From Nature Walks to Virtual Reality: Discover the Magic of Blue Star Museums!

Looking to shake up your family's rainy day routine this summer? Is the base bowling alley getting a little repetitive? Why not switch things up and treat your family to a one-of-a-kind experience at a Blue Star Museum instead? Packed with interactive exhibits and endless opportunities for exploration, museums offer a unique and exciting experience for earthlings of all ages. Personally, I know how restless my little ones can get when they can't go outside or to the pool on a rainy day. Going to museums with hands-on activities helps keep them engaged and entertained — not to mention learning!

What's more, from May 18th to September 2nd, all active-duty military families (including Guard and Reserve) can visit one of more than 2,000 participating museums for free, thanks to Blue Star Families' partnership with the National Endowment of the Arts and the Department of Defense!

Check out this map for a participating Blue Star Museum in your area.

What are some of the things families can do at a Blue Star Museum? Here are a few of the fun experiences happening at Blue Star Museums around the country:

1. The Sacramento Children's Museum offers inclusive and sensory-friendly activities for all

   • If you're in or around Rancho Cordova, California, visit The Sacramento Children's Museum for a day of play! Featuring sensory-friendly activities and playdates for diverse families, this museum is a must-visit for anyone looking to let their imagination run wild. 

2. Take a family hike at Fontenelle Forest

   • Located in Bellevue, Nebraska, Fontenelle Forest aims to educate on the importance of environmental conservation while allowing everyone to explore the outdoors. In addition to a beautiful nature center and various activities, Fontenelle Forest also has multiple trails to hike. Check out their trail map and plan your next family hike!

3. Learn how science and nature work together at the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science

   • The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in Wilmington, Delaware, has something for the whole family! Children can enjoy exploring the dinosaur exhibit, participating in science experiments, and attending educational workshops. Adults will love the guided tours, lectures on natural history, and nature walks through the museum's outdoor gardens. With something for everyone, the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science is a must-visit for anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.

4. Go for a trolley ride at the Shore Line Trolley Museum

   • Take a trip to East Haven, Connecticut, and visit the historic Shore Line Trolley Museum! Check out its collection of street railway vehicles and the Branford Electric Railway. The museum even offers rides on its historic trolleys in July and August! If you're looking for a way to experience history in motion, this is the place for you!

5. Travel back in time at the 'Dinosaur Train' exhibit at The Magic House

   • In St. Louis, Missouri, The Magic House has a fun and engaging way to learn about dinosaurs with its fun Dinosaur Train exhibit! Kids (and adults!) can step back in time and explore the prehistoric world with interactive displays and hands-on activities based on the popular PBS KIDS TV series. Check out the interactive exhibits for a full day of fun!

6. Take flight at the 'A-10 Virtual Reality Experience' at Hill Aerospace Museum

   • If you've ever wondered what flying in an A-10 Warthog is like, now is the time to find out! The Hill Aerospace Museum in Roy, Utah, offers the whole family a chance to take flight and explore the area surrounding Hill Air Force Base with virtual reality! Though admission to the museum is free, tickets are required for the VR experience. Click here to check dates and ticket prices. 

7. Learn how to make homemade ice cream at the Log Cabin Village

   • Have you ever wondered what living in a village in frontier America was like? Check out the Log Cabin Village in Ft. Worth, Texas! Take a look inside real log cabins and experience living history. You can also view live cooking demonstrations AND take a class to learn how to make your very own homemade ice cream!

8. Discover your spirit of invention at Cade Museum

   • The Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention in Gainesville, Florida, is a unique and interactive museum celebrating creativity and innovation. Visitors can explore hands-on exhibits, participate in workshops, and learn about the history of invention and entrepreneurship. Check out their optical illusions exhibit if you're looking for a thrill!

9. Explore the history of the Yellowstone River Basin at the Yellowstone County Museum

   • The Yellowstone County Museum in Billings, Montana, offers a journey through the region's history and natural beauty. Learn about the geological formations, wildlife, and Native American cultures that have shaped this area.

10. Stay and paint at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art's campus

    • At the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, immerse yourself in the beauty showcasing modern art styles, including the works of Walter Anderson. While exploring the gorgeous city of Ocean City, Mississippi, you can even choose to unleash your inner artist and stay at the on-campus rental, The Nest, for additional fees! As part of your stay, they include a canvas, paint, and brushes, should you be inspired to paint.

Have you had any exciting experiences at Blue Star Museums? Please drop a comment below and share them with us!