Outdoor Science
Our Backyard
Created in collaboration with community design partners, Our Backyard is the summer space to create, build, splash, wander, and reminisce — or simply take a break and enjoy the river view. This summer, build a bridge, experiment with a bamboo water run, explore cultural and experimental gardens, play lawn games, or kick back and soak up the sun.
The backyard is closed for the season.
New this year
Returning fan favorites
Patio Thursdays
July 25
August 8
August 22
September 19
Enjoy lunch at your nearest national park! On select Thursdays throughout the summer, bring your noontime meal (or purchase one from the museum) while learning about our backyard national park – The Mississippi River.
These free, 15-minute patio talks happen on the museum’s Kellogg Plaza in downtown Saint Paul—the perfect backdrop to hear from expert National Park Service rangers.
PNC Mobile Learning Adventure
Saturday, Aug. 24 and Sunday, Aug. 25 | Kellogg Plaza
Brought to us by PNC Grow Up Great, check out this traveling exhibit that allows YOU to be the STEAM superstar of your choosing. In this interactive adventure, your career possibilities are as countless as stars in the sky. Make your way through four activity stations, creating the future you envision for yourself, all while earning achievement badge stickers.
