Tommy Bartlett Exploratory facts for kids
The Tommy Bartlett Exploratory is an exciting attraction located in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. It's a hands-on science museum filled with over 150 interactive displays. This means you can touch, play with, and learn from everything there! It used to be connected to the famous Tommy Bartlett's Thrill Show, which was a popular water ski show. The Exploratory first opened its doors in 1982. Back then, it was called Tommy Bartlett's Robot World & Exploratory, but over time, many of the robot exhibits were changed or removed.
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Discover the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory
The Exploratory is a fantastic spot for anyone curious about how things work. You can explore different areas of science, from physics to illusions. It's designed to make learning fun and engaging for all ages.
A Journey Through Science
Inside the Exploratory, you'll find many unique exhibits. You can try to lift a car with one hand using simple machines. You might also experience what it feels like to be in a hurricane. There are also optical illusions that will trick your eyes and make you wonder. Each display helps you understand scientific principles in a memorable way.
From Robots to Space
When the Exploratory first opened, it had a big focus on robots. While many of those original robot displays are gone, the spirit of discovery remains. A very special exhibit at the Exploratory is a real core module from Russia's Mir Space Station. In 1996, Tommy Bartlett himself bought this piece of space history. It's amazing to see a part of a real space station right here on Earth!
New Owners, Same Fun!
The Tommy Bartlett Exploratory, along with the Thrill Show, was sold on May 5, 2025. The new owner is Ripley's Believe It or Not. Ripley's is famous for its museums filled with strange and amazing facts. They plan to keep both the science museum and the waterfront show open for visitors. This means more fun and learning for everyone who visits Wisconsin Dells!
External links
- Tommy Bartlett Exploratory
