4 reasons Dayton moms love the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

Entertaining the kiddos can be tough.

You have to have the right amount of fun, engagement and education — without spending a fortune.

Here are three reasons to add the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery to your Dayton Bucket List soon (if you haven’t been there already):

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Credit: Alex Perry

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1. BUSY KIDS CAN BE A GOOD THING!

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery houses many education-based experiences and exhibits that’ll inspire your young one’s mind with knowledge space, animals, fossils, shapes and more. There is no shortage of things to do and explore.

Don’t forget to stop at the the jungle gym. A nap on the way home is practically guaranteed.

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Credit: Alex Perry

2. LEARNING CAN BE FUN!

Daily programs offer educational fun for various age groups. There are Toddler Investigations, Lil' Scientists sensory learning (preschool age), Sensory Sundays (less stimulating atmosphere perfect for children with special needs or those who are overstimulated easily), planetarium shows (grade-school age), zookeeper talks (all ages) and more. Kids ages 5 and up can even adopt a Discovery Zoo Animal Ambassador.

The museum also offers workshops, summer camps and more, so the learning doesn’t stop after just one visit.

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Credit: Alex Perry

3.GETTING DIRTY (OR WET) IS ENCOURAGED

Unlike many museums, the Boonshoft encourages children to get their hands dirty — or wet, rather.

From their Tidal Pool exploration station, to animal care hospital, to the shape center (and more), children can dive full force into 13 different exhibits themed around science and the humanities with hands-on learning.

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Credit: Alex Perry

Credit: Alex Perry

A FEW THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO...

There are applicable discounts for guests with memberships with various organizations.

The Boonshoft has reciprocity programs for the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Association of Science-Technology Centers and the Association of Children's Museums.

There are also discounts for AAA members, State Farm members, and buy one get one free tickets for military members Memorial Day through Labor Day. Children under 3 also get in for free.

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Want to go?

WHAT: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

WHERE: 2600 Deweese Pkwy, Dayton

HOURS: Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 12 to 5 p.m.

PRICE: Adults $14.50, Seniors (60+) $12.50, Children (3-17) $11.50, Children (under 3) Free

INFO: Call 937-275-7431 | Online

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