Step outside and explore science in the open air. The Outdoor Explorium invites visitors of all ages to connect with the natural world through hands-on exploration and unstructured play. With open-ended features like climbable rocks, native plantings, and a water table, as well as large-scale interactive exhibits, this space sparks curiosity, creativity, and a sense of adventure. This space encourages movement, discovery, and connection to the environment—whether you're digging, building, climbing, or simply observing the world around you.
Pollinator Garden
Supported by NDSU Extension Master Gardeners and Burleigh County Soil Conservation
Our pollinator garden showcases native North Dakota plants that support bees, butterflies, birds, and other essential pollinators. It’s more than a pretty space—it’s a living exhibit that highlights the critical role of biodiversity and conservation. Visitors can spot pollinators in action, learn about the unique and beautiful plants that attract them, and explore simple ways to support pollinators.
Mix & Mess Play Center
This sensory-rich play center invites visitors to scoop, build, observe, and explore. Whether they're observing water flow, experimenting with buoyancy, or mixing mud, visitors engage in open-ended play that builds curiosity, coordination, and creativity. It's a little messy and a lot of fun!
Excavator
Sponsored by Bobcat Company
This exhibit lets visitors explore the basics of hydraulics and machine movement by turning four wheels to control different parts of an excavation arm. By experimenting with each control, visitors can discover how the parts work together to create smooth, coordinated motion. Whether they're trying to scoop and drop material or simply test how far each piece can move, they’re building a deeper understanding of force, motion, and hydraulics—all through play.
