Santa Barbara, California, is known for its stunning coastal views, vibrant culture, and a plethora of attractions. Among these, the MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, stands out as a must-visit destination for families, educators, and curious minds of all ages. This blog post will delve into the fascinating world of MOXI, offering insights into its history, what to expect during your visit, and tips to make the most of your experience.
A Brief History of MOXI
MOXI opened its doors to the public in February 2017, but the vision for this interactive museum was set into motion much earlier. The idea was conceived in the early 2000s by a group of passionate individuals who wanted to create a space where science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) could come to life. Their goal was to inspire and ignite a love for learning in children and adults alike. The museum is named after Michael Towbes, a prominent philanthropist, and his wife Anne, who played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to reality.
Interactive Exhibits and Zones
The museum’s design is both innovative and inviting, with three floors of hands-on exhibits and activities divided into various thematic zones. Each zone is meticulously crafted to encourage exploration and creativity.
1- The Innovation Workshop
Here, visitors can engage in DIY projects, use real tools, and experiment with different materials. It’s a space designed to foster creativity and problem-solving skills, perfect for budding inventors and tinkerers.
2- The Fantastic Forces Courtyard
This outdoor area allows visitors to explore the principles of physics through large-scale installations. From a hand-powered pulley chair to a mesmerizing whirlpool, the Fantastic Forces Courtyard provides a dynamic environment for understanding the forces that shape our world.
3- Light, Speed, and Sound
On the second floor, this zone invites visitors to delve into the science behind light, speed, and sound. Interactive displays, such as the Color Mixing Machine and the Reactable, offer hands-on experiences that make complex concepts accessible and fun.
4- The Rooftop Sky Garden
The third-floor rooftop Sky Garden is a quiet, outdoor place with stunning views of the city, mountains, and ocean. It’s an ideal spot to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries.
Planning Your Visit
MOXI is located at 125 State Street in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, an area known for its artistic vibe, wineries, and restaurants. The museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, but is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: $20
- Children (3-17): $15
- Children under 2: Free
Parking: MOXI has two accessible parking spaces behind the building off Kimberly Street. Additional accessible spaces are available in City Lot #13 at the train station, adjacent to MOXI.
To make the most of your visit, plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the exhibits. For a quieter experience, visit on Wednesdays or towards the end of the afternoon. Mornings during the school year and summer months, as well as school breaks, tend to be the busiest times due to school group field trips and family visits. Sunday mornings can also be a peaceful time to explore.
Tips for a Great Visit
- Arrive Early: Mornings tend to be less crowded, giving you more space to explore and engage with the exhibits.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: With three floors to explore, you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking and standing.
- Food and Drink: Food and beverages are not available or allowed in the museum. However, you can bring a water bottle or use the water fountains available on each floor. If you get hungry, you can leave and re-enter the museum later.
- Accessibility: MOXI abides by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), allowing service animals trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities into all public areas of the museum. However, comfort animals, therapy animals, companion animals, or emotional support animals are not permitted.
Special Events and Rentals
MOXI is not just for day visits; it’s also a fantastic venue for special events. You can host birthday parties at MOXI, offering nonstop fun, discovery, and learning with full access to museum exhibits, a self-guided scavenger hunt, stickers for the whole group, and a special T-shirt and MOXI laser-cut birthday crown for the birthday kid. Additionally, MOXI is a unique setting for weddings and other significant events. You can say “I do” at MOXI with a wedding ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner, or welcome reception, ensuring a memorable experience in a creative environment.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Santa Barbara, the MOXI Museum offers a unique and enriching experience that combines learning with fun. Its hands-on exhibits, creative workshops, and engaging zones make it a perfect destination for families, educators, and anyone with a curious mind. Plan your visit today and dive into the world of exploration and innovation at MOXI.
