Museum of Arts and Sciences - Macon, Georgia

Introduction

The Museum of Arts and Sciences (MAS) in Macon, Georgia, is a unique attraction that combines art, science, and history to provide an enriching and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. Situated at 4182 Forsyth Road, this 42-acre complex is home to a diverse range of exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs that cater to a wide array of interests. Let's delve into the fascinating world of MAS.

Main Services

• Art Museum: Explore a diverse collection of artworks, including works by local and regional artists, as well as a significant collection of American art.
• Sciencenter: Interact with over 100 hands-on exhibits that cover a broad range of scientific topics, designed to engage and educate visitors.
• Planetarium: Witness breathtaking celestial projