Discovery Station

Nestled in the heart of downtown Hagerstown, Maryland, Discovery Station offers a vibrant blend of history, innovation, and interactive fun. This family-friendly museum is a beacon for curious minds, young and old, eager to explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). With its engaging exhibits and hands-on activities, Discovery Station promises an unforgettable adventure for all who enter its historic doors.

The Legacy of Discovery Station

Since its opening in 2005, Discovery Station has been a cornerstone of learning and exploration in Hagerstown. Housed in a historic bank building, the museum itself is a testament to the town's rich past. The building, with its striking white marble exterior and grand Palladian windows, was once home to a Federal Depository during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the old bank vault, marveling at its impressive leaded glass door and intricate mechanisms.

Interactive Exhibits

Discovery Station is renowned for its diverse range of exhibits, each designed to ignite curiosity and foster a love for learning. The Robotics and Coding exhibit invites guests to dive into the world of technology with LEGO MINDSTORMS® and Botley robots, offering a hands-on introduction to programming and robotics.

For those fascinated by the prehistoric, the Dinosaur Exhibit features a full-scale cast model of a Triceratops skull, alongside fossil tracings and interactive activities that bring the age of dinosaurs to life. Meanwhile, the Space and Beyond exhibit showcases a quarter-scale model of the NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft, sparking imaginations about the future of space exploration and the potential colonization of Mars.

Hands-On Learning

The museum's commitment to interactive education is evident in its hands-on exhibits. The Discovery Station Race Car Derby teaches visitors about kinetic and potential energy through a large-scale race car track, while the Builder's Nook allows budding engineers to construct bridges and towers with special blocks.

Aviation enthusiasts will be thrilled by the Hagerstown Aviation exhibit, which includes an experimental Papoose airplane and a child-friendly Cessna 150 cockpit, complete with working controls. The exhibit also features a 1/5 scale replica of the PT-19 trainer, a nod to the area's rich aviation history.

The Titanic Exhibit

One of the museum's most captivating attractions is the Titanic Exhibit. This stunning replica of the RMS Titanic, over fifteen feet in length, is one of the largest models of the legendary ship ever constructed. Built by Norman Little, the model boasts over a thousand portholes and authentic fittings, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the ill-fated vessel.

Sustainability and Creativity

In recent years, Discovery Station has expanded its focus to include sustainability and creativity. The Sustainability exhibit, opened in 2016, encourages visitors to explore renewable energy practices through hands-on activities related to recycling, solar energy, and more. Meanwhile, the STEAM Machine Art Exhibit, launched in 2017, merges art and science, inviting children to create crafts from recycled materials and explore their artistic talents.

Discovery Town and Little Sprouts Grocery Store

Discovery Town, an exhibit opened in 2019, emphasizes early childhood development with themed areas like a doctor's office, fire department, and playground. The Little Sprouts Grocery Store, also opened in 2019, focuses on nutrition and financial literacy, offering lifelike examples of food products and interactive checkout lanes to teach children about healthy eating and budgeting.

Engaging Programs

Discovery Station is not just about exhibits; it also offers a range of engaging programs. From STEAM Saturdays to hands-on Animal Encounters, the museum provides numerous opportunities for interactive learning. Story-Time sessions and coding challenges further enrich the educational experience, ensuring there's always something new to discover.

A Community Treasure

As a nonprofit organization, Discovery Station relies on community support and hosts several fundraisers each year, including the popular Taste of Vegas Casino Night and the Surgeons vs. Chefs pumpkin carving competition. These events not only support the museum's operations but also strengthen its ties to the local community.

In conclusion, Discovery Station is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant hub of exploration and education, where history meets innovation and learning is always an adventure. Whether you're a local or a visitor to Hagerstown, a trip to Discovery Station promises a day filled with discovery, creativity, and fun.