Science isn’t something you have to wait around to explore. For curious high schoolers and teens eager to explore more into how the world actually works, science museums are throwing open their virtual doors. No lines, no tickets, no weird museum smell. Just a few clicks, and you're walking through the story of flight, messing with gravity, or chatting up a robot like it’s no big deal. Late-night curiosity hits? Perfect. These online spaces are always open.
Whether you need inspiration for a school project or you’re just in one of those moods where you need to know how black holes even happen, these virtual museums deliver. We're talking interactive exhibits, DIY activities, behind-the-scenes peeks, all crafted for curious, slightly-chaotic brains like yours. So yeah, science just got easier to explore and way more fun. Get ready to discover 10 cool science museums that make learning fun, accessible, and totally unforgettable.
1. Science Museum of Minnesota (Saint Paul, USA)
The Science Museum of Minnesota offers a wealth of online resources including virtual STEM stories, at-home science activities, educator lessons for K-12, Omnitheater extras, and engaging science videos. Their digital offerings promote inclusivity and community health, and feature behind-the-scenes content with museum staff and scientists. The museum itself spans 8.5 acres and includes a giant domed Omnitheater, hands-on exhibits, and a Mississippi River gallery.
Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM and Friday–Saturday: 10 AM–8 PM.
2. Deutsches Museum (Munich, Germany)
As the world’s largest science and technology museum, the Deutsches Museum houses over 28,000 objects across 50 fields, including physics, chemistry, robotics, and aerospace. It offers interactive and multimedia tours, a planetarium, and even a reproduction of a prehistoric cave. Their free app provides virtual access to maps and exhibit information.
Hours: Daily 9 AM–5 PM.
3. Science Museum (London, UK)
London’s Science Museum offers a deep dive into space exploration, artificial intelligence, and the evolution of medicine. While its Wonderlab and IMAX 3D theatre remain big draws for in-person visitors, the online experience is just as engaging. Through Google Street View, you can roam the museum’s halls from wherever you are, browse over 325,000 fascinating objects, watch educational videos that actually hold your attention, and try out interactive activities and games. It’s less about scrolling, more about discovering.
Hours: Daily 10 AM–6 PM.
4. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (Washington, D.C., USA)
This museum is a dream spot for aviation and space fans, with iconic pieces like the original Wright Flyer and the Apollo 11 command module on display. Even from home, there's plenty to explore. Virtual tours let you wander the exhibits, interactive simulators give you a taste of flight, and educator guides help break it all down. There’s also an IMAX theatre for those who visit in person, plus the Udvar-Hazy Center where the massive Space Shuttle Discovery sits quietly, yet somehow still feels like it could launch any second.
Hours: Daily 10 AM–5:30 PM.
5. Exploratorium (San Francisco, USA)
Known for making science something you can actually touch, the Exploratorium packs over 600 interactive exhibits covering light, sound, motion, and how we experience the world around us. Its online space doesn’t fall short either. You’ll find virtual field trips, bite-sized “science snacks” that double as mini-experiments, and a bunch of helpful resources for educators or the just-plain-curious. The Tactile Dome and outdoor weather exhibits stand out in person, but even from home, the vibe is hands-on, a little weird, and seriously fun.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 10 AM–5 PM.
6. National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan, Tokyo, Japan)
Miraikan dives into the frontlines of science, with exhibits focused on robotics, AI, and space exploration that feel more future than present. Online, it offers virtual tours that walk you through sleek, high-tech spaces, plus live demos of ASIMO, the humanoid robot that moves a little too well. You can also interact with real-time Earth data through the glowing Geo-Cosmos LED globe, which kind of feels like holding the planet in your hands.
Hours: Wednesday–Monday: 10 AM–5 PM.
7. Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (Paris, France)
One of Europe’s biggest science hubs, this museum covers everything from physics and engineering to the wonders of biology. Its online offerings are solid too, with virtual tours that guide you through its massive halls, interactive games that sneak in learning, and videos that explain big ideas without getting boring. For those visiting in person, the planetarium and the VR zone add a whole different layer of energy to the place.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 9:15 AM–6 PM.
8. Ontario Science Centre (Toronto, Canada)
This interactive museum dives into space, biology, and environmental science, making complex topics feel approachable. Online, you can catch virtual science demonstrations, tap into educator resources, and explore digital exhibits at your own pace. When you visit in person, the Rainforest Experience and astronaut training simulator stand out as must-see attractions.
Hours: Wednesday–Monday: 10 AM–5 PM.
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