Visiting the Tellus Science Museum

Last Updated on December 27, 2024 by Kimberly Stroh

We went to the Tellus Science Museum in Cartersville with our three-year-old son, JP. I have to admit, at first I was skeptical about a museum offering enough activities for his age group. We spent the afternoon exploring everything the museum had to offer and found so much excitement for his age group.

The biggest reason for our trip, and the first thing we experienced at the Tellus, was the dinosaurs at the Fossil Gallery. The kids are blown away by the exhibit, which even showcases a fossilized T-Rex (JP’s favorite) named Stan. Another favorite of ours was the Georgia Underwater Exhibit which features fossils native to our state!

 

For hands-on science exploration, the Tellus Museum offers a permanent kid’s exhibit called “My Big Backyard”. This is by far any kid’s favorite experience at the museum. It’s like a cool indoor playground for kids to discover and explore science experiments. It’s a must-do engaging experience for kids of all ages. JP had such a great time learning about weather, magnets and even centrifugal force.

Sadly, I was outnumbered and had to check out the Mineral Gallery by myself. There wasn’t as much for kids there, but we couldn’t pry JP from the “My Big Backyard” always. I enjoyed learning about the minerals that are native to Georgia. Moms… if you want to check out some major “bling”, this is the place.

Another kid favorite is the Fossil Dig and Gem Mining area. Kids can dig for real fossils to take home! They love carefully digging together for fossils. All of the kids were super focused. The Gem Mining lets the kids grab a pan and sift for gems. We made sure to help JP with this fun activity since he was a little young, but a museum employee graciously gave him some gems to take home.

The Tellus Science Museum also has a planetarium, solar house and an exhibit called “Science in Motion” that is all about transportation. Don’t hesitate to bring your young child to the Tellus Science Museum. We found plenty to do with a toddler and it was enjoyable for the whole family!

Tips For Visiting the Tellus Science Museum

• Bring a stroller for your child. Even though the museum offers so much for the kids, its best to bring the stroller for parts of the museum that aren’t hands-on. The Mineral exhibit and the “Science in Motion” exhibit are fun to look at with the little ones, but aren’t hands-on.
• Bring a change of clothes. Young kids can get wet while panning for gems. Bring a change of clothes for them, especially if you’re traveling.
• Pack a lunch. The museum offers food, at their cafe, but you can pack a lunch for a picnic.
• Call ahead for special events and planetarium times.
• Parking is free. They also offer electronic fuel stations!
• Kids under 3 are FREE.