Join the National Museum of Natural History on Tuesdays for special family play dates with museum educators!

Play Date at NMNH is a drop-in program designed for early learners and their caregivers and families. Activities are designed with early learners in mind, but all ages are welcome.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Aug 25, 2026
From These Lands
Learn about different mineral science specimens highlighted in the new exhibit as well as some minerals and volcanic rock from our education collection. Families will be able to explore through play, art-making, and storytelling. Learn more.

Sept 1, 2026
Animal Spotlight – Bison!
Families can celebrate our national mammal by making observations of bison specimens from our education collection, learn about ways they help their ecosystem, and explore how bison have been portrayed in art. Learn more.

Sept 8, 2026
Volcanic Explorations
Families will learn about different types of lava flow, create their own lava-flow-inspired volcano artwork, and look up close at Igneous rock specimens (rocks that are formed when magma or lava cools and solidifies) from the museum’s collection. Learn more.

Sept 15, 2026
Megalodon Day!
Learn about this ancient shark that used to roam the ocean, make our own wearable artwork inspired by Megalodon teeth, and have the chance to hold a real Megalodon tooth! Learn more.

Sept 22, 2026
Dive into the Deep Sea
Learn about some of the unique animals that have adapted to live in the deep sea, make artwork inspired by the deep sea, and have the chance to see specimens that once lived at the bottom of the ocean! Learn more.

Play Dates are free; details at link below.