Museum of Science (Boston) - Bucketlisted

Museum of Science (Boston)

Interactive science museum with IMAX, planetarium, and lightning show

Save visits & photos across your bucket list — sign in to start.

No memories yet. Add your first visit to start a timeline.

Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

Boston’s Museum of Science is one of the oldest and most renowned science museums in the U.S., tracing its roots back to 1830 as the Boston Society of Natural History. Today, it is one of the most visited science museums in the world, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually with 700+ hands-on exhibits, a five-story IMAX theater, and a world-class planetarium.

Located in Science Park, where Boston and Cambridge meet, the museum spans the Charles River, providing an immersive experience in space exploration, robotics, engineering, and human biology. Don’t miss the Lightning Show at the Theater of Electricity, featuring the world’s largest air-insulated Van de Graaff generator, or the Charles Hayden Planetarium, which offers some of the most advanced astronomy shows in the country.

Beyond exhibits, the museum is home to over 100 live animals, interactive workshops, and daily science demonstrations, making it a must-visit destination for all ages. Whether you’re fascinated by dinosaurs, AI, the human body, or the cosmos, the Museum of Science delivers an unforgettable STEM experience in the heart of Boston.

USA > Massachusetts > Boston

Museums, Science Museums