6 Detroit Museums and Exhibits That Aren’t a Bore

Think museums are a bore? Think again. From traveling exhibitions that you need to see before they’re gone to permanent displays that offer a unique experience each time you go, Detroit museums are as entertaining as they are educational.

Catch them while you can

• 1. “The Science Behind Pixar” at Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
     Now through March 18, 2018
     Through more than 40 different interactive stations, “The Science Behind Pixar” traveling exhibit showcases what goes into bringing some your favorite animated characters to life. The exhibition’s eight sections each focus on a step in the filmmaking process to give you an unparalleled view of the production pipeline and concepts used at Pixar each day. Add the experience to your museum admission for just $5.
  2. “1963 Chrysler Turbine” at the Detroit Historical Museum
     Now through August 2018
     The Chrysler Turbine — a turbine-powered car touted as an alternative to the piston engine —disappeared quickly after hitting the automotive scene in the 1960s. Most were destroyed by Chrysler for tax and liability reasons, but you can see one of the few survivors at the Detroit Historical Museum’s Automotive Showplace, a rotating exhibit space that features rare and unique vehicles from the Detroit Historical Society’s collection. Admission to both the museum and the Chrysler exhibit are free.
  3.  “Ancient Rome: Age of the Caesars” at the Cranbrook Science Institute
     Now through July 3, 2018
     Explore and experience the gadgets, clever technologies and mighty machines of the Roman Empire. You’ll be surprised how many aspects of our society resemble those of 2,000 years ago! The exhibition sets the scene with display panels, videos, 3-D virtual reality reconstructions and iconic objects from important historical events, myths and legends of Ancient Rome. It’s free for CIS enhanced members, $4 for CIS standard members and $5 for non-members.

Make a repeat visit

1. Motown Museum
   Stand where The Supremes first issued the command to “Stop in the Name of Love” inside Hitsville, U.S.A., the birthplace of the Motown Sound and former residence of Berry Gordy. Original instruments and equipment stand ready for the next recording session.
2. African Bead Museum
   Adorned with a colorful mosaic of mirrors and beads, the African Bead Museum’s reflective exterior will definitely catch your eye. Its 18 outdoor installations and assortment of African artifacts, sculptures, textiles, pottery and bead works will capture your interest too.
3. Michigan Science Center
   With live stage shows, a 4D theater, a planetarium, more than 250 hands-on exhibits, lab activities and special exhibits, the Michigan Science Center offers more than you can see and do in a week. Check out the STEM Playground where you can create and test paper airplanes, use your imagination to build with blocks and learn about angles and wind direction on a sail car table.

Discover more about museums in Detroit.