Explore Hands-On, STEM-Based Projects with Your Family
Science, technology, engineering and math are at the heart of making things. The Science Museum’s permanent makerspace, The Forge, harnesses the power of the maker movement and encourages guests to roll up their sleeves and create!
The Forge is a cross-generational makerspace for guests of all ages. Come work together to create solutions and tap into your creativity.
Spark Inspiration
Featuring both a showroom and workshop, The Forge is designed to facilitate the creative process, spark inspiration, and instill the idea that anything is possible.
The WestRock Gallery displays inventive regional products, interactive stations (such as a 500 multi-colored programmable lighting piece), and introduces guests to innovative tools and materials. Additionally, the centerpiece of the space is a large welding robot, taught to draw, that creates masterful artistic renditions right before your eyes!
At the heart of The Forge is our workshop comprising the Sharp Design Studio, workroom and machine shop. This space is equipped with quality traditional tools and the latest technologies like CNC routers, 3D printers, a laser cutter and much more. This space allows guests a deeper exploration into STEM and making by giving them the chance to participate in hands-on workshops that emphasize tool utilization and skill development.
The Forge Activity Choices
Workshops will be held Tuesday - Saturday at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Maker Workshops are longer, 45-minute experiences led by Forge Facilitators. These project-based workshops result in a take-home item and are limited to 12 participants. All participants must be 8+ or 11+ , depending on the workshop. Additionally, participants under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Please refer to each workshop's details for more information regarding age requirements and skills/tools used during our workshops.
Advance registration is required for all guests including members. You can add a Forge Workshop to your visit for free after you've added Science Museum admission to your online cart. Click here to get started. You can also register in person at the Guest Services desk, subject to availability. Reserving your space in advance of your visit is the best way to ensure you can participate. See the Workshop schedule at the top of this page or the Science Museum's full schedule of programming.
Open Making is held each Sunday at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Open Making is available to members only and requires reservations.
Members, it’s time to make! Utilize a membership perk, bring your supplies, and flex your creative muscles. Click below to learn more or reserve your spot.
Maker Challenges are held daily, from 10 a.m.–noon and 3:30–5 p.m., except for the following dates: November 3, 10, 17 and 24.
Special note: Maker Challenge hours will end at 4:30 p.m. on November 8 and 15.
Stop by the Forge anytime during Maker Challenge hours! No registration is required and you can stay for 15 minutes or the entire duration of the challenge – it's up to you! These open-exploration engineering and design challenges are designed for learners of all ages!
Use your creativity and critical thinking skills to build a solution to the a new challenge each month. And on your next visit, challenge yourself to create an even better solution. See our Maker Challenge schedule at the top of this page or see the Science Museum's full schedule of programming.
Explore Our Teens-Only Makerspace
Contact the Museum Maker Team
