The Discovery Museum in Reno is a perfect place for families to spend a day.

It is not just a museum to look at exhibits, but a place to learn by directly experiencing science and art.

There are exhibits and activities that both children and adults will find "fun," making it a place you want to visit again after your first time.

The official name of the museum is 'Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum,' but it is commonly referred to as the Discovery Museum.

It is located at 490 S. Center Street near downtown Reno and is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.

It is closed on Mondays, so be sure to check to avoid a wasted trip. Admission is $13 for adults, $12 for children (ages 1-17), $10 for seniors over 65, and free for infants under 1 year old. The prices are surprisingly affordable, making it a great place for family visits.

You can immediately see why it is popular by looking at the museum's signature exhibits. The most striking is the large structure called Cloud Climber, located in the center of the museum, where children can climb and explore as if they are riding on a giant cloud.

It is designed not just for play but also to promote physical activity and creativity, allowing parents to watch with peace of mind. Additionally, the Truckee Connects exhibit is themed around the Truckee River flowing through Reno, designed to teach about water flow, physics, and environmental conservation in a natural way.

A more educational exhibit is Inside Out: Anatomy of a Skeleton. This exhibit presents the human skeletal structure and bodily functions in a fun way, allowing children to understand anatomy by touching and observing rather than just learning it rigidly.

Then there is The Shop, a small workshop-like space where families can create something together using tools and materials. Finally, Spark!Lab Smithsonian is a special exhibit operated in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, where children can experience the processes of invention and innovation, developing their creative problem-solving skills.

In addition to the exhibits, there are various hands-on programs available.

There are age-appropriate workshops where children can directly experience science experiments, art activities, and engineering design. During vacation seasons, STEM camps are also held, which are popular among children as they focus on practical experiences rather than just theory.

The museum has a cafeteria and relaxation areas, making it comfortable to stay all day. There is also a dedicated play area for toddlers, so families with young children need not worry. However, weekends can get crowded, so if possible, visiting on weekday mornings is more relaxed.

The Discovery Museum in Reno is a family-friendly space where you can engage with science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) in a fun and natural way. It stimulates children's curiosity and fosters creativity while also providing adults with new perspectives. If you are planning a trip to Reno, I highly recommend spending at least a day here.