The Museum of Life and Science is an integral part of
Durham, and not only because its dinosaurs have become a familiar site for
walkers along the Ellerbe Creek Trail. According to the Triangle Business Journal, the Museum was the 10th most
visited tourist destination in North Carolina last year. So when they announce
a $3.9 million expansion, it’s big news for both visitors and Durham.
Showing posts with label Museum of Life and Science. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Museum of Life and Science. Show all posts
Friday, February 28, 2014
Museum of Life and Science Announces Expansion
The Museum of Life and Science is an integral part of
Durham, and not only because its dinosaurs have become a familiar site for
walkers along the Ellerbe Creek Trail. According to the Triangle Business Journal, the Museum was the 10th most
visited tourist destination in North Carolina last year. So when they announce
a $3.9 million expansion, it’s big news for both visitors and Durham.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Museum of Life + Science to Celebrate Motion/Inertia With WHEELS May 21-26
Birthdays, anniversaries and weddings are the usual kinds of events that are celebrated. But in the third week of May, Durham will celebrate inertia.
The Museum of Life and Science is on a roll with WHEELS, a week long celebration of inertia and motion Tuesday-Sunday, May 21-26. Guests will get a hands-on look at the science behind things that roll and spin while climbing aboard a giant excavator or fire truck, constructing a colossal paper roller coaster, checking out the Museum’s Mercury Redstone Rocket engine and more.
“The hands-on activities, demos and displays will have something for everyone!” remarked Nancy Dragotta-Muhl, Coordinator for Community Programs and Educational Resource. “Guests will be able explore several science process skills such as patterns, ratio and proportion, force, simple machines and energy transfer.”
All family friendly activities and vendors are free with admission for the entire week long event. Guests can enjoy a wide range of daily activities including:
The Museum of Life and Science is on a roll with WHEELS, a week long celebration of inertia and motion Tuesday-Sunday, May 21-26. Guests will get a hands-on look at the science behind things that roll and spin while climbing aboard a giant excavator or fire truck, constructing a colossal paper roller coaster, checking out the Museum’s Mercury Redstone Rocket engine and more.“The hands-on activities, demos and displays will have something for everyone!” remarked Nancy Dragotta-Muhl, Coordinator for Community Programs and Educational Resource. “Guests will be able explore several science process skills such as patterns, ratio and proportion, force, simple machines and energy transfer.”
All family friendly activities and vendors are free with admission for the entire week long event. Guests can enjoy a wide range of daily activities including:
- Exploring the technology behind energy efficient vehicles such as Organic Transport’s Velomobiles and the Nissan LEAF.
- Meeting members of the City of Durham Fire Department and getting a close-up look at their equipment
- Racing slot cars and creating custom race track configurations
- Working with designer Andrew Gatt to help the Museum build the world’s largest paper roller coaster
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Museum of Life and Science Celebrates Bear Week
Visitors don't have to grin and bear it, instead they can enjoy Bear Week in Durham.
The Museum of Life and Science, home to four rescued American Black Bears, will celebrate National Bear Awareness Week with special free programming highlighting the care, training and behavior of the Museum’s Black Bears and the important role the Museum plays in rescue efforts from Sunday, May 12 through Saturday, May 18, 2013.
Each year the Museum of Life and Science offers public programs as part of National Bear Awareness Week which dispels misconceptions and educates the public about American Black Bears, as well as seven additional bear species living throughout the world.
The Museum plays an instrumental role in rescue efforts, hosting four American Black Bears in the Museum’s Explore the Wild exhibit that would not have survived in the wild. The exhibit features a natural setting, with a waterfall, rock formations and live trees for climbing. Visitors are invited to get an up- close look using two remote-controlled zoom cameras.
Meet Our Bears
Mimi – Born in 2004, Mimi was confiscated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in Alabama and transferred to Appalachian Bear Rescue where she was deemed too friendly to be rehabilitated and re-released into the wild. Ariving at the Museum on April 10, 2006, Mimi is known by animal keepers and guests for her apparent love of the water and on a hot summer day can often be found swimming through the pool in the bear exhibit.
Virginia – Born in 2005 and orphaned as a cub, Virginia was hand fed by an individual who rescued her and determined by Virginia Wildlife officials to be too tame to safely release into the wild. She arrived at the Museum on June 2, 2005. The white “V” shaped blaze on her chest helps guest to identify her when amidst the other three bears at the Museum’s exhibit and she is often the first bear in the pool when watermelons are tossed in as treats.
Gus – Born in 2006, Gus was found by a fisherman along a trail at Briery Branch Lake and relocated to the Museum by Virginia Wildlife officials who determined he was not a good candidate for release. Gus is the largest and tallest of the bears and is regularly seen next to the pool seemingly waiting for Virginia to come out with a watermelon for him to “steal.”
Yona – Born in 2009, Yona was relocated from the Appalachian Bear Rescue after it was discovered she enjoyed the companionship of people a little too much for release back into the wild. Yona arrived at the Museum on January 15, 2010 and is now the youngest and smallest bear here. In keeping with the behavior of younger bears, Yona can often be spotted chasing the other bears around the exhibit.
The Museum of Life and Science, home to four rescued American Black Bears, will celebrate National Bear Awareness Week with special free programming highlighting the care, training and behavior of the Museum’s Black Bears and the important role the Museum plays in rescue efforts from Sunday, May 12 through Saturday, May 18, 2013. Each year the Museum of Life and Science offers public programs as part of National Bear Awareness Week which dispels misconceptions and educates the public about American Black Bears, as well as seven additional bear species living throughout the world.
