Bands, Brews, & BBQ: Horse Fzce
2025-07-10 16:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Bands, Brews, & BBQ is back for the summer at MDC!
Come join us on Thursday, July 10th, as well as Thursdays throughout the summer, to enjoy good music, good food, and good times. Admission is FREE—to both the museum and the music venue—every Thursday evening from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
The fourth group up on stage this summer is Horse Fzce! Consisting of singer/songwriter Heather Surla, singer/songwriter Eric Krenz, bassist and vocalist Tom Fricheck, and percussionist Liz Young, this quartet mixes mellow grooves and sharp edges into their original folk rock repertoire.
The Food Court opens at 4:30pm, and Horse Fzce starts playing at 5:30pm, so come grab your BBQ pork ribs, brisket tacos, and waffle fries (or a vegan sandwich, if that’s how you roll!) and hang out with your friends while supporting your local musicians.

Iron Man Car Show
2025-07-05 10:00 - 14:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
UPDATE: This event has been CANCELLED due to thunderstorm and flood warnings. Stay safe!
Start your engines and cruise on over to the Minnesota Discovery Center for the 14th Annual Iron Man Car Show! On Saturday, July 5, from 10:00am to 2:00pm, stroll through a stunning display of classic cars and trucks set along the scenic park pathways. This event is hosted by the Squires Car Club. ALL AREA CLUBS WELCOME!
Enjoy a fun-filled day with: Concessions Dozens of vintage vehicles Museum access, trolley rides, Heritage Park walks, Glen Location visits, and mini-golf
Car Enthusiast Registration:⭐ Bring your classic or antique ride and show it off!🚘 Open to all makes and models💸 $10 registration (day of only)
Attendee Admission:Regular museum admission applies. Plan your visit here: mndiscoverycenter.org/plan-a-visit
Don’t miss this beloved summer tradition—perfect for families, car lovers, and nostalgia seekers alike!

Interpretive Tour: Walking
2025-07-03 17:00 - 18:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Join an MDC tour guide for an interpretive stroll around Heritage Park! This experience highlights the common flora and fauna that are part of MDC’s natural ecosystem, and it particularly focuses on the identification of the dragonflies and damselflies that flitter through the flowers and leaves.
This is an accessible, all-ages walk. The route is completely wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
📅 Date: Thursday, July 3
⌚ Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
😃 Ages: everyone is welcome (children must be accompanied by an adult)
💪 Difficulty: beginner+
#️⃣ Capacity: 20
💸 Cost: $10
Spots are limited! Call to register: 218-254-7959
Note: This interpretive walking tour will be held again on Saturday, August 16, at 3:00pm.

Interpretive Tour: Walking
2025-06-28 15:00 - 16:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Join an MDC tour guide for an interpretive stroll around Heritage Park! This experience highlights the common flora and fauna that are part of MDC’s natural ecosystem, and it particularly focuses on the identification of the dragonflies and damselflies that flitter through the flowers and leaves.
This is an accessible, all-ages walk. The route is completely wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
📅 Date: Saturday, June 28
⌚ Time: 3:00pm – 4:00pm
😃 Ages: everyone is welcome (children must be accompanied by an adult)
💪 Difficulty: beginner+
#️⃣ Capacity: 20
💸 Cost: $10
Spots are limited! Call to register: 218-254-7959
Note: This interpretive walking tour will be held again on Thursday, July 3, at 5:00pm and Saturday, August 16, at 3:00pm.

Youth Mental Health Night
2025-06-26 17:00 - 20:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Come join us on Thursday, June 26th, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm for the 5th Annual Youth Mental Health Night—a fun-filled evening dedicated to promoting healthy living and mental wellness!
Explore local mental health resources 🧠, enjoy educational activities 📚, and take part in exciting entertainment including vendors, games, prizes, and thrilling RideMN BMX stunt shows 🚲. All this set against the stunning backdrop of the Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm. Best of all—admission is free!

