Port Discovery Children’s Museum will open two new interactive exhibits Friday, giving kids space to explore STEM learning and recharge their batteries in a restful environment.
The exhibits will cover a total of more than 4,000 square feet on the museum’s third floor and will mark the first phase of Port Discovery’s $17.5-million, multi-year renovation.
“These openings mark an important milestone in Port Discovery’s journey of growth and renewal,” said Carter Arnot Polakoff, the museum’s president and CEO, in a statement. “Our vision is to create a museum that adapts to the needs of today’s families—offering joyful, interactive learning experiences that spark creativity and curiosity while ensuring every child feels welcome. Galactic Builders and SKIES are the first of many steps toward a reimagined Port Discovery that will continue to serve Baltimore and beyond for generations to come.”
The “Galactic Builders” exhibit will be space-themed and will encourage children to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through play and experimentation.
In the 1,788-square-foot area, kids will be able to learn about gravity, thrust and aerodynamics by building and launching their own miniature rockets; design and test rovers as they navigate planetary terrains; test parachute designs; and explore parts of a system.
The other exhibit, “SKIES,” will offer a quieter and calmer environment for children to play, rest, and explore. The 2,250-square-foot area is “inspired by the beauty of the sky’s daily journey from sunrise to sunset.”
“SKIES” will feature “soft colors, gentle motion, and nature inspired design.” Activities in this area are meant to promote “mindfulness, focus, cooperation, and self-soothing.”
As part of the exhibit, children will be able to build literacy skills in cozy, book-filled reading nooks; strengthen their fine motor skills by design, constructing, and playing in pillow and blanket forts; and rest in a low-stimulation environment.
Port Discovery plans to roll out other exhibits and redesigned spaces in later phases of its expansion.
“Galactic Builders” and “SKIES” are funded by the Harvey M. Meyerhoff Fund, the Ensign C. Markland Kelly, Jr. Memorial Foundation, The Kahlert Foundation, and the Samuel G. & Margaret A. Gorn Foundation.
