Daily Activities and Shows
Catch a Science Show, head to the STEAM Cave to build and experiment, or gather for Story Time and an activity inspired by the book. Programs are offered throughout the day, with activities changing each month.
Check with our front desk when you arrive for that day’s program times.
Science Shows
Watch science bubble, fizz, fly, and surprise you at the Science Showplace. OCM educators take the stage for live experiments and demonstrations that invite kids to make predictions, watch what happens, and ask why.
Science Shows are offered multiple times each day, with a new show or theme featured each month.
STEAM Activities
Build it. Test it. Try something different. Staff-led activities in the STEAM Cave give kids a chance to experiment with science, technology, engineering, art, and math. They might erupt a volcano, complete a circuit to light a bulb, or make splatter art using centripetal force.
STEAM activities change each month, giving kids new ways to create, experiment, and explore.
Story Time
Settle in for a story, then continue the adventure with a staff-led activity inspired by the book. Each activity gives kids a chance to create, make connections, or explore the story in a new way.
A new book and activity are featured each month.
Special Exhibit Activities
Special exhibits bring even more activities to the daily schedule. Look for activities inspired by our current exhibits that give kids new ways to explore and connect with what they experience in the exhibit.
This Month at OCM
Science Show: Interstellar Science Spectacular
Science Showplace | First Floor
Calling all future astronauts and space explorers! Prepare for an interstellar adventure as we explore the wonders of space through exciting science experiments and demonstrations. Discover the science behind our universe while sparking curiosity about the world beyond Earth. Join us in the Science Showplace for an out-of-this-world learning experience!
Kitchen ABCs: Pumpkin Pancakes
Curiosity Room
Something delicious is cooking at OCM! This month, young chefs will practice essential kitchen skills, including measuring ingredients, as they create their own pumpkin pancakes. Kitchen ABCs combines hands-on learning with the fun of preparing food, giving children the opportunity to build confidence and explore new skills in the kitchen.
Space is limited. Free tickets are available near the front desk.
STEAM Power: Out-of-This-World Adventures
STEAM Cave | Science Center
The universe is full of possibilities, and we’re exploring them one discovery at a time! This month, STEAM Power takes young explorers on a journey through space with hands-on activities inspired by planets, moons, and the mysteries of our solar system.
Discover what life might be like on Mars and design a Martian suited to its environment, investigate the crust of a mystery planet, and embark on an adventure to the moon. Each activity encourages children to experiment, create, and think critically using science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
Story Time Adventures
Día de los Muertos
November 1–5 | Family Discovery Room, Imagination Playground
Join us for a special Story Time Adventures celebrating Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. Through storytelling, children will be introduced to the traditions and cultural significance of this holiday, which honors and remembers loved ones who have passed away.
Along the way, young learners will discover new vocabulary and explore how stories help us understand and celebrate different cultures and traditions.
National Native American Heritage Month
November 6–25 | Family Discovery Room, Imagination Playground
In recognition of National Native American Heritage Month, Story Time Adventures will explore the cultures, traditions, and knowledge of Indigenous Peoples of the Heartland.
Through engaging stories, children will learn about agricultural practices used by some Indigenous communities and discover traditional stories connected to the constellations. This special programming encourages curiosity, cultural appreciation, and a deeper understanding of the people and traditions that are part of our region’s history.
Special Exhibit Programming: Super Sports Squared
Super Sports Squared: Sports + Math
Super Sports Squared Exhibit | Second Floor
Sports and math are a winning combination! Discover how numbers, movement, and problem-solving work together through interactive activities in our Super Sports Squared exhibit.
Children will put their thinking skills to the test while exploring the connection between physical activity and math. It’s an opportunity to exercise both the brain and body through playful learning.
Super Sports Squared: Turkey Trot
Super Sports Squared Exhibit | Second Floor
Get ready to move, jump, and gobble your way through our Turkey Trot obstacle course! This seasonal activity invites children to test their agility, coordination, and movement skills as they navigate a playful series of physical challenges.
Whether they’re hopping, balancing, or racing toward the finish, little athletes will enjoy an active adventure that encourages movement and learning through play.