Boston Museum of Science: What You Need to Know Before Visiting

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Boston, Massachusetts, is full of fantastic things to do, including many great museums for families to spend a fun-filled day. If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with kids, you can’t go wrong with the Boston Museum of Science.

The Museum of Science is a great place to visit for people of all ages. Children will love the interactive exhibits, while adults can enjoy the more educational displays.

There’s also a planetarium and 4-D theater on-site, which offer additional ways to learn about science and the universe.

This world-renowned museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the city of Boston. With exhibits on everything from nature to space travel, there’s something for everyone at the Museum of Science.

We’ll give you all the information you need to make the most out of your visits, such as admission prices, parking options, special exhibitions, and more.

Covid Rules for Visiting the Museum of Science

Updated August 30, 2022:

Face masks are recommended but no longer required inside the museum.

The vaccination requirement for all indoor spaces in Boston has been lifted. A Covid vaccination is no longer required for admission to the Boston Museum of Science.

For more information or to see if these requirements change in the future, see the Code of Conduct page before your visit.

Is the Boston Museum of Science Worth the Trip?

In short, yes! The science museum is a truly special place to visit. With exhibits and activities for kids of all ages, from toddlers to adults, you will want to go back again.

Whether your child likes animals, the human body, electricity, space, or anything related to science, they will surely have it at the Museum of Science. It is definitely worth a trip.

How Long Does it Take to Go Through the Museum?

Whether you only visit the exhibit halls, walk through a special exhibition, see a show, or visit the planetarium, plan to spend a minimum of 3-4 hours. There is much to do and see, so you get your money’s worth.

Museum Hours

The museum is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. At this time, tickets for non-members need to be purchased in advance.

To buy tickets, visit mos.org or call 617-723-2500.

What Does Admission to the Boston Museum of Science Cost?

Exhibit Halls Admission

At this time, all visitors must reserve a timed ticket including children under 3. Museum members do not have to reserve a ticket.

• Adult – $29
• Child (3-11) – $24
• Child (Under 3) – Free
• Senior (60+) – $25
• Members, all ages – Free

Boston Museum of Science Basic Membership Prices

• Free Exhibit Halls admission for one year. Also included are two Omni, two Planetarium, and two Exhibit Halls Guest Passes per year.
• Basic, 2 people – $100.00 – Free Exhibit Halls Admission for 2 people every visit.
• Basic, 5 people – $150.00 – Free Exhibit Halls Admission for 5 people every visit.
• Basic, 8 people – $200.00 – Free Exhibit Halls Admission for 8 people every visit.

Boston Museum of Science Premier Membership Prices

• Free Exhibit Halls admission for one year. Also included are four Omni, four Planetarium, and four Exhibit Halls Guest Passes per year. Also included are two hours of free parking and priority treatment for select member events.
• Premier, 2 people – $135.00 – Free Exhibit Halls Admission for 2 people every visit.
• Premier, 5 people – $185.00 – Free Exhibit Halls Admission for 5 people every visit.
• Premier, 8 people – $235.00 – Free Exhibit Halls Admission for 8 people every visit.

Museum of Science Discounts

If you’re looking to save a little money, there are several ways to get discounted admission to the museum.

The Museum offers limited free or discounted admissions, which include Exhibit Hall, passes to the following:

• Recipients of MA WIC / EBT/ Healthcare Connector Card
• US Active Duty Military
• Corporate Membership (with corporate ID)
• Library Passes
• Wonderfund
• Go City Boston: Explorer Pass
• Boston CityPASS

Museum of Science reciprocity

The Museum participates in reciprocal programs of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC).

Museum members can use their membership cards for free or discounted admission to nearly 500 zoos, aquariums, and science centers worldwide. 

This means that your membership is an even better deal! Find out more about the Reciprocal Admission program. The program may also grant you discounted admission to the Museum of Science if you have a membership to another museum, zoo, or science center participating in the Reciprocal Admission program.

Permanent Exhibits to Explore

The Museum of Science’s popular permanent exhibits include The Hall of Human Life, New England Habitats, Cosmic Light, To the Moon, and so much more! Find out about all of their permanent and featured exhibits.

Planetarium, IMAX, and 4-D Theaters

In addition to the exhibits, the Boston Museum of Science offers a range of shows in its planetarium and theaters.

To see what is showing in any of these theaters, check the schedule online for IMAX,  4-D films, or the Planetarium.

At this time, spots might fill up fast due to limited seating to allow for social distancing, so plan to purchase tickets early.

Can You Bring Food to the Boston Museum of Science?

Yes. The museum has a full cafeteria to purchase food and drinks, but if you would prefer to bring your own food, you aren’t allowed to bring it inside, but you can eat it at the picnic tables in the back of the museum or outside in the front plaza.

Does the Museum Have Strollers, Wheelchairs, and Scooters?

If you need a stroller, scooter, or wheelchair, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit the information desk for availability.

Lockers and Storage

You may purchase a locker at the museum to keep jackets, purses, souvenirs, and whatever else you don’t feel like carrying around.

Parking and Transportation

The Museum of Science has a parking garage, which costs $20 daily. If you’re not driving, there are several other transportation options available.

The museum is next to the Charles River, so you can walk or bike there.

There’s also a bus stop right in front of the museum and an MBTA stop nearby. If you are taking the T, get off at the Science Park/West End station, about a five-minute walk to the museum.

Gift Shop

Finally, at the end of your visit to the museum, be sure to check out their gift shop for a fun and educational science-themed souvenir. You can buy everything from books and toys to T-shirts and hats. There’s also a wide variety of educational games and puzzles available.

More Things to Do with Kids in Boston

We hope this information has helped you plan your visit to the Boston Museum of Science. Check out the museum’s website for more information on exhibits, special events, and parking.

Most of all, have fun!

With all the things to do in Boston with kids, you can fill your time in the city with loads of fun and entertaining activities. We hope that you enjoy our picks.

You might also be interested in:

• 25+ Fun-Filled Adventures in Boston for Families
• The 7 Best Kid-Friendly Museums in Boston
• What You Need to Know Before Your First Red Sox Game at Fenway Park
• Tips for Bringing Kids to Fenway Park
• The Kids Concourse at Fenway

If you find yourself traveling outside of Boston, check out these things to do with kids in Western Mass and the Berkshires.

If you’re visiting Massachusetts in the fall, you might enjoy a trip to Salem or some apple picking.