





Children's Museums
Tommy Bartlett Exploratory
📍 560 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965🌐 www.ripleys.com/attractions/tommy-bartlett-exploratory
🕐 Hours
| Monday | 10 AM–4 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 10 AM–4 PM |
About Tommy Bartlett Exploratory
Seasonal extreme water-ski & boat show. Long-running water-ski & boat show featuring extreme stunts & comedy during the summer. Tommy Bartlett Exploratory was originally called 'Robot World' in the 1990s and featured a C3PO-like robot greeter that provided visitors with an introduction to the exhibits. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,477 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Science Center
- Best For
- All ages
- Location
- Wisconsin Dells
- Experience
- Interactive exhibits across multiple buildings and floors
- Hours
- 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
💡 Did You Know?
- Tommy Bartlett Exploratory was originally called 'Robot World' in the 1990s and featured a C3PO-like robot greeter that provided visitors with an introduction to the exhibits
- The attraction combines both an interactive science exploratory with a seasonal extreme water-ski and boat show featuring stunt performances and comedy
- The exploratory features a hands-on exhibit that allows visitors to lift a car by themselves, demonstrating physics principles
- Visitors can spend 3-4 hours exploring multiple buildings and floors with interactive science experiments, optical illusions, simulator rides, and robot exhibits
💬 What Visitors Say
- Plan to spend 2-4 hours exploring multiple buildings and floors. Start by asking staff about the recommended exhibit order at ticket purchase, as the layout can be confusing for first-time visitors and even returning guests.
- If visiting with young children (ages 5+), prioritize hands-on interactive science experiments and the water show - these consistently engage kids for extended periods. Children often want to stay longer than parents expect.
- This venue is ideal if you have free or discounted tickets (such as from resort packages), but consider your budget carefully for full-price admission given that many exhibits show wear and some are non-functional. Free ticket promotions make it worthwhile.
- The exhibits have significant nostalgic and educational value related to retro technology and science fundamentals. Each interactive station includes scientific explanations of the principles demonstrated, making it a solid hands-on learning experience despite the dated appearance.
- Check hours before visiting and review parking information on the website beforehand. Hand sanitizer stations are available throughout the facility.
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