Museum of Discovery and Science - Fort Lauderdale

 How long has it been since I last visited the Museum of Discovery and Science? Well since it's doubled in size since my last visit, I would say too long. Sure I've been in the area for the IMAX movie theater, Sunday Jazz Brunch, Glam Doll Strut, and other events but I have not set foot inside the museum since my daughter informed me she was too old to go anymore.

I don't know how that's possible. I still love to play with all the interactive exhibits. Fifteen years ago, most everything was mechanical. A lot of that is still there but every area has been updated with new displays, entirely new exhibit rooms, interactive computer touch screens, and simulator rides. There is also a  full size elephant and giant shark.

Clock

I was not totally sure they would let me play with all the exhibits by myself so I borrowed a couple of kids to be safe. Even so, I had plenty of play time. Memories of past visits with my daughter came flooding back. I remember different items she would concentrate on over the many years and visits as she grew up. One year it was soap bubbles. The next, staring in wonder at the visible escalator. My loaner kids were glued to the window where the otters played like it was an episode of Sponge Bob Square Pants. My personal fascination is the gigantic, mechanical clock that tells time with multicolored bowling balls. At certain times, a whole slew of them are released to clatter along a complex racetrack that fills the entire entrance courtyard. Yes, there have been times when I've grabbed a lunch and waited for the clock to pass the noon hour putting everything in motion.

Otter Pool 

Clyde Butcher

So what prompted this visit? Was I having some sort of second childhood episode? No. Actually I went to see a presentation by Clyde Butcher. If you have been in South Florida for any length of time, you have heard the name and/or seen his work. If you have never heard the name, then click on it above and get introduced. Mr. Butcher is a fine art photographer who has made a career of standing waist deep in the swampy waters of the Everglades to bring the tremendous beauty to your local art gallery or living room. His use of a rare and ancient, large format camera allows him to capture photos of astounding clarity printed to enormous sizes. Clyde spoke with great passion about the destruction of the Everglades and the anemic measures being taken to repair the damage. I wonder, if it was not for him and a very few like him, would the Everglades have been seen as anything other than a wasteland to be drained and paved over? Clyde offers Swamp Walks to the public at his studio from time to time. There is no better way to get close to nature than walking in it up to your knees.

The Museum of Discovery and Science is an excellent destination to introduce your children to science and discover a day's worth of fun for the whole family.