At first I thought Adventure Science Center in Nashville would be for kids. Maybe it is to a certain extent but adults can have a fun time, too. Turn me loose in anything I can light up or make loud and I'm all in.
I conducted an orchestra, made music and even participated in an American Idol-type singing challenge to see if I was pitchy. I'm not telling you how I did so don't bother asking.
I'd heard of 3-D printers but never seen one in action... until we stopped by the Innovation Incubator. I was amazed at the different toys and gadgets that could be made seemingly out of thin air. I don't know that I'd have the creativity to make something but it was fun to see what other people have come up with. There are lots of hands-on elements here.
One of the loudest areas -- but seemingly the most fun -- was the Tinkering Garage where you can build a contraption and take it home. Just walking through the sound was overwhelming but I imagine when you're focused on your creation you don't notice it.
But perhaps the highlight of my visit was the planetarium. Stepping inside the darkened dome, I was immediately transported to another world. The show I attended took us on a journey through the solar system, exploring the planets, stars and galaxies beyond our own. The narration was engaging and informative, and the visuals were simply breathtaking. I felt like I was floating among the cosmos, surrounded by the wonders of the universe. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Then we reached Adventure Tower. This impressive structure is visible for miles and houses a dizzying array of exhibits spread across multiple levels. Climbing the winding ramps, I was treated to panoramic views of the Nashville skyline. But the real fun was engaging with the exhibits themselves. I tested my reflexes with a light-based game, learned about the principles of levers and pulleys, and even tried my hand at launching a simulated rocket. The tower alone could easily occupy an entire afternoon.
Moving on from the tower, I delved into the fascinating world of the human body in the "BodyQuest" exhibit. Here, I explored a giant walk-through heart, learned about the functions of different organs, and even saw what happens to food as it travels through the digestive system (thankfully, not in too graphic detail!). This exhibit was a fantastic way to understand the incredible complexity of the human machine.
What impressed me most about the Adventure Science Center was its commitment to making science accessible and engaging for everyone. The exhibits were thoughtfully designed to cater to different learning styles and age groups. Whether you're a visual learner, a hands-on experimenter, or simply someone curious about the world around you, you'll find something to pique your interest.
The staff was also incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. They were always on hand to answer questions, offer demonstrations and guide visitors through the exhibits. Their enthusiasm was contagious and it added to the overall positive atmosphere of the center. (That, and all these visits are arranged through tourism boards with PR folks so we're generally hooked up with the best of the best!)
The Adventure Science Center is more than just a museum; it's a place where learning is an adventure. It's a place where curiosity is encouraged, and where the wonders of science are brought to life. If you're planning a trip to Nashville, I highly recommend adding this gem to your itinerary. Whether you're traveling with kids or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, the Adventure Science Center is sure to leave you feeling inspired and enlightened.
