World-class traveling exhibits – on everything from prehistoric cave paintings to Mayan civilization – have always been a big part of the attraction at this stellar museum. The permanent collection is no less impressive, with massive dinosaur skeletons, mummies from ancient Egypt, rare gems (like a 2000-carat blue topaz) and interactive exhibits on earth's biosphere.
Kiddos love the hands-on learning in the chemistry, energy and other science exhibits. In addition to the IMAX theater, there are planetarium shows and a giant glass butterfly conservatory. Special exhibits, films, shows and the butterfly house add an additional $5 to $11 per ticket.
