Overnights FAQ
What is an overnight?
An overnight at the Museum of Science is a special program that inspires children to discover science in an entertaining, educational, and interactive way. This program includes a variety of hands-on science activities, science demonstrations, an Omni show, and time to explore the Museum with chaperones. Instructors facilitate fun science activities that enhance Museum exhibits.
Who can participate?
This program is available to organizations and schools serving children in grades 1 - 7. We do not book private groups or individuals.
How do I register?
Registration is handled through organizations like Girl Scout councils, Cub Scout councils, schools, churches, community groups, and youth groups. Agencies may contact the Overnight Program office at 617-589-0350. Girl Scout troops and Cub Scout packs should contact their local council for dates and registration information.
What should participants bring?
Each participant should bring an indoor sleeping bag, and air mattresses are recommended for adults. The Museum is big, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Plan to dress in layers for activities and sleeping so that you can regulate your own comfortable temperature. Participants may wish to bring money to shop at the Museum Store.
What are the Overnight Program hours?
Check-in is 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. Scheduled activities begin as early as 6:45 p.m. and conclude at 11:00 a.m. the following day. Groups are welcome to stay and explore the Exhibit Halls after the Overnight Program ends.
Can I park overnight at the Museum of Science, and how much does it cost?
Yes, Overnight Program participants may park on levels 2-5 of the Museum garage overnight. Participants pay a flat rate of $5 per car from 4:00 p.m. until noon; if you arrive before 4:00 p.m. or stay later than 12:00 p.m. the following day, regular parking rates will apply.
Where do I go when I arrive?
Participants should bring their gear to the lowest level of the garage and look for the special Overnight Program entrance. Groups will be directed to store gear in their designated space and proceed to registration.
What if my group is arriving by bus?
Buses should pull into the Museum of Science driveway and wait for directions from a Museum staff member.
Can my group take public transportation?
Yes. The Museum is across the street from the Science Park stop on the MBTA Green Line. It is about a 20-minute walk from North Station (Green Line, Orange Line, Amtrak, Commuter Rail).
Is food included in the Overnight Program?
An evening snack and a light breakfast are provided during the overnight. Participants may purchase dinner in the Riverview Café, eat before they arrive, or bring dinner with them to eat in the designated picnic area. Participants can also purchase one of our special Overnight Program Dinner Deals from Wolfgang Puck Catering. Learn more about our food options.
Will my group earn a scout badge or cover specific school curriculum?
Overnight programming is not geared to any one scout badge or to specific school curriculum. Everyone will participate in a variety of science activities. These activities satisfy many requirements for select science, math, engineering, and technology curriculum or badges.
Where do we sleep?
Participants sleep on the floor throughout the Museum Exhibit Halls. Some surfaces are industrial carpet, others are tile, and all are hard. Air mattresses are welcome for adults (we have outlets to inflate them). Groups are pre-assigned a sleeping space.
When is lights out?
Midnight. Since the Museum is a large facility, please be patient as we turn off all the lights; it may take about 20 minutes.
Does it get dark after the lights go out?
For guest safety, some lights will remain on throughout the night. We are not able to adjust the emergency lighting during the overnight.
Does the Museum get cold at night?
The Museum is a very large, old building, and the temperature will vary from area to area. We recommend bringing layered clothing such as a t-shirt, shorts, and sweats, and a sleeping bag so that you can regulate your temperature to meet your comfort level.
Will the Museum store be open?
The Museum store opens daily at 10:00 a.m. and offers a variety of educational, souvenir, and gift items including an Overnight Program T-shirt.
What can I do with the embroidered patch I receive at the overnight?
The embroidered patch is a souvenir for both youth and adults. Each participant also receives a free Exhibit Halls pass for a return visit.
