The Discovery – Reno, Nevada

Traveling along I-80 through Northern Nevada, you’ll see plenty of sagebrush, stunning mountain peaks, and the neon glow of Reno’s famous arches. But if you’re looking for a place to stretch your legs, engage your brain, and experience one of the finest cultural gems in the Silver State, there is one destination that stands above the rest: The Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, known affectionately by locals as The Discovery.

Whether you are traveling with a carload of energetic kids or you’re a solo traveler with a curious mind, The Discovery offers a refreshing break from the pavement. Located in the heart of downtown Reno-just a few minutes off the I-80 exit-this 67,000-square-foot science center is far more than just a “children’s museum.” It is a hands-on exploration of the world around us, specifically tailored to the unique geography and spirit of Nevada.

The Main Attractions: What Awaits Inside

The Discovery is packed with permanent and rotating exhibits that blend science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Here are the highlights you won’t want to miss:

The Cloud Climber

As soon as you walk through the doors, it’s impossible to miss the Cloud Climber. This three-story tall, multi-level jungle gym is a marvel of engineering. It allows visitors to “climb through the water cycle,” ascending through the clouds and learning about evaporation and precipitation as they go. It’s an absolute favorite for kids who have been strapped into a car seat for hours, but it’s also a striking piece of architecture for adults to admire.

Truckee Connects

Since you’re traveling through the region, you’ve likely noticed the Truckee River winding its way alongside I-80. At the Truckee Connects exhibit, you can see a massive, working scale model of the entire river system, from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake. You can move dams, create floods, and power miniature turbines. It is a fascinating look at how water-the most precious resource in the desert-is managed in Northern Nevada.

Spark!Lab Smithsonian

The Discovery is one of only a handful of museums in the country to host a Spark!Lab Smithsonian. This area is all about the process of invention. Instead of following instructions to build a specific kit, you are given a challenge and a bin of parts. It’s a space where “failing” is just part of the fun, encouraging visitors of all ages to think like inventors and solve real-world problems.

Inside Out

Ever wonder what’s going on inside your own body? Inside Out takes you on a journey through human anatomy and health. You can see a real human heart, test your reaction times, and learn how the choices we make every day affect our physical well-being. It’s high-tech, slightly quirky, and incredibly educational.

Nevada Stories

This exhibit is a love letter to the Silver State. It explores the people, the wildlife, and the industry that shaped Nevada. You can explore a mock mine, learn about the indigenous peoples of the Great Basin, and see how the “Biggest Little City” grew from a small river crossing into a bustling hub of innovation.

The Details

Address:
The Discovery
490 South Center Street
Reno, Nevada 89501
Telephone: 775-786-1000
Website: https://nvdm.org/

Hours of Operation:
Monday – 10:00am – 5:00pm*
Tuesday – 10:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday – 10:00am – 8:00pm
Thursday – 10:00am – 5:00pm
Friday – 10:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday – 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday – 10:00am – 5:00pm
*Open Mondays from Memorial Day to Labor Day, on state and national holidays, and during WCSD breaks. Visit the calendar of events for details.

Admission:
Adults (18-65): $!6.00
Youth (6-17): $14.00
Child (1-5): $11.00
Infants (under 1): Free
Seniors (65+): $15.00
UNR & TMCC Students: Free

Directions:
From I-80 East
Exit at N. Sierra Street (Exit 13) and turn right, heading south. Drive approximately 1 mile and turn left on Liberty Street, heading east. Drive three blocks and turn right, heading south, on Sinclair Street. Enter parking lot immediately on the right.
From I-80 West
Exit at N. Virginia Street (Exit 13) and proceed to N. Sierra Street. Turn left on N. Sierra, heading south. Drive approximately 1 mile and turn left on Liberty Street, heading east. Drive three blocks and turn right, heading south, on Sinclair Street. Enter parking lot immediately on the right.

Why It’s a Great Stop for I-80 Travelers

Driving I-80 can be a marathon. The stretch through the Great Basin is beautiful, but it requires focus and patience. Stopping at The Discovery provides the perfect “brain break.”

For families, it is a lifesaver. It allows children to engage their muscles and their minds in a safe, climate-controlled environment. For adults and couples, the museum offers a sophisticated look at regional science and history that you simply won’t find at a rest stop or a gas station.

Furthermore, the museum is located in a vibrant part of Reno. After your visit, you can walk two blocks to the Riverwalk District for lunch, or grab a coffee at one of the many artisanal shops nearby. It transforms a simple “gas and food” stop into a memorable highlight of your entire road trip.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

• Pack a Change of Clothes for the Kids: The Truckee Connects water table is incredibly fun, but even with the provided smocks, kids often end up a little damp. Having a dry set of clothes back in the car will make the next leg of your I-80 drive much more comfortable.
• Check the “Social Science” Calendar: If you happen to be passing through on a select Thursday evening, check if they are hosting “Social Science.” These are 21+ themed nights where adults can explore the museum with a cocktail in hand, enjoy live music, and participate in advanced workshops without the daytime crowds.
• Validate Your Parking: Reno’s downtown parking can occasionally be tricky, but The Discovery offers a dedicated parking lot for visitors. Be sure to bring your license plate number to the front desk so they can help you register your vehicle for free or discounted parking while you explore the exhibits.

Final Thoughts

The Discovery is a testament to the fact that Reno is much more than just a gaming destination. It is a center for curiosity and community. As you navigate the long stretches of I-80, do yourself a favor and take the downtown Reno exit. Spend a couple of hours at The Discovery, and you’ll return to the road feeling refreshed, enlightened, and ready for whatever lies over the next mountain pass.

Safe travels, and enjoy the discovery!

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