Please note our museum hours while we undergo renovations.
Museum HoursWed–Fri: 12:30pm–5pm | Sat: 10am–5pm

Finding clues, testing evidence, uncovering secrets—it’s all part of the game at this month’s mystery-themed First Friday!

Join us for a night of “whodunits” and solve a historical forensics murder mystery. We’ll gather clues around the museum in your detective’s notebook and test our answers against a panel of experts. Play matching games, tour a new rare book exhibition about the science of blood, and enjoy chills and thrills…if you dare!

About First Fridays

Spark your curiosity while exploring the exhibits after hours! First Fridays bring together a myriad of activities covering everyday science, historical oddities, and everything in between. Grab your friends, and kick off an evening of discovery, surprise, and a little nerdy fun.

First Fridays at the Institute are always free and open to the public. Attendees will receive a 10% discount to National Mechanics restaurant.

More events

illustration of farming scenes
May 10, 2025
For Families

Stories of Science: May Flowers

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

infant in a colorful cradle
May 12, 2025
Science on Tap

What Shapes Sleep: Biology, Culture, or Both?

Pediatric sleep expert Jodi Mindell highlights the striking cross-cultural similarities and differences in sleep habits around the world.

cover of comic book
May 17, 2025
Drop-In Tours

School Lunch Tour

This interactive drop-in tour reveals how food scientists, the government, and the public have shaped in-school nutrition.

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