The Discovery: Where Science, Imagination, and Adventure Converge in Northern Nevada

by Patrick Turner, The Discovery

There’s only one place in Northern Nevada where you can rub elbows with a 25-foot Allosaurus, explore the future of renewable energy, and splash in a working model of the Truckee River, all under one roof! Since its opening in 2011, the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum has captured the imaginations of visitors of all ages, offering a rich tapestry of both temporary and permanent exhibitions across 67,000 square feet of interactive space.

A Kaleidoscope of Ever-changing Exhibits

While the museum features 12 cornerstone exhibits, they are anything but static. These installations evolve over time, promising new experiences even for frequent visitors. Whether you're intrigued by the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, the intricacies of human anatomy, or the possibilities of renewable energy, The Discovery has an exhibit designed to inspire your curiosity.

The Power of Renewable Energy

One of the museum’s newest exhibits, Energy/Energía, made its debut in May 2022. Generously funded by a grant from Tesla, this exhibit shines a light on the future of energy through more than 18 hands-on experiences. From energy storage solutions to sustainable consumption, the exhibit illustrates the promising innovations that could reshape our global energy landscape.

Discover Your Inner Leonardo

Da Vinci's Corner is not just another exhibit; it's a playground for the curious mind. This immersive space invites guests to experience the world through the eyes of one of history's greatest minds. Hands-on experiments and engaging displays unlock the captivating nuances of everyday life that once fascinated Leonardo da Vinci himself.

Explore the Wonders of Human Anatomy

The Inside Out: An Anatomy Experience exhibit offers a look into the complexities of the human body. Through both digital and interactive displays, visitors journey through the many facets of human anatomy—how we grow, heal, and age. The exhibit equips you with surprising insights and empowers you to delve further into what makes us uniquely human.

A Glimpse into the Age of Dinosaurs

The museum's most recent and awe-inspiring feature might just be its 25-foot-long Allosaurus cast. A prehistoric predator armed with razor-sharp claws and dagger-like teeth, this meticulously constructed cast serves as both an educational tool and a window into an ancient world long gone.

Featured Exhibit: Monster Fish

In addition to its permanent installations, The Discovery periodically welcomes temporary exhibitions. The museum’s current featured exhibition is Monster Fish: In Search of the Last River Giants. Spanning 6,000 square feet, this immersive experience introduces you to over 20 species of fish measuring six feet or longer and weighing more than 200 pounds that roam our planet's freshwater habitats. Based on the groundbreaking research by Dr. Zeb Hogan, a Research Associate Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, and National Geographic Explorer, the exhibit is an eye-opening adventure into the world of giant fish.

The Discovery is located at 490 S. Center Street in downtown Reno. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Additionally, the museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. All exhibitions are included with museum admission, which is $13 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $11 for children. After 4 p.m. Wednesdays, museum admission is $5 per person.