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Location
Visitor tip
Prioritize the Acheson Planetarium shows as a must-see highlight—reviews consistently praise them as immersive experiences that transport visitors across the galaxy. Plan your timing to catch at least one show during your visit.
Visitor tip
The exporeLAB and interactive touch exhibits (meteorites, mastodon fur) plus hands-on physics displays make this venue highly engaging for all ages. Every section offers something to touch, watch, and explore, making it particularly family-friendly.
Visitor tip
Don't miss the world-class Mineral Study Gallery with vibrant crystal specimens and the T-rex skeleton cast in the main hall—these are standout exhibits that justify the visit and appeal to both children and adults.
About Cranbrook Institute of Science
Natural science museum & planetarium. Natural history museum features a T. rex skeleton cast & planetarium among its interactive exhibits.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Science Center
- Highlights
- Interactive exhibits, T-rex skeleton, planetarium, observatory, meteorites, mastodon fur
- Admission
- General admission available; free first Friday of month
- Membership
- Yes available
What visitors say
Great! Had so much fun! The Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills is an absolute treasure! Walking into the main hall and seeing the massive T. rex skeleton cast immediately sets the tone for an incredible day of…
This is one of my favorite museums to frequent. It can be completed fairly quickly. Three hours is typically enough to see a show and all the exhibits. The shows are worth it; the Planetarium, the traveling exhibits, the explore lab in…
We loved this science museum. Very family friendly. Kind, patient, knowledgeable staff. Every section had something for my family to engage, explore, read, watch, touch, and learn. Excellent family experience!
From 2,041 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- The Acheson Planetarium features immersive shows including a Pink Floyd presentation, combining astronomy education with iconic music performances
- Visitors can physically touch meteorites and feel mastodon fur as part of hands-on interactive exhibits, creating direct sensory engagement with ancient natural history
- Free First Fridays program offers complimentary general admission on the first Friday of each month through December 2026, making science education accessible to the broader community
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