Discovery Spot

An Exhibit for Young Scientists (0-6) and Their Families Explores Florida Ecosystems.

Uncover A Fascinating World

Enjoy a fun and engaging exhibit that offers numerous opportunities for adult-child collaboration in zones packed with one-of-a-kind experiences. The Discovery Spot, presented by JM Family Enterprises, features themes representing iconic Florida environments and experiences – from Ocean to Air and the Everglades to the Citrus Grove – where children can splash, climb, tinker and explore. Each area supports a child’s open-ended, role-playing and imaginative play. The exhibit encourages risk-taking that develops confidence and efficacy.

Designed especially for early learners ages up to 6 years old and their families.

Presented by

A special thanks to all the donors who made this exhibit possible:

Brooke and Robert Lochrie
Broward County Board of Commissioners, Broward Cultural Council
Christine and M. Austin Forman
Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust
Florida Panthers Foundation
Katy and Jon Ferrando
Miniaci Family
Nancy Brown and The Fritch Foundation
PNC Bank
Publix Super Markets Charities
Rick Burgess and Gunster
The A.D. Henderson Foundation
The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation
The Setnor Byer Family Fund

FAQs

The Discovery Spot is an early childhood exhibit designed for young scientists (ages 0-6) and their families.

A new permanent exhibit at MODS was designed from the ground up to support family learning. The Discovery Spot allows for “playful exploration of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) experiences that lead to lifelong learning.”

Children can role-play as airplane pilots, scientists on a research vessel, veterinarians in the Field Hospital, citrus processors in the Juicing Factory, animal trackers in the Everglades area and more. Art and science combine as children bring Florida native fish and sharks to life by digitally painting their chosen species and then releasing it into a digital ocean, watching as their fish or shark swims by on the Sketch and Release simulated ocean screen.

Yes, the Discovery Spot is designed to cater to the needs and abilities of toddlers and young children ages 0-6. It offers activities that are safe, age-appropriate and engaging for this age group.

Parents or caregivers should accompany and supervise their children in the Discovery Spot.

Children ages 7+ are welcome in with a family member 6 years old and younger.

The exhibit is included with Museum admission. Museum admission can be purchased online at mods.org/tickets. NOTE: Museum members always receive FREE admission (see member question below). When visiting the Museum, guests receive a timed entry card at the box office on a first-come, first-served basis. Each person in a party will be issued a timed ticket for entry.

The Discovery Spot is open every day the Museum is open. The hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Capacity is limited in the area and time slots will be given.

The available time slots will be allocated to guests on a first-come, first-served basis at the Museum box office upon arrival. The time slots are as follows:

10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

The Discovery Spot has many amenities available, including:

Family and ADA-accessible restroom
Quiet/nursing area
Water fountain and bottle refilling station

Preschool and kindergarten age groups (ages 0-6) must make advanced reservations during the field trip booking process for preset hours. Every learner of the school group must be in preschool and/or kindergarten. To make a reservation, please email booking@mods.org.

MODS offers Members-only hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. MODS opens the Discovery Spot one hour early at 9 a.m. for Members. Remember, MODS Members always receive FREE admission. Members can secure admission tickets online at
mods.org/tickets.

The birthday party host for children ages 0-6 will receive 25 timed tickets to access the Discovery Spot. The party host will then distribute the tickets to the party guests.

Saturday Birthday Party Time	Discovery Spot Admission Time Slot
10 a.m.	12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
12:30 p.m.	10 a.m. – 12 p.m. OR 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
3 p.m.	2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday Birthday Party Time	Discovery Spot Admission Time Slot
12:30 p.m.	2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
3 p.m.	2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Join Us for Littles Classes (Ages 2-6) in the Discovery Spot

Play, Learn and Discover Together!

Calling all little adventurers (ages 2-6) and their caregivers! Dive into playful STEM fun and hands-on activities that make learning unforgettable. Explore music, stories and learning through play.

Let the fun take flight, swim and explore!

Little Aviators Class

Soar Into Fun and STEM Learning with Hands-on Aviation Adventures!

Calling all future pilots! Imaginations will soar while exploring the magic of flight. Climb into the fascinating world of airplanes and helicopters as they take to the skies. Plus, discover what goes on behind the scenes at an airport. It’s a high-flying adventure not to be missed!

Offered on: Mondays
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.*

Members: Free
Non-members: Free with Museum admission

Space is limited. First-come, first-served.

*Guests must arrive 10 minutes before the class starts.

Little Fins Class

Explore the Wonders of the Ocean Together Through Fun and STEM Learning!

Dive into ocean fun! From playful dolphins to colorful coral reefs. Journey through the deep blue sea, learning about marine life and the importance of keeping oceans healthy. Discover fascinating sea creatures and ways to protect their homes!

Offered on: Wednesdays
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.*

Members: Free
Non-members: Free with Museum admission

Space is limited. First-come, first-served.

*Guests must arrive 10 minutes before the class starts.

Little Rangers Class

Discover the Magic of the Everglades Through Hands-on STEM Exploration and Fun!

Get ready for a wild adventure! Explore the Everglades and learn about the animals and plants that call this unique ecosystem home. From wading birds to gators, uncover the wonders of this incredible habitat and why it’s so important to protect it!

Offered on: Fridays
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.*

Members: Free
Non-members: Free with Museum admission

Space is limited. First-come, first-served.

*Guests must arrive 10 minutes before the class starts.