Student groups on Sacramento excursion won’t want to miss the riveting excitement of a day at Discovery Museum Science and Space Center! Open since 1951, this self-proclaimed dynamic regional hub engages and inspires visitors of all ages and walks to investigate the myriad wonders, possibilities, and responsibilities of modern science, tendering eager young scientists and fledgling space explorers hands-on learning opportunities through an extensive array of fascinating displays and fun and engaging permanent and rotating exhibits. In the Challenger Learning Center – an interactive space mission simulator consisting of a realistic Mission Control and Spacecraft – students assume the roles of astronauts, scientists and engineers and embark on their choice of three critical NASA mission scenarios. In Robotics Lab, they learn to assemble and program actual robots! The immersive experience of a real dig allows future archaeologists to work in teams using specific tools, methodology and technique to excavate awesome ancient relics left behind by fictional civilizations; twenty-minute star shows afford guests a dazzling introduction to the endless night sky over Sacramento in Northern California’s only public planetarium. Current exhibit, “Blast from the Past: Rockin’ Rocks & Diggin’ Dinos” lets you hear what rocks, crystals, fossils and other finds have to say about ancient life on Planet Earth. Lovers of all living things will truly enjoy the Nature Discovery Room, featuring indoor animal exhibits as well as fun and educational programs and activities specially tailored for children; meet the amazing creatures who live and play at the Discovery Science Center. Bring a lunch – once you’ve explored everything there is to see, head for the woods and relax in the serenity of a picnic area surrounded by 14 acres of native flora and fauna; don’t miss the butterfly garden!