Museum of Science & Innovation: Where Science Comes to Life

If you think museums are nothing more than display cases filled with artifacts and "Do Not Touch" signs, the Museum of Science & Innovation (MOSI) in Tampa will quickly change your mind. One of Florida's largest science centers, MOSI is designed to be hands-on, allowing visitors to experiment, explore, and discover scientific principles through interactive experiences.

The History of MOSI

MOSI's story began in 1962 with the opening of the Museum of Science and Natural History in Tampa. In 1980, the museum relocated to its current campus, and in 1982 it was renamed the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI).

For decades, it was recognized as one of the country's leading science centers, featuring a giant IMAX theater, numerous themed exhibits, a ropes course, a planetarium, and dozens of interactive displays.

Following a challenging period in the late 2010s, the museum underwent a major transformation, shifting its focus toward interactive learning, emerging technologies, and immersive experiences. A new digital dome theater was introduced, and in 2026 the institution officially became the Museum of Science & Innovation, while keeping the familiar MOSI acronym. The new name better reflects the museum's modern mission of inspiring curiosity through science, technology, and innovation.

What to See at MOSI

Saunders Planetarium

One of the museum's signature attractions is the state-of-the-art Saunders Planetarium, housed inside a massive digital dome theater. Visitors can enjoy immersive presentations featuring journeys through the Solar System, shows about black holes, galaxies, and the universe, as well as special laser light shows set to music by popular artists.

It is considered one of the largest planetariums in Florida.

Interactive Exhibits

Unlike a traditional museum, nearly everything at MOSI is designed to be explored through hands-on interaction. Visitors can perform physics experiments, discover how electricity works, explore robotics, test engineering concepts, and even build their own inventions in creative maker spaces.

Be sure to visit the museum's STEM zones, where complex scientific concepts are brought to life through engaging games and interactive activities.

Mission: Moonbase

One of MOSI's most popular attractions is Mission: Moonbase, an interactive exhibit that lets visitors experience what it might be like to help establish a future colony on the Moon. Complete simulated missions, learn about astronauts' daily lives, and explore how lunar habitats may look in the years to come.

Aviation Evolution

Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy this exhibit exploring the history of flight. From the earliest aircraft to today's cutting-edge technology, Aviation Evolution highlights the remarkable progress of aviation while explaining the principles of aerodynamics through interactive displays.

Above and Beyond

This traveling exhibition focuses on the future of aviation. Featuring interactive simulators, digital aircraft models, and innovative aerospace technologies, it offers a fascinating look at how air travel may evolve over the coming decades.

Virtual Reality Experiences

MOSI also offers several virtual reality attractions where visitors can explore outer space, experience advanced flight and motion simulators, and immerse themselves in exciting digital worlds.

The VR experiences are updated regularly, giving returning visitors something new to discover.

Butterfly Garden

For those looking to take a break from technology, the Butterfly Garden provides a peaceful natural setting. Visitors can admire native Florida butterflies, observe local plants, and even witness the fascinating transformation of caterpillars into butterflies.

SciLinx Mini Golf

Even mini golf becomes a learning experience at MOSI. Every hole is inspired by a different scientific principle or breakthrough, allowing guests to have fun while discovering fascinating facts about science.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, MOSI regularly hosts science festivals, Science After Dark evenings for adults, laser music shows, children's camps, seasonal exhibitions, hands-on workshops, and a variety of STEM education programs. These events make every visit a little different and give guests plenty of reasons to come back.

MOSI is a place where science becomes something you can experience rather than simply read about. Whether you're flying drones, exploring outer space, experimenting with the laws of physics, stepping into virtual reality, or gazing at the stars beneath the planetarium's giant dome, every visit offers a new opportunity to learn, explore, and be inspired.