Bands, Brews, & BBQ: Reggie Ducote
2025-06-26 16:30 - 20:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Bands, Brews, & BBQ is back for the summer at MDC!
Come join us on Thursday, June 26th, as well as Thursdays throughout the summer, to enjoy good music, good food, and good times. Admission is FREE—to both the museum and the music venue—every Thursday evening from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
The third artist up on stage this summer is Reggie Ducote! Reggie likes to keep things simple with just an acoustic guitar and a microphone. He is known for his raw, real performances, and his set lists include both cover music and original songs.
Plus! June 26th is also Youth Mental Health Night. As Reggie serenades you, enjoy vendors, games, prizes, thrilling Ride MN BMX stunt shows—and, of course, important information from mental health specialists from across the Iron Range.
The Food Court opens at 4:30pm, and Reggie Ducote starts playing at 5:30pm, so come grab your BBQ pork ribs, brisket tacos, and waffle fries (or a vegan sandwich, if that’s how you roll!) and hang out with your friends while you support your mental health.

Eli Young Band Concert
2025-06-20 18:30 - 21:30 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Mark your calendars, the Eli Young Band is hittin’ the MDC stage on Friday, June 20th — and it’s gonna be one helluva night! 🎸 This multi-platinum powerhouse of country music is ready to light up the night with all the hits you know and love.Hailing from Denton, Texas, the Eli Young Band has gone from local legends to arena-packing icons — and now they’re bringing that same electric energy to our open-air amphitheater. Get ready to sing loud, dance harder, and make some summer memories under the Iron Range sky! Friday, June 20th 6:30pm-9:30pm (venue doors open at 5:00pm) Minnesota Discovery Center | 1005 Discovery Dr, Chisholm, MN 55719
🎟 Get your tickets today!
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/minnesotadiscoverycenter/1666759?

Interpretive Tour: Mountain Biking
2025-06-19 17:00 - 18:30 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Mountain biking is hard work. So is mining! Join MDC’s recreation staff in a two-wheeled guided tour of labor history using the Redhead MTB Park’s “Boneyard Loop.” This 1.5-hour activity includes a half-hour MTB safety/skills session followed by an interpretative mountain biking tour around the Boneyard (which is rated as a “green” beginner-friendly trail).
Previous biking experience is advised. You can bring your own mountain bike and helmet or rent gear at a discounted price from the 30West Bike Shop, located in MDC’s summer admission building. Helmets are required!
📅 Date: Thursday, June 19
⌚ Time: 5:00pm- 6:30pm
😃 Ages: 13 – adult
💪 Difficulty: beginner+
#️⃣ Capacity: 5
💸 Cost: $20 with your own gear; rental prices vary per bike type
Spots are limited! Call to register: 218-254-7959
Note: This interpretive mountain biking tour will be held again on Saturday, July 26 at 3:00pm and Thursday, August 7 at 5:00pm.

Summer Paleo Camps
2025-06-16 09:30 - 2025-08-07 16:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Explore the exciting world of paleontology at the Minnesota Discovery Center! Our hands-on summer camps offer an interactive learning experience about paleontology, what paleontologists do, and its connection to Northern Minnesota.
Activities Include:
🦴 Digging for real fossils
🔎 Fossil sifting
🧽 Fossil cleaning
🧠 Identification and labeling
Details:
Below are the dates and age groups for the three sessions:
Ages 4-7 CampDate: June 16-18Time: 9:30am-12:30pmCost: $67.50 for members, $75 for non-membersVenue: Indoor activities will be in the new Play Studio, while outdoor will be on MDC’s campus.
There will be mid-morning light snacks and juice each day. Parents will need to accompany their kid(s). Parents can bring multiple kids, as long as they are between 4 and 7 years old.
Ages 8-12 Camp
Date: July 14-17Time: 9:00am-4:00pmCost: $126 for members, $140 for non-membersVenue: MDC’s indoor Paleo Lab and outdoors at the Hill Annex Mine.