The Museum plays an instrumental role in rescue efforts, hosting four American Black Bears in the Museum’s Explore the Wild exhibit that would not have survived in the wild. The exhibit features a natural setting, with a waterfall, rock formations and live trees for climbing. Visitors are invited to get an up- close look using two remote-controlled zoom cameras.
Meet Our Bears
Mimi – Born in 2004, Mimi was confiscated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in Alabama and transferred to Appalachian Bear Rescue where she was deemed too friendly to be rehabilitated and re-released into the wild. Ariving at the Museum on April 10, 2006, Mimi is known by animal keepers and guests for her apparent love of the water and on a hot summer day can often be found swimming through the pool in the bear exhibit.
Virginia – Born in 2005 and orphaned as a cub, Virginia was hand fed by an individual who rescued her and determined by Virginia Wildlife officials to be too tame to safely release into the wild. She arrived at the Museum on June 2, 2005. The white “V” shaped blaze on her chest helps guest to identify her when amidst the other three bears at the Museum’s exhibit and she is often the first bear in the pool when watermelons are tossed in as treats.
Gus – Born in 2006, Gus was found by a fisherman along a trail at Briery Branch Lake and relocated to the Museum by Virginia Wildlife officials who determined he was not a good candidate for release. Gus is the largest and tallest of the bears and is regularly seen next to the pool seemingly waiting for Virginia to come out with a watermelon for him to “steal.”
Yona – Born in 2009, Yona was relocated from the Appalachian Bear Rescue after it was discovered she enjoyed the companionship of people a little too much for release back into the wild. Yona arrived at the Museum on January 15, 2010 and is now the youngest and smallest bear here. In keeping with the behavior of younger bears, Yona can often be spotted chasing the other bears around the exhibit.
For more great things to do and see in Durham, visit this site.
Monday, April 15, 2013
The Shark Tooth Hunt Is On Beginning Saturday, April 20
Ever wanted to dig up shark teeth? In Durham? It possible now, and it's about to get easier.
The Museum of Life and Science, home of the Triangle’s foremost Dinosaur Trail and Fossil Dig Site, announces the arrival of 300 tons of fresh fossil material to refresh its popular Dig Site. PotashCorp-Aurora, Norfolk Southern Railway Company and the City of Durham are helping provide tons of fossil hunting fun when they come together in a huge “bucket brigade” to transport “fresh” fossil dirt for a spring refresh of the Museum’s Fossil Dig Site, a key component of the Museum’s Dinosaur Trail.
The Museum’s Dinosaur Trail and Fossil Dig Site educates visitors about paleontology—the study of prehistoric life forms on Earth through the examination of fossils and interactive presentations. Teeming with shark teeth, dolphin and whale bones, fish vertebrae, shells, coral and even crocodile and turtle fossils, the Museum’s dig site is equipped with digging tools and fossil identification charts for visitors to find and take home real fossil treasures from 5 to 20 million years old.
Special Event Kickoff Megalodon Shark Tooth Hunt: April 20-21; 26-27 and May 5-6
Opening to the public Saturday, April 20 and for three weekends through May 5, fossil hunters at the Museum’s site can find special golden-colored “treasure teeth” – that’s the ticket to win one of several colossal megalodon teeth.
Each megalodon tooth is over 4 inches in length and belonged to megalodon sharks that were themselves about 40 feet long weighing as much as 80 tons each, three times as big as today’s biggest great white shark and comparative in size to a modern-day school bus.
Volunteers from the North Carolina Fossil Club will be on hand each weekend to help identify fossils found at the dig site and help you learn more about fossil collecting.
Megalodon Shark Background
The Megalodon was the biggest prehistoric shark that ever lived and the biggest predatory marine creature in the history of the planet, outweighing today’s fierce Great White Sharks.
Megalodon teeth have been found all over the world, from antiquity to modern times. Millions of years ago, here in North Carolina, shallow seas teeming with life covered its coastal plain where these sharks swam and hunted. Since sharks constantly replace their teeth, producing thousands in a lifetime, as they grew, fed or fought, their shed teeth accumulated on the sea floor.
“Bucket Brigade” Fossil Transport — Aurora to Durham
At PotashCorp in Aurora NC, phosphate is mined to provide nutrients to plants and animals for fertilizer or feed. When mining for phosphate, they dig through a layer of fossil-containing material. This “trash” contains a rich amount of “treasure” for fossil hunters. The most efficient way to move this much material to Durham is by rail and Norfolk Southern Railway Company generously provided three train cars to transport the material along a 130-mile journey from Aurora to Durham. The City of Durham provided the final delivery leg, using large dump trucks to haul the material to the Museum campus.
The Shark Tooth Hunt paleontological adventure is only at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham – a chance to hunt the best fossil material with the added thrill of a chance to acquire a fossil hunter’s dream – a gigantic megalodon tooth from one of the most fearsome predators to have ever lived! The Megalodon Tooth Hunt and all fossil hunting at the Dig Site are free with admission.
