelling, or other STEM topics, there’s something to explore around every corner.
Explore the Museum
This isn’t your typical science museum. The Bakken Museum brings innovation to life through several interactive exhibits that captivate both children and adults. Here are a few examples of their permanent exhibits:
- Electricity Party Exhibit is inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s famous experiments. This exhibit invites visitors of all ages to try out electric parlor tricks. It’s an engaging way to learn how curiosity has led to groundbreaking inventions (like electricity!).
- Spark Exhibit invites you and your kids to create music and decode secret messages. Additionally, you can explore the technology behind medical prosthetics in a hands-on, high-energy environment.
- Mary & Her Monster lets you step into the world of Mary Shelley. Beloved as the mother of science fiction, explore how Shelley’s legendary novel Frankenstein raised questions about the power and ethics of scientific discovery.
- Frankenstein’s Laboratory is a thrilling immersive theater experience inside the Mary & Her Monster exhibit. The experience brings Frankenstein’s monster to life, exploring the consequences of unchecked experimentation. (This experience may be frightening for some kids. Recommended for ages 9+.)
Explore the Gardens
After exploring the indoor exhibits, step outside for some fresh air. The museum’s gardens showcase the relationship between nature and science through informational cards. Paths crisscross the gardens, allowing you and your kids to see several varieties of plants, including those used for medicinal purposes!
Deep Roots: Plants as Medicine dives into the history of plant-based medicine across cultures. Kids can learn how natural remedies have evolved into modern medical treatments through this exhibit. It’s an excellent way for kids to connect with science beyond the lab.
Related Article: 13 Best Museums in the Twin Cities for Kids (Babies to Teens)
Museum Highlights
- 8 hands-on exhibits (indoor & outdoor)
- Exhibits are suitable for all ages but may be particularly well-suited for elementary-aged children and older.
- Summer camps and other events happen throughout the year.
- Memberships are available
- The Bakken Museum is always free for kids three and under, and they also offer limited-income admission to qualifying families.
Know Before You Go to The Bakken Museum
- Website
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
- Free parking is available in a small parking lot (off Zenith Avenue South) or on an adjacent street.
- Family-friendly pricing
- Upcoming Events
- Summer Camps
- Accessibility Resources
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.