NEW ADDITIONAL OPTION (see below)
Date: August 4-7
Time: 9:00am-4:00pm
Cost: $126 for members, $140 for non-members
Venue: MDC’s indoor Paleo Lab and outdoors at the Hill Annex Mine.
Lunch is served daily. One day is a field day, bring “work” clothes. Cost includes: Riker mount boxes, field journal, and art projects.
Ages 13-18 CampDate: June 23-26Time: 9:00am-4:00pmCost: $126 for members, $140 for non-membersVenue: MDC’s indoor Paleo Lab and outdoors at the Hill Annex Mine.
Lunch is served daily. One day is a field day, bring “work” clothes. Cost includes: Riker mount boxes, field journal, and art projects.
Spots in all camps are limited. Give us a call today at 218-254-7959 to sign up your child!
~~~
UPDATE!
Due to an eager response to our Summer Paleo Camp programs here at the Minnesota Discovery Center, we are opening an additional camp week for our 8- to 12-year-old fossil enthusiasts.
The new camp runs August 4th-7th, Monday to Thursday, 9:00am-4:00pm each day.
This new camp week was encouraged by a strong wait list, SO DON’T DELAY ❗❗ The few spots available will likely fill up fast. Call today at 218-254-7959 to snag your child’s spot!

Interpretive Tour: Kayaking
2025-06-14 15:00 - 16:30 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Get your paddle on! Join the Minnesota Discovery Center’s experienced tour guides as they take you into a watery world unique to the Iron Range. Learn about the Glen Pit Lake’s geology and limnology (AKA: lake science) while getting in touch with the serene side of a recreational paddle.
The tour is 1.5 hours long with the first half-hour including a basic safety and skills presentation. You can bring your own kayak, paddle, and life jacket, or you can rent all three from MDC. Life jackets are required!
📅 Date: Saturday, June 14
⌚ Time: 3:00pm- 4:30pm
😃 Ages: 13 – adult
💪 Difficulty: beginner+
#️⃣ Capacity: 8
💸 Cost: $20 with your own gear, $35 with rental gear
Spots are limited! Call to register: 218-254-7959
Note: This interpretive kayaking tour will be held again on Thursday, July 17 at 5:00pm and Saturday, August 30 at 3:00pm.

Bands, Brews, & BBQ: Rich Mattson & Germaine Gemberling
2025-06-12 16:30 - 20:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Bands, Brews, & BBQ is back for the summer at MDC!
Come join us on Thursday, June 12th, as well as Thursdays throughout the summer, to enjoy good music, good food, and good times. Admission is FREE—to both the museum and the music venue—every Thursday evening from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
The second group up on stage this summer is fan-favorite couple Rich Mattson & Germaine Gemberling! Known throughout the state as Minnesotan musical mainstays, this acclaimed acoustic duo has been writing, recording, and performing together since 2010. Their repertoire includes country, folk, and rock classics, as well as original compositions inspired by the Northlands.
The Food Court opens at 4:30pm, and Rich Mattson & Germaine Gemberling start playing at 5:30pm. Come enjoy the food special (a Cajun-seasoned fried walleye sandwich) before it runs out and hang out with your friends while supporting your local musicians.

The Okee Dokee Brothers Concert
2025-06-08 11:00 - 13:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
We’re kicking off our summer concerts with a very special guest — Minnesota’s own The Okee Dokee Brothers! 🌟🎤
This Grammy Award-winning 🏆duo is known for their toe-tapping bluegrass and American roots music that the whole family can enjoy—perfect for kids, parents, and everyone in between! 🎻
With songs inspired by nature and adventure, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience! 🛶🌲This family-friendly event is not to be missed! Let the summer fun begin! ☀️🎶
📅 Sunday, June 8th
🕚 11:00am – 1:00pm
📍 Minnesota Discovery Center (MDC)
🎟️ Grab your tickets now: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/minnesotadiscoverycenter/1666761
$25 general admission seating (ages 3 and up)
FREE (on lap) for children ages 2 and under
❗❗ Additionally, all attendees of The Okee Dokee Brothers concert will enjoy complimentary museum access and a complimentary round on MDC’s 19-hole, mining-themed mini-golf course.

Interpretive Tour: Hiking
2025-06-05 17:00 - 18:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Step back into time with a Minnesota Discovery Center tour guide! This 1-hour interpretive hiking tour takes you through the unique, historical industrial landscape that MDC calls home. As you trek through the Redhead Trail System, you’ll learn about the sometimes-hidden past of a mining environment in reclamation—and you’ll get in a good workout.
This tour is appropriate for beginner through advanced hikers ages 10 to adult. Some familiarity with hiking best practices is advised. Appropriate hiking footwear highly is recommended.
📅 Date: Thursday, June 5
⌚ Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
😃 Ages: 10 – adult
💪 Difficulty: beginner+
#️⃣ Capacity: 10
💸 Cost: $10
Spots are limited! Call to register: 218-254-7959
Note: This interpretive hiking tour will be held again on Saturday, July 12 at 3:00pm and Thursday, August 21 at 5:00pm.

Bands, Brews, & BBQ: R&B
2025-06-05 16:30 - 20:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Bands, Brews, & BBQ is back for the summer at MDC!
Come join us on Thursday, June 5th, as well as Thursdays throughout the summer, to enjoy good music, good food, and good times. Admission is FREE—to both the museum and the music venue—every Thursday evening from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
The first artist up on stage this summer is (*drumroll please*) R&B, featuring Sharon Rowbottom and Dan Boyer! Using their voices and their acoustic guitars, this dynamic duo puts their own spin on classic popular music from The Byrds to The Beatles. Fans love the familiar, yet fresh nostalgia they hear when they tune in—and you will, too.
And! As an extra special, extra fluffy treat, the adorable animals from Cook’s Country Connection will be joining us for the first Bands, Brews, & BBQ of 2025!
The Food Court opens at 4:30pm, and R&B starts playing at 5:30pm, so come grab your BBQ pork ribs, brisket tacos, and waffle fries (or a vegan sandwich, if that’s how you roll!) and hang out with your friends while supporting your local musicians. It’s gonna be a warm, breezy time.

Shuttle Service Starts Up
2025-06-03 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Adventure season is here! 🛶 Starting Tuesday, June 3rd, the Minnesota Discovery Center’s mountain bike shuttle and kayak/canoe rentals are open to the public! 🚴‍♂️
You can rent a kayak or canoe, paddles, and lifejackets for just $15/hour, and we’ll shuttle you to the gorgeous Glen Pit Lake launch — totally free! 💦 Prefer to bring your own gear? No problem — you and your equipment can ride the shuttle for just $5. 🎒
For mountain bikers hitting the trails at Redhead Mountain Bike Park, the shuttle is just $5 to or from anywhere in the park. 🚵‍♀️ Need a pickup mid-ride? No sweat — just call MDC Admissions’ front desk at 218-254-7959, and we’ll meet you trailside for only $5. 🌲🚐
The shuttle’s scheduled runs happen four times a day at 10:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, and 4:00pm. However, if those times don’t work for you, you can also schedule an individual trip by calling MDC Admissions’ front desk at 218-254-7959. We’re here to help!
Whether you’re paddling the lake or shredding the trails, MDC makes it easy to get out and play this summer! ☀️

Spring Cleaning Garage Sale
2025-05-24 10:00 - 15:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
It’s time for spring cleaning!
MDC is holding a garage sale on Saturday, May 24th, from 10:00am to 3:00pm. We’ll be selling supplies, fixtures, small wares, and furniture that we don’t use anymore—but that you might need!
Want to support your local museum? 💗💸 All proceeds from the sale are considered donations, and they will be put toward future MDC programming. Please note that we can only accept cash or check for this sale—so bring your small change!
📅 Saturday, May 24th
⏰ 10:00am – 3:00pm
📍 MDC’s Pavilion
💲 cash or check only
Food to fuel your shopping will be available for purchase in the Food Court! 🍔🍕😋

Outdoor Attractions and Activities Open for Summer
2025-05-24 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Summer is (finally) here!
The long Minnesotan winter is over (for real this time, no more surprise snow flurries) and here at MDC, we’re opening up our outdoor facilities. Starting May 24th: Come…

view our outdoor exhibits,
ride the trolley,
play a round of mini-golf,
and more!

Everyone needs Vitamin D 🌞—catch some rays exploring MDC’s beautiful 660-acre campus. The weather is looking good, and we’ll be thrilled to see you here!

Thursday Night Trivia - FINAL SESSION
2025-05-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Join us for Thursday Night Trivia on Thursday, May 15, from 6:00pm to 7:30pm, for a night of brain-busting fun.
This will be ❗THE LAST SESSION❗ of trivia for the season. It has been a big hit with MDC’s guests, so whether this will be your first time attending, or if you have made it to every single Thursday Night Trivia session, you won’t want to miss this. If you’ve won before? Come defend your title. If you haven’t won? Come claim your crown. Major bragging rights go to the members of the winning team during this final showdown. Plus…members of the winning team will earn free tickets to one MDC summer concert of their choice! Preview the artists here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/minnesotadiscoverycenter
Trivia is FREE to play—plus, there’s no admission fee to the MDC on Thursday nights, so you can check out the museum before and after the battle of wits! Whether you’re flying solo or with friends, this is your chance to show off your smarts. Trivia starts at 6:00pm sharp and wraps up around 7:30pm. While the questions are geared toward adults, everyone’s welcome!
Come hungry! Delicious food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Mother's Day Brunch
2025-05-11 10:00 - 15:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Sunday, May 11 10am–3pm First seating: 10am | Final seating: 1:30pm Taconite Square | Minnesota Discovery Center $38 Adults | $18 Kids under 12 | FREE for Kids 5 & under Cash bar available – beverages not included
Celebrate the MVP of your life—Mom! She deserves to be pampered, and what better way than with a mouthwatering brunch spread? We’re serving up all the favorites: Fresh Fruit French Toast Bread Pudding Champagne Chicken Assorted Desserts…and so much more!
Sip, savor, and spoil her in style with a cozy brunch atmosphere and cocktails available for purchase. Whether she’s a sweet tooth or a savory fan, we’ve got something she’ll love. Come toast to Mom with us—because she deserves the best!
Please call to make reservations: 218.254.7959

Yoga in the Overlook
2025-05-07 15:30 - 16:30 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Come experience an elevated yoga session on Wednesday, May 7th, from 3:30pm to 4:30pm in the MDC’s stunning scenic overlook. Led by Cheyenne Mikkola-Rahja, a seasoned yoga practitioner with 8 years of experience in Northern Minnesota, this class offers breathtaking views of the Redhead MTB Park as you embrace the benefits of yoga. Each session is taught at a relaxed pace, focusing on alignment and mindful breathing.

This Wednesday’s class is free with the cost of admission to the MDC and complimentary for all MDC members. Please bring your own yoga mat or use one of our limited extras.

Learn more about Cheyenne and her classes ~ https://cheyennemikkola.offeringtree.com.

Thursday Night Trivia
2025-05-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Join us for Thursday Night Trivia on May 1st from 6:00pm – 7:30pm, for a night of brain-busting fun. It’s FREE to play—plus, there’s no admission fee to the MDC on Thursday nights! Whether you’re flying solo or with friends, this is your chance to show off your smarts! Trivia starts at 6:00pm sharp and wraps up around 7:30pm. While the questions are geared toward adults, everyone’s welcome!

Come hungry—delicious food and drinks will be available for purchase. Don’t miss out!

Yoga in the Overlook
2025-04-30 15:30 - 16:30 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Come experience an elevated yoga session on Wednesday, April 30th, from 3:30pm to 4:30pm in the MDC’s stunning scenic overlook. Led by Cheyenne Mikkola-Rahja, a seasoned yoga practitioner with 8 years of experience in Northern Minnesota, this class offers breathtaking views of the Redhead MTB Park as you embrace the benefits of yoga. Each session is taught at a relaxed pace, focusing on alignment and mindful breathing.

This Wednesday’s class is free with the cost of admission to the MDC and complimentary for all MDC members. Please bring your own yoga mat or use one of our limited extras.

Learn more about Cheyenne and her classes ~ https://cheyennemikkola.offeringtree.com.

Iron Range Science & Engineering Festival (IRSEF STEM Fest)
2025-04-29 10:00 - 2025-05-01 13:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Presented by Minnesota Power, an ALLETE Company:
From Tuesday, April 29th, to Thursday, May 1st, seventh-grade students from across the Taconite Relief Area will be coming to the MDC for the 14th annual Iron Range Science & Engineering Festival! Students will participate in hands-on STEM activities designed to ignite their curiosity and inspire future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Each day starts at 10:00am and ends at 1:00pm.
Experience a dazzling laser light show by Prismatic Magic! Drive robots with the Iron Mosquitos FRC 5653‘s robotics team! Learn about the world’s latest technological innovations with the Science Museum of Minnesota! There is so much STEM magic to discover right here on the Iron Range.
We’d like to give a BIG thank you to this year’s IRSEF sponsors!
✈ Cirrus Aircraft
⚙ Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.
📞 CTC
🛠 Iron Range Plumbing and Heating
⛏ Iron Mining Association of Minnesota
🏗 Komatsu
🌲 Northeast Technical Services
📚 Range Association of Municipalities and Schools (RAMS)
⛓️ United States Steel
We couldn’t put on this amazing event without you!

"Miss Austen" Premiere Screening
2025-04-26 15:00 - 17:00 | MN
Calling all Jane Austen fans! Prepare to immerse yourselves in the captivating world of Regency England and the untold stories within the Austen family. PBS North and the MDC are thrilled to invite you to a special screening of the first episode of the highly anticipated Masterpiece presentation, “Miss Austen”!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26th, from 3:00pm to 5:00pm, and join us for an afternoon filled with elegance, intrigue, and a first look at this must-see new series. After the screening, stick around for some exciting door prize drawings! You might just win a little Austen-inspired treasure to take home with you. 🎁 💎
Space is limited! RSVP today!

Late Night in the Research Center
2025-04-24 10:00 - 20:00 | Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm, MN, 55719, United States
Late Night in the Research Center
(the last Thursday of every month)
Uncover your family’s story at the MDC! We’re extending our hours so you can explore the rich history of your ancestors. Join us for the next Late Night at the Research Center on Thursday, April 24th, from 10:00am to 8:00pm. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced researcher, we’re here to guide you. Best of all, admission to the Iron Range Research Center is completely free! Come and dive into your family history!

Easter Festival
2025-04-12 10:00 - 13:00 | MN
Enjoy a hoppin’ good time for the whole family at our Easter Festival on Saturday, April 12th from 10am-1pm! 🐇🐣
Get ready for an egg-citing Easter Scavenger Hunt—searching for hidden treasures all around the museum! Plus, meet the adorable animals from Cook’s Country Connection! 🐾💖
There’s something fun for everyone:
🎨 Face Painting
🖍️ Coloring Station
🌸 Paper Flower Crafting
Treat yourself to some yummy snacks and drinks. 🍪 Come for the fun, stay for the memories—this is one Easter celebration you won’t want to miss! 🎉🐰
Free for members & $5 for nonmembers.

Puzzle Contest
2025-04-05 13:00 - 16:00 | MN
When:
Saturday, April 5
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Puzzle Swap begins at 1:00pm
Competition starts at 2:00pm
Where:
Taconite Square inside the Minnesota Discovery Center
Details:
Come show off your puzzle prowess! 🎉

$40 per team (maximum 4 members per team)
Purchase tickets here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/minnesotadiscoverycenter/1617502?
Includes admission to the museum for team members 🏛️
Each team gets to keep the puzzle they finish 🧩
Anyone accompanying a team must pay regular admission
Anyone competing or paying admission can also join in the Puzzle Swap

Each team will have 90 minutes to complete a 500-piece puzzle 🧩. The first team to finish wins! 🏆 If no team finishes, the team with the fewest leftover pieces will win 🥇. All teams will work on the same puzzle.
Puzzle Swap:
Before the competition begins, bring in puzzles you’ve already completed (re-boxed) and swap them for something new! 🔄
Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase 🍪🥤
Maximum of 15 teams.
Come join the fun and see who can puzzle their way to victory! 🎉

Family Discovery Day: Fossils X3!
2025-03-29 11:00 - 16:00 | MN
Time: 11:00am-4:00pmSpecial Speaker Session: 4:30-5:30pm [MDC Theater]

Cost: Free admission for MDC members.
Regular admission fees apply for non members. (No extra charge for the event! 🎟️)

Bring the whole family for a day of dino fun and fossil-filled discoveries! We’ll have real fossils from the Iron Range on display — perfect for little paleontologists and curious explorers alike! This year, we’ve got something extra special — VR headsets that transport you straight to the Cretaceous period! And for the tiniest paleontologists (ages 3 and up), we’ve set up a special fossil play station where they can get their hands dirty while learning all about the ancient creatures that once roamed the Earth.

The day will wrap up with an exciting presentation by St. Cloud State University’s Professor Sarah Gibson from 4:30pm to 5:30pm. Professor Gibson, a passionate paleontologist specializing in prehistoric fish and Minnesota fossils, will share her fascinating insights. Don’t miss it in MDC’s Theater!

We’ll also be serving up some great food including dino nuggets and cookies for a sweet prehistoric treat.

There’s something fun for all ages to enjoy. So grab your family, friends, and fellow fossil lovers and join us for an unforgettable day of dino fun!

Special guest presenters and displays from: Hill Annex Paleontology Project, Biwabik Mary Ellen Stone Co.

Cocktail Clueseum
2025-02-28 17:30 - 20:00 | MN
Get ready for a night of mystery and history at the Minnesota Discovery Center. Join us for an exciting murder mystery game set in the prohibition era.
Enjoy delicious drinks, tempting appetizers, and a fun-filled evening as you and your friends solve clues scattered throughout the museum to uncover who dunnit?
This event is 18+ and is perfect for any dress code, but feel free to channel your inner flapper or gangster and come in your best 1920s attire for extra flair!
Appetizers are included in your ticket price, with a cash bar available for drinks.
Event Details:
🕒 Social Hour: 5:30–6:30 PM
🕰️ Game: 6:30–8:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
$22 for non-members
$17 for members
Purchase Tickets Here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/minnesotadiscoverycenter/1587940?
Space is limited to 75 attendees, so be sure to grab your tickets before they’re gone!

Game Night
2025-02-20 17:00 - 20:00 | MN
When: Thursday,2/20

Time: 5:00-8:00pm Where: Minnesota Discovery Center (Dining Room)

We’re turning our dining room into the ultimate Game Night spot! Whether you’re a master strategist or just here for some laughs, there’s a game for you.

Here’s what we’ve got going on:

FREE ENTRY – No cost to play, and our museum is free every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm. A mix of card & board games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you are looking to play something specific! Our bar will be open with drinks to fuel your game face. Food will be available for purchase to keep your energy up. ALL AGES welcome! Just be sure little ones have an adult with them.

So grab your friends, family, or even that one friend who’s way too good at Uno. Spread the word – the more, the merrier!
