The Bell Museum of Natural History is open late to celebrate art, science, and the natural world with special activities and guests!

Free with museum admission/membership

May 4: Colors

From the website:

Gallery Conversation — 5:30 – 6:30 pm: Gain unique perspectives on our special exhibits from artists and University of Minnesota experts in an engaging, informal gallery talk. Tour Hungry Planet: What the World Eats with Dr. Paul Porter, professor in Agronomy and Plant Genetics. Porter has biked across parts of Africa and South America to look at agriculture, and will discuss how and where we produce what that the world eats, and why he feels the challenge of feeding the world in the future is less challenging than many are led to believe. 

Sketch Night — 6:30 – 8:30 pm: Explore your creative side—whether you're an accomplished illustrator, casual hobbyist, or budding artist. Gather to draw, color or craft a variety of themed specimens that are often tucked away safely in the Bell's vaults! Our theme for the evening is flowers & fruits. We'll have a wide selection of specimens on hand including many tropical fruits and flowers, and have a paper flower making station. Get a jump on spring!

ExploraDome shows — 5:30 – 7:00 pm: You decied where to go—anywhere in the observable universe. Stop in anytime (or several times) during our ExploraDome Open House and sample the experience on us.

Stargazing with MIfA — 7:00 – 9:30 pm: Special presentations from the Minnesota Institute for Astrophysics are followed by outdoor telescope observations (weather permitting) at 7:30 pm. The presentation will go on rain or shine! The presentation and stargazing are free, but regular admission fees apply for other After Hours activities.