For more information on Durham, visit online
The Museum of Life and Science, home of the Triangle’s foremost Dinosaur Trail and Fossil Dig Site, announces the arrival of 300 tons of fresh fossil material to refresh its popular Dig Site. PotashCorp-Aurora, Norfolk Southern Railway Company and the City of Durham are helping provide tons of fossil hunting fun when they come together in a huge “bucket brigade” to transport “fresh” fossil dirt for a spring refresh of the Museum’s Fossil Dig Site, a key component of the Museum’s Dinosaur Trail.The Museum’s Dinosaur Trail and Fossil Dig Site educates visitors about paleontology—the study of prehistoric life forms on Earth through the examination of fossils and interactive presentations. Teeming with shark teeth, dolphin and whale bones, fish vertebrae, shells, coral and even crocodile and turtle fossils, the Museum’s dig site is equipped with digging tools and fossil identification charts for visitors to find and take home real fossil treasures from 5 to 20 million years old.
Special Event Kickoff Megalodon Shark Tooth Hunt: April 20-21; 26-27 and May 5-6
Opening to the public Saturday, April 20 and for three weekends through May 5, fossil hunters at the Museum’s site can find special golden-colored “treasure teeth” – that’s the ticket to win one of several colossal megalodon teeth.
Each megalodon tooth is over 4 inches in length and belonged to megalodon sharks that were themselves about 40 feet long weighing as much as 80 tons each, three times as big as today’s biggest great white shark and comparative in size to a modern-day school bus.
Volunteers from the North Carolina Fossil Club will be on hand each weekend to help identify fossils found at the dig site and help you learn more about fossil collecting.
Megalodon Shark Background
The Megalodon was the biggest prehistoric shark that ever lived and the biggest predatory marine creature in the history of the planet, outweighing today’s fierce Great White Sharks.
Megalodon teeth have been found all over the world, from antiquity to modern times. Millions of years ago, here in North Carolina, shallow seas teeming with life covered its coastal plain where these sharks swam and hunted. Since sharks constantly replace their teeth, producing thousands in a lifetime, as they grew, fed or fought, their shed teeth accumulated on the sea floor.
“Bucket Brigade” Fossil Transport — Aurora to Durham
At PotashCorp in Aurora NC, phosphate is mined to provide nutrients to plants and animals for fertilizer or feed. When mining for phosphate, they dig through a layer of fossil-containing material. This “trash” contains a rich amount of “treasure” for fossil hunters. The most efficient way to move this much material to Durham is by rail and Norfolk Southern Railway Company generously provided three train cars to transport the material along a 130-mile journey from Aurora to Durham. The City of Durham provided the final delivery leg, using large dump trucks to haul the material to the Museum campus.
The Shark Tooth Hunt paleontological adventure is only at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham – a chance to hunt the best fossil material with the added thrill of a chance to acquire a fossil hunter’s dream – a gigantic megalodon tooth from one of the most fearsome predators to have ever lived! The Megalodon Tooth Hunt and all fossil hunting at the Dig Site are free with admission.
For more information on Durham, visit online
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Museum of Life and Science AfterHours Friday, April 12
52 years ago Yuri Gagarin became the first person in space. Quite a lot has changed since then. Man has walked on the moon, sent a rover to mars and viewed galaxies previously unseen. But of all the places in the world, only Durham has the Museum of Life and Science.
The Museum of Life and Science in Durham will celebrate the anniversary of man's first voyage into space with a world space party like only Museum After Hours can throw on Friday, April 12 from 6-9pm.
The Museum and guests will celebrate with 200 groups from across the globe with an evening full of space fun:
For more information on cool events in Durham, visit the Durham Event Calendar.
The Museum of Life and Science in Durham will celebrate the anniversary of man's first voyage into space with a world space party like only Museum After Hours can throw on Friday, April 12 from 6-9pm.The Museum and guests will celebrate with 200 groups from across the globe with an evening full of space fun:
- Travel through space in the Museum’s 12ft x 16ft Digital Starlab
- Help NFL Science Cheerleader Lindsay Yoder swab the Museum for microbes which may be sent up to the International Space Station
- Design and launch a rocket in the rocket building competition
- Land our Mars Rover using your XBOX Kinect skills
- Snap photos in the photo booth... on the moon!
- Cheer on Carolina Combat Robots and see some of the CCR fleet that compete on a national level
- Explore what happens to PEEPS in space
- Enjoy a cryodessicated (freeze-dried) ice cream sundae!
For more information on cool events in Durham, visit the Durham Event Calendar.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
April 13 Robot Rumble to Occur at Museum of Life and Science
Soon, the machines will overtake Durham. But in the end, that might not be such a bad thing.
In honor of National Robotics Week April 6-14, robots will take center stage at the Museum of Life and Science, Durham on Saturday April 13, 2013 from 10am-4pm when expert and amateur robotics specialists feature this fascinating branch of artificial intelligence—robotics—the intersection of computer science and engineering that creates devices that can move and react to sensory input. All Robot Rumble events and activities are free with Museum admission.
Now in its fifth year, Robot Rumble will feature experts, students and enthusiasts demonstrating a multitude of robotics designs and functions including Bot Hockey, Combat Robots, Underwater Robots, LEGO Robotics and others. Throughout the Museum, guests will enter arenas and view or test out a multitude of robotics activities including hands-on robot demonstrations, a vintage robot display, LEGO Sumo Competition, exhibitions that explore solar robots as well as underwater robotics at the Museum’s Sailboat Pond.
“The Museum is excited to showcase this growing branch of artificial intelligence to inspire students and enthusiasts of all ages to pursue careers or a love in robotics and other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields,” said Nancy Dragotta Muhl, Robot Rumble Event Coordinator.
The Battle Dome will feature robot arenas and obstacle courses including a nostalgic ‘blast from the past’ in ‘Rock Em Sock Em Robots’ competitions where visitors can fight it out in the combat ring. For non-fighting guests, a unique display of robot claws and arms will accompany a sentimental display of vintage toy and tactical robots from the late Professor Frank Cheney.
Triangle Sumo takes center stage for its LEGO Sumo competition with over 90 students competing through the day with LEGO bots and hands-on demonstrations. www.roboknights.net/trianglesumobots
IBM will be in the house with LEGO tournaments featuring the LEGO Mindstorm NXT kits that program the LEGO base bot to navigate an obstacle course. Additional workshops for younger guests include building a computer-controlled animal using LEGO WeDo robotics kits.
Carolina Combat Robots are back in action showcasing hands-on Bot Hockey play—small-scale battle bots with bug robots featuring teams of remote- controlled robots competing to score goals using street hockey pucks.
First Robotics, VEX Robotic and First LEGO League student-based enthusiasts will highlight their large-scale interactive bots demonstrating their latest in robotic design and competitive edge. Interactive and large-scale, these bots also include FTC Robotics showcasing student-designed sports model robotics competing head to head against other teams.
First-time exhibitors SeaPerch will amaze guests with their naval and submarine-style remotely operated robotics that encourages students to explore marine and ocean engineering principles outdoors at the Museum’s beautiful Sailboat Pond.
Robot Rumble Saturday April 13 Exhibitors List*
All Robot Rumble activities and event are free with Museum admission; Museum guests can visit the lobby for free registration and sign up opportunities.
Robot Rumble is a proud feature event of the NC Science Festival with special thanks to Time Warner Cable/Connect A Million Minds STEM education support
For more information on activities and things to do in Durham, visit online.
In honor of National Robotics Week April 6-14, robots will take center stage at the Museum of Life and Science, Durham on Saturday April 13, 2013 from 10am-4pm when expert and amateur robotics specialists feature this fascinating branch of artificial intelligence—robotics—the intersection of computer science and engineering that creates devices that can move and react to sensory input. All Robot Rumble events and activities are free with Museum admission.Now in its fifth year, Robot Rumble will feature experts, students and enthusiasts demonstrating a multitude of robotics designs and functions including Bot Hockey, Combat Robots, Underwater Robots, LEGO Robotics and others. Throughout the Museum, guests will enter arenas and view or test out a multitude of robotics activities including hands-on robot demonstrations, a vintage robot display, LEGO Sumo Competition, exhibitions that explore solar robots as well as underwater robotics at the Museum’s Sailboat Pond.
“The Museum is excited to showcase this growing branch of artificial intelligence to inspire students and enthusiasts of all ages to pursue careers or a love in robotics and other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields,” said Nancy Dragotta Muhl, Robot Rumble Event Coordinator.
The Battle Dome will feature robot arenas and obstacle courses including a nostalgic ‘blast from the past’ in ‘Rock Em Sock Em Robots’ competitions where visitors can fight it out in the combat ring. For non-fighting guests, a unique display of robot claws and arms will accompany a sentimental display of vintage toy and tactical robots from the late Professor Frank Cheney.
Triangle Sumo takes center stage for its LEGO Sumo competition with over 90 students competing through the day with LEGO bots and hands-on demonstrations. www.roboknights.net/trianglesumobots
IBM will be in the house with LEGO tournaments featuring the LEGO Mindstorm NXT kits that program the LEGO base bot to navigate an obstacle course. Additional workshops for younger guests include building a computer-controlled animal using LEGO WeDo robotics kits.
Carolina Combat Robots are back in action showcasing hands-on Bot Hockey play—small-scale battle bots with bug robots featuring teams of remote- controlled robots competing to score goals using street hockey pucks.
First Robotics, VEX Robotic and First LEGO League student-based enthusiasts will highlight their large-scale interactive bots demonstrating their latest in robotic design and competitive edge. Interactive and large-scale, these bots also include FTC Robotics showcasing student-designed sports model robotics competing head to head against other teams.
First-time exhibitors SeaPerch will amaze guests with their naval and submarine-style remotely operated robotics that encourages students to explore marine and ocean engineering principles outdoors at the Museum’s beautiful Sailboat Pond.
Robot Rumble Saturday April 13 Exhibitors List*
- NC FIRST Robotics High School Competition Teams, VEX and FIRST LEGO League including Orange HS 587 Hedgehogs and Efland Cheeks Robotics (multiple teams doing demos)
- Triangle Amateur Robotics – individual member robotic demos
- IBM – Lego and dancing robots
- Carolina Combat Robots “Bot” Hockey
- Hands On Robotic Demos: Sumo and Combat Arenas with Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots
- “Visions of the Future from the Past” vintage toy and tactical robots from the collection of late Professor Frank Cheney
- SeaPerch – marine and naval underwater robotics
All Robot Rumble activities and event are free with Museum admission; Museum guests can visit the lobby for free registration and sign up opportunities.
Robot Rumble is a proud feature event of the NC Science Festival with special thanks to Time Warner Cable/Connect A Million Minds STEM education support
For more information on activities and things to do in Durham, visit online.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Dinosaur Egg Hunt at Museum of Life + Science March 28-31
Bunnysaurus is coming to town and he’s only making one stop – Durham's Museum of Life and Science. Let's be honest, a dinosaur bunny is a great reason to visit Durham. That, and it's got a whole lot of interesting activity all over town. But the dino bunny is a big draw, undeniably.
Join The Museum of Life and Science for the Triangle’s only Jurassic-themed egg hunt Thursday, March 28 - Sunday, March 31 from 10 AM - 4 PM (Noon- 4 PM on Sunday). Children can:
Tickets are $5 and does not include general admission to the museum. General admission is required for non-members age 3 and over. Only those collecting eggs require Dino Egg Hunt tickets, other family members may accompany ticket holders with paid admission. There is limited availability and, pre-registration is recommended. For more information: Call Reservations at 919-220-5429 x313.
For more information about events in Durham, visit the Durham Event Calendar.
Join The Museum of Life and Science for the Triangle’s only Jurassic-themed egg hunt Thursday, March 28 - Sunday, March 31 from 10 AM - 4 PM (Noon- 4 PM on Sunday). Children can:- Search for five different dino eggs, each with a science prize or passes to the new Jurassic Park in 3D movie inside!
- Take photos inside a dinosaur nest
- See real fossils
- Make a dinosaur craft.
Tickets are $5 and does not include general admission to the museum. General admission is required for non-members age 3 and over. Only those collecting eggs require Dino Egg Hunt tickets, other family members may accompany ticket holders with paid admission. There is limited availability and, pre-registration is recommended. For more information: Call Reservations at 919-220-5429 x313.
For more information about events in Durham, visit the Durham Event Calendar.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Durham Museum Powers Up Electric Car Charging Stations
It's easy to be green in Durham! Drivers of electric vehicles will soon see the addition of a sixth public electric vehicle charging station in Durham.
Starting in January, electric car drivers are able to charge their vehicles for no cost at the Museum of Life and Science. DPR Construction and Starr Electric Company are donating their services and support for the installation of two GE electric vehicle charging stations in the Museum’s main parking lot. According to Tobin Freid, sustainability manager for Durham City and County, the Museum is an ideal location for charging stations due to its proximity to major thoroughfares including Interstate 85. Funding for this project is courtesy of a generous grant from Duke Energy Foundation.
“The Duke Energy Foundation has been a long-time Museum partner in educational and environmental initiatives, and we are pleased that this latest project will help Museum visitors,” said Indira Everett, District Manager. “Duke Energy is committed to providing public education and access to sustainable technologies, and this project with the Museum helps us reach a broad audience in a practical way.”
Need a charge? Click here to find public charging stations.
The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is considered a leader in sustainability efforts and in 2012, received the Green Plus Certification from the Institute of Sustainable Development. It is the first museum in North Carolina to be recognized as a Green Business by the NC Green Travel Initiative program. To learn more about the Museum, visit www.lifeandscience.org.
For more information about getting around Durham, see Durham's official visitor website.
Starting in January, electric car drivers are able to charge their vehicles for no cost at the Museum of Life and Science. DPR Construction and Starr Electric Company are donating their services and support for the installation of two GE electric vehicle charging stations in the Museum’s main parking lot. According to Tobin Freid, sustainability manager for Durham City and County, the Museum is an ideal location for charging stations due to its proximity to major thoroughfares including Interstate 85. Funding for this project is courtesy of a generous grant from Duke Energy Foundation.“The Duke Energy Foundation has been a long-time Museum partner in educational and environmental initiatives, and we are pleased that this latest project will help Museum visitors,” said Indira Everett, District Manager. “Duke Energy is committed to providing public education and access to sustainable technologies, and this project with the Museum helps us reach a broad audience in a practical way.”
Need a charge? Click here to find public charging stations.
The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is considered a leader in sustainability efforts and in 2012, received the Green Plus Certification from the Institute of Sustainable Development. It is the first museum in North Carolina to be recognized as a Green Business by the NC Green Travel Initiative program. To learn more about the Museum, visit www.lifeandscience.org.
For more information about getting around Durham, see Durham's official visitor website.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
NC Museum of Life and Science Santa Train Tickets On Sale On Nov. 12
Durham is a great place to celebrate the holidays, and the Museum of Life and Science has a special way to set the season's mood.
The Santa Train, as they would have children believe, takes a "festive ride to the North Pole." The reality is a fun spin through a few acres of woods on the museum property in the cool and crisp evening air. As the train chugs along, holiday lights twinkle and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer magically flies by. Upon returning to the station, riders enjoy an evening of crafts, complimentary hot chocolate and face painting plus holiday music.
The Santa Train, as they would have children believe, takes a "festive ride to the North Pole." The reality is a fun spin through a few acres of woods on the museum property in the cool and crisp evening air. As the train chugs along, holiday lights twinkle and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer magically flies by. Upon returning to the station, riders enjoy an evening of crafts, complimentary hot chocolate and face painting plus holiday music.
This year is the 35th anniversary of the the Santa Train at the Museum of Life and Science. This holiday tradition is also a fundraising event for the whole family. Learn more about the train on the museum's website where reservations can be made, and the schedule is posted. Advance registration for the train is required.
Visit Durham online before visiting in person, there are many tools to help with trip planning located on the official visitors website.
Visit Durham online before visiting in person, there are many tools to help with trip planning located on the official visitors website.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Invertivoria Culinary Experience at Museum of Life & Science's Sprout Cafe
The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is hosting an opportunity for adults to play after hours, and to tantalize their taste buds by taking part in an “invertivoria” culinary experience during the Summer Solstice After Hours 21+ event on Wednesday, June 20. Chefs at the Museum’s new Sprout Café will serve-up a four-course meal prepared with conchs, insect skewers, giant sago worms and more. 
Not into “invertivoria”? Well there is so much more at this event. Dancing shoes are a must because there will be a contra caller and live music. You can also build with bamboo, take a psychedelic train ride, watch the sun set over the wetlands and visit with the Museum’s black bears and red wolves and so much more. Food trucks will also be onsite.
The Summer Solstice event is part of the Museum’s adult 21+ series which also includes the very popular Science of Beer event on September 13. These events sell out quickly. Learn more and purchase tickets online.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Durham's Museum of Life & Science Soon to Sprout
Good food in Durham is about as important as good times. Come March, both can be had here at the Museum of Life and Science when a new café, with a new look, new menu and new ownership opens for business.
After meeting with several local restaurant owners who expressed interest, the Museum chose to award the contract to Tom Meyer. Meyer got his start in the restaurant business locally as an employee at Durham's vaunted Nana's, the owner of which, Scott Howell, has recently been nominated for a James Beard Foundation Award for his culinary excellence. Meyer later became involved with Durham's The Original Q Shack in 2003 and now owns The Q-Shack in Raleigh and Green's Restaurant at UNC Hospital. He is no longer involved with Durham's The Original Q Shack.
“We decided to award the contract to Mr. Meyer because of his commitment to quality service and emphasis on preparing healthy meals that are made using ingredients from local farmers,” says Shawntel Landavazo with the Museum, project leader of the café selection process.
Buying local is the basis of Meyer’s business model. "Foods grown in their unique climates take on the characteristics, or 'tastes' of their places. In North Carolina, we are blessed with a huge assortment of wonderful produce, meats and artisan producers,” says Meyer. The company’s product procurement plan focuses on buying locally when available and regionally when seasons or supply changes.
The buy local message will not only be part of the taste experience, but part of the overall patron experience. Future plans include teaching visitors about the benefits of buying local and to show how food goes from the farm to the table. Implementing exhibits about composting and water reuse and a seasonal garden are currently being discussed between Meyer and the Museum. Programs which focus on the benefits of local produce may also take place in the future.
So what will you find in this new café? Well you won’t find a microwave or chefs opening a can of beans with a can opener. Instead you’ll find fresh collard greens, sweet potatoes, cabbage and an assortment of meats that are free of steroids, pesticides and preservatives and meals that are never cooked in hydrogenated oils.
Vegetarian and gluten free options will be available. And if you suffer from food allergies, the new café includes a prep area where meals can be specially made to eliminate the risk of cross contamination. According to Landavazo, meals will not only be healthy, but reasonably priced and delicious.
The new Sprout café is scheduled to open its doors to the public in March. Learn more about dining options in Durham here.
After meeting with several local restaurant owners who expressed interest, the Museum chose to award the contract to Tom Meyer. Meyer got his start in the restaurant business locally as an employee at Durham's vaunted Nana's, the owner of which, Scott Howell, has recently been nominated for a James Beard Foundation Award for his culinary excellence. Meyer later became involved with Durham's The Original Q Shack in 2003 and now owns The Q-Shack in Raleigh and Green's Restaurant at UNC Hospital. He is no longer involved with Durham's The Original Q Shack.“We decided to award the contract to Mr. Meyer because of his commitment to quality service and emphasis on preparing healthy meals that are made using ingredients from local farmers,” says Shawntel Landavazo with the Museum, project leader of the café selection process.
Buying local is the basis of Meyer’s business model. "Foods grown in their unique climates take on the characteristics, or 'tastes' of their places. In North Carolina, we are blessed with a huge assortment of wonderful produce, meats and artisan producers,” says Meyer. The company’s product procurement plan focuses on buying locally when available and regionally when seasons or supply changes.
The buy local message will not only be part of the taste experience, but part of the overall patron experience. Future plans include teaching visitors about the benefits of buying local and to show how food goes from the farm to the table. Implementing exhibits about composting and water reuse and a seasonal garden are currently being discussed between Meyer and the Museum. Programs which focus on the benefits of local produce may also take place in the future.
So what will you find in this new café? Well you won’t find a microwave or chefs opening a can of beans with a can opener. Instead you’ll find fresh collard greens, sweet potatoes, cabbage and an assortment of meats that are free of steroids, pesticides and preservatives and meals that are never cooked in hydrogenated oils.
Vegetarian and gluten free options will be available. And if you suffer from food allergies, the new café includes a prep area where meals can be specially made to eliminate the risk of cross contamination. According to Landavazo, meals will not only be healthy, but reasonably priced and delicious.
The new Sprout café is scheduled to open its doors to the public in March. Learn more about dining options in Durham here.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Math Moves!: New Permanent Exhibit Opening at Durham's Museum of Life & Science
The exhibition, which focuses on ratio and proportion, will be part of a 3-year national study launching in 2012 and facilitated by the Center for Research in Mathematics and Science Education. The study will test the thesis that science centers can best help children prepare for algebra by providing rich, engaging, long-term environments and experiences that make math learning fun and rewarding.
Another first for the Museum, the Math Moves! exhibit is offered in both English and Spanish and thus serves a greater proportion of the museum's visitor base. Designed for ages 6-12 and their families, Math Moves! is expected to be on display at the Museum for the next 3-5 years.
Durham is a great place for families to spend the day. The 2012 Official Visitor & Relocation Guide is now available to help people plan their trip. The Durham Convention & Visitors Bureau will send them to those who request them.
GAME ON! at the Museum of Life & Science
In Durham and the Research Triangle Region, video games aren't just all fun and games. They're big business for companies, colleges, and universities. The Triangle's booming video game technology industry boasts over 40 video games companies employing more than 1,500 people. Additionally, more and more institutions of higher education offer courses of study centered around the gaming industry.
Needless to say, gaming is hot in the Bull City; especially among teenage enthusiasts - the future of the gaming industry. For those young fans, the Museum of Life & Science is hosting a special event.
"Game On!" will be tomorrow, Friday, February 17 from 6-9PM. Game On! offers teens the opportunity to play some of the hottest games on the market as well as meet and learn first hand from the professionals behind the gaming industry including programmers, designers and artists.
Redstorm Entertainment and Virtual Heroes are just a few companies that will be onsite. Check out who's coming on the Museum of Life & Science's webpage. Participants must be age 13-18 to attend, registration requested.
Needless to say, gaming is hot in the Bull City; especially among teenage enthusiasts - the future of the gaming industry. For those young fans, the Museum of Life & Science is hosting a special event.
"Game On!" will be tomorrow, Friday, February 17 from 6-9PM. Game On! offers teens the opportunity to play some of the hottest games on the market as well as meet and learn first hand from the professionals behind the gaming industry including programmers, designers and artists.
Redstorm Entertainment and Virtual Heroes are just a few companies that will be onsite. Check out who's coming on the Museum of Life & Science's webpage. Participants must be age 13-18 to attend, registration requested.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Museum Must Sees: For a Limited Time Only
For only a few more short weeks, Durham boasts two highly acclaimed exhibits which explore the
perspectives and experiences that define both Durham and the greater Southeast. For those looking
to spend the winter hours indoors, the following exhibits are well worth a visit.
Presented by the Museum
of Life and Science, RACE: Are We So Different? brings
together the everyday experience of living with race, its history as an idea,
the role of science in that history, and the findings of contemporary science
that are challenging its foundations. The award winning interactive
exhibition, developed by the American Anthropological Association in
collaboration with the Science Museum of Minnesota, is the first of its kind to tell the stories of
race from the biological, cultural, and historical points of view. The exhibit
will be up through January 22, 2012 – consult the museum’s calendar and make
some plans to visit.
NC Central University Art Museum's popular and thought provoking exhibition Let Your Motto be Resistance:
African-American Portraits is currently on exhibition through the middle of the month. Originally presented as the inaugural exhibit of the
Smithsonian’s National Museum of African-American History and Culture, the
collection of photography reveals the nation’s history through an
African-American lens. This very special exploration of African-American
culture will remain on display until January 15, 2012. Check the museum’s website for
hours and make arrangements to visit as soon as possible.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Rare Fossil Find Makes NC Museum of Life and Science That Much More Interesting
Jesse Duncan is a pretty lucky kid.
While on a recent trip to the Museum of Life and Science (MLS) in Durham, he found an extremely rare fossil worth big bucks...and he gets to keep it. The MLS has a fossil dig site on its Dinosaur Trail exhibit where visitors can dig in phosphate dirt from a mine in Aurora, NC and are likely to find the remains of ancient sharks, whales, bony fish, corals, shells and other invertebrates that are 23 million to 5 million years old.
Jesse hit pay dirt with his fossil of a symphesial cow shark tooth. He heralded his find with “Mom, look what I found. Something cool!”
While on a recent trip to the Museum of Life and Science (MLS) in Durham, he found an extremely rare fossil worth big bucks...and he gets to keep it. The MLS has a fossil dig site on its Dinosaur Trail exhibit where visitors can dig in phosphate dirt from a mine in Aurora, NC and are likely to find the remains of ancient sharks, whales, bony fish, corals, shells and other invertebrates that are 23 million to 5 million years old. 
Jesse hit pay dirt with his fossil of a symphesial cow shark tooth. He heralded his find with “Mom, look what I found. Something cool!” Not knowing what is was at the time, his mom, Amanda, turned to the internet, posted a picture in a fossil forum. “I posted an image along with a description where the fossil was found and responses poured in. One collector described the piece as the “Holy Grail” of sharks teeth. Collectors were especially in awe by the fossil’s pristine condition. There are no teeth missing. This is a rare find,” she said.
The MLS welcomed more than 440,000 visitors last year and is lauded as one of the best family friendly museums in the Southeastern US with informational displays, participatory exhibits, and acres of outdoor installations with which visitors young and old can interact including live animals in natural habitats, a butterfly house and the aforementioned Dinosaur Trail.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Fun Times with the Kids in the Bull City
Durham has a lot to offer those that live, work and visit here. It is a town with incredible diversity in population, cuisine, and activity, and there are many ways to enjoy the place where great things happen.
Here is a list of some of the options for those visiting Durham with children tow. Durham's official visitor website has all the information available on things to do for all types of visitor. Be sure to visit the site as plans to come to Durham take shape.
So, on to the specifics...
Summer activities for families:
For additional information, see the Community Event Calendar for a list of all upcoming family-friendly events in the place where great things happen.
Here is a list of some of the options for those visiting Durham with children tow. Durham's official visitor website has all the information available on things to do for all types of visitor. Be sure to visit the site as plans to come to Durham take shape.
So, on to the specifics...
Free family activities
Durham Farmers’ Market – Located in Durham Central Park, the Market offers "The Durham Home Fries" a weekly kids-only cooking series throughout the summer.
Music on the Lawn – Hosted by American Tobacco, this family friendly music series runs throughout the summer and features some of music’s most beloved Back Porch Music acts.
Third Friday Art Walk – Free gallery crawl with live music and other performances throughout Durham the third Friday of each month.
Movies in the Park – Durham Central Park hosts a free outdoors, summer film series; the screen hangs from the Farmers’ Market Pavilion. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. Shows start at dark.
Summer activities for families:
Lemur Center - Research and study center housing 260 prosimian primates, the largest population of lemurs outside of their native Madagascar. Guided walking tour & inside viewing of nocturnal prosimians with unique sound experience by appointment only.
Museum of Life & Science - Preserved natural setting home to black bears, red wolves, and lemurs. Natural observation areas, 750-foot boardwalk, outdoor microscopes, and field cameras look into this dynamic natural landscape, its wildlife, plant life, and supporting habitats. Included with admission to the Museum of Life and Science.
Wheel’s Family Fun Park - 8 1/2 acre park full of family fun. Attractions include roller skating, go-karts, mini-golf, play gym, batting cages and more.
Durham Bulls Athletic Park - The Durham Bulls are the Triple-A Baseball affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. The team plays 144 games per season, 72 at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, overlooking historic Downtown Durham and designed by the architects of Camden Yards.
The Scrap Exchange - Among the Scrap Exchange's offerings are kid-friendly workshops and parties. The creative reuse center promotes creativity, environmental awareness, and community through reuse.
Favorite family parks:
Rock Quarry Park – Home to three picnic facilities, a playground, a large rec center, soccer fields, a spray ground, eight tennis courts, and a baseball field.
Durham Central Park – Arts-themed, community-focused, municipal park in downtown Durham.
West Point on the Eno – Located along the Eno River, the park features a reconstructed 1778 working grist mill with cornmeal for sale, the historic McCown-Mangum House dating to the mid-1800s, the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography, hiking trails, and amphitheater.
Eno River State Park – Enjoy bird-watching, canoeing/rafting, fishing, hiking, and picnic shelters within 3,900 acres of secluded wilderness along the banks of the Eno River.
American Tobacco Trail - 12 miles of trails from Downtown Durham to NC Hwy 54, then from Massey Chapel Rd to Durham/Chatham County line - perfect for bicycling, hiking, walking, and running.
Duke Forrest - 7,060-acre teaching and research forest of Duke University with a variety of ecosystems represented. Preserved for research and recreation since the 1930s. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and picnics permitted.
City Parks and State Parks - Durham boasts more than 60 city parks and state parks.
For additional information, see the Community Event Calendar for a list of all upcoming family-friendly events in the place where great things happen.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
Be One of the Many Visitors to the Museum of Life and Science
Each year Carolina Publishing Associates conducts a survey to rank the largest historic attractions in North Carolina. Each year, the Museum of Life and Science makes an appearance on the list. This year, the Museum of Life and Science was the ninth on the list.
There is no wonder hundreds of thousands visit the museum with the great exhibits such as: The Magic Wings Butterfly House, the Bayer CropScience Insectarium, the Dinosaur Trail, Explore the Wild, and Catch the Wind to name a few.
In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Museum of Life and Science is constantly hosting events for kids of all ages. For example, every Saturday in March, they will be hosting a “Tournament of Science” with special science activities themed around sports, microbiology, nanoscale science, animals, genomics, and celebrating National Pi Day.
Those interested in robot fighting can join the league of robot enthusiasts for the Robot Rumble on Saturday, April 16. The battle will include demos and information about current and future innovations in the robotics field.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Feeling Like Spring?
It's always refreshing when the grip of winter loosens its hold on the place where great things happen, and it seemed that the grip was a little tighter than usual this year. There were no record snowfalls, but there were many of them. While that's enough to dampen the spirits of the average Southerner, folks in Durham are hardly average...Durham is the Bull City for more than tobacco - folks are pretty hearty. Nonetheless, spring brings all sorts of great opportunities to get out in the world and enjoy some fresh air.
 |
| This image of the Sarah P. Duke Gardens can be downloaded at http://www.durhamncphotos.com/. |
- The Sarah P. Duke Gardens - these are free, open to the public and are going to be bursting to life shortly.
- Outdoor dining - many restaurants are opening their patios on these warmer days, so be on the look out for dining al fresco options soon.
- The NC Museum of Life and Science - the outdoor spaces are a great way to get the kids all tuckered out, especially if they've felt cooped up in the colder weather.
- West Point on the Eno - a walk through the woods beside a river can be just what the doctor ordered to shake off some of those cold weather cob webs.
- Go to the Durham Farmers' Market on Saturday morning - the offerings are mighty tasty.
- Take in some of the action at the Durham Skate Park - it's a great way to burn off some calories and watch some great developing talent in a state of the art facility.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Free Admission for Durham County Residents
On Sunday, November 7, the Museum of Life and Science is hosting “Durham Appreciation Day” from noon to 5pm. For free admission, each adult must show a photo ID that shows a Durham County residency. Everyone wanting to experience the tropics of the Magic Wings Butterfly House, go back in time on the Dinosaur Trail, or see other new exhibits, is encouraged to visit the museum. Donations are appreciated.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)