Are you tired of museums that treat you like a fragile artifact, constantly reminding you to "look but don't touch"? Well, get ready to unleash your inner mad scientist at MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in Santa Barbara, California. This one-of-a-kind destination is a 17,000 square foot playground for curious minds of all ages, where hands-on scientific and creative experiences are the name of the game.
Explore More, Touch More, Learn More
From the moment you step into MOXI's vibrant halls, it's clear that this is no ordinary museum. The exhibits here are designed to be played with, poked, prodded, and manipulated to your heart's content. Want to study your favorite guitar riffs up close? Step into the Giant Guitar exhibit and strum away. Curious about the science behind sound? Head to the Foley Studios and record your own movie sound effects. The possibilities for exploration are endless, and the only limit is your imagination.
Flex Your Creative Muscles
If you've ever dreamed of being an inventor, MOXI has the perfect place for you to bring your ideas to life: the Innovation Workshop. This makerspace is stocked with a wide array of tools, from low-tech popsicle sticks and glue to high-tech 3D printers. Unleash your inner Leonardo da Vinci and design your own invention, then put it to the test in the museum's many interactive exhibits.
Take to the Skies (and the Rooftop)
No visit to MOXI is complete without a trip to the rooftop Sky Garden. Here, you can compose a wind- and sun-powered symphony, walk across the glass Sky Deck, and enjoy a panoramic view of Santa Barbara from the mountains to the ocean. It's the perfect spot to take a breather and let your mind wander after all that hands-on learning.
A Museum for All Ages
One of the best things about MOXI is that it truly caters to curious minds of all ages. Whether you're a toddler just starting to explore the world, a kid with a thirst for knowledge, or a grown-up who never lost their sense of wonder, there's something here for everyone.
The exhibits are designed to be engaging and accessible, with plenty of opportunities for collaboration and teamwork. Bring your friends, your family, or even your coworkers for a day of learning and laughter that will leave you feeling inspired and energized.
Plan Your Visit
MOXI is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Admission is $15 for children ages 3–12 and $20 for adults (13+), with free admission for children under 2.
If you're arriving by car, there are several City of Santa Barbara parking lots within walking distance of MOXI, including City Lot #13, which is adjacent to the train station. The museum also has two accessible parking spots located at the rear of the building.
For a truly memorable visit, consider making a day of it and exploring the many other attractions in the area. The Funk Zone neighborhood is just a stone's throw away, with plenty of trendy shops, galleries, and restaurants to discover. Or take a stroll along the Santa Barbara Waterfront and soak up the sun and sea air.
A Sustainable Landmark
MOXI isn't just a place for learning and exploration – it's also a model of sustainable design. The museum is the first LEED Gold-certified building in Santa Barbara, with features like landscaped concrete planters, a cistern for collecting rainwater, and energy-efficient structural glass.
The architects behind MOXI, AB Design Studio, worked closely with the community to ensure that the museum would be a welcoming and inclusive space for all. Their fresh approach to the interior design complements the building's Spanish-style exterior, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.
Join the MOXI Family
If you live in the Santa Barbara area and plan to visit MOXI frequently, consider becoming a member. With a full year of unlimited fun and discovery, a family membership is the perfect way to ignite your curiosity and keep the learning going all year round.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your sense of adventure and head to MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. Whether you're a local or a visitor, young or old, this one-of-a-kind museum is sure to leave you feeling inspired, enlightened, and maybe even a little bit silly. After all, what's the point of learning if you can't have a little fun along the way?
Source: moxi.org
Header Image Source: moxi.org
