The Museum of Science & Innovation (MOSI) is where science comes to life through hands-on exploration. Instead of simply reading about space, engineering, weather, or technology, visitors are encouraged to experiment, build, solve problems, and interact with exhibits designed to make learning fun.
Located in North Tampa near the University of South Florida, MOSI combines interactive STEM exhibits, one of Florida’s largest planetariums, live demonstrations, and rotating exhibitions into an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re visiting with young children, curious teenagers, or adults who love science, there’s always something new to discover.
MOSI is home to the Saunders Planetarium, featuring an 8K digital dome theater that creates one of Florida’s most immersive astronomy and space exploration experiences.
Quick Facts
- Best For: Families, students, science enthusiasts, and curious minds
- Time Needed: 2 to 4 hours
- Known For: Interactive STEM exhibits and the Saunders Planetarium
- Location: North Tampa
- Recommended Age: All ages, especially children ages 5–14
- Indoor Attraction: Great for rainy or hot Florida days
Top Experiences
- Saunders Planetarium – Watch immersive astronomy shows beneath one of Florida’s largest digital dome theaters.
- Mission: Moonbase – Discover what life and work on the Moon could look like through interactive exhibits.
- CONNECTUS – Build, experiment, and solve engineering challenges through hands-on STEM activities.
- Weather Quest – Learn how hurricanes, lightning, and severe weather affect Florida.
- Traveling Exhibits – Explore rotating exhibitions that bring new experiences throughout the year.
- Live Science Demonstrations – Watch educational presentations that make science entertaining and easy to understand.
Things to Do
- Explore interactive science exhibits
- Watch a planetarium show
- Launch rockets, build structures, and solve engineering challenges
- Learn about space, technology, and the natural world
- Experience rotating exhibitions
- Attend live demonstrations and educational programs
Why Visit the Museum of Science & Innovation?
MOSI transforms science into something visitors can touch, test, and experience. Rather than simply reading information, you’ll solve problems, conduct experiments, and interact with exhibits that make complex scientific ideas engaging and easy to understand.
Its combination of educational experiences and hands-on fun makes it one of Tampa’s best attractions for families, homeschool groups, students, and anyone who enjoys discovering how the world works.
Perfect For
- Families with school-age children
- Science lovers
- Students
- Homeschool groups
- Rainy-day activities
- Visitors looking for educational attractions
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings are often the least crowded. Plan extra time if you’d like to experience both the planetarium and several of the museum’s interactive exhibits.
Visitor Tip
Check the daily planetarium schedule before you arrive so you can plan your visit around your preferred show. Many visitors organize the rest of their museum experience around these presentations.
Good to Know
- Most exhibits encourage hands-on participation.
- Many exhibits are designed to be touched, tested, and explored.
- The museum is fully indoors and air-conditioned.
- Planetarium shows may require separate admission.
- Special exhibitions change throughout the year.
- Educational programs are offered regularly.
- Allow extra time if you plan to visit both the museum and the planetarium.
Hours
Hours vary throughout the week and during holidays. Always check the official MOSI website before your visit.
Pricing
Admission varies by age and exhibit access. Planetarium shows, special exhibitions, and select experiences may require an additional ticket.
Parking
Free on-site parking is available for museum visitors.
Looking for More STEM & Discovery?
If you enjoy science, technology, engineering, and discovery, continue exploring Glazer Children’s Museum, The Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, or Dinosaur World.
Nearby Things to Do
The Museum of Science & Innovation is located in North Tampa near Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island, iFLY Indoor Skydiving Tampa, the University of South Florida, and numerous attractions throughout the Uptown Tampa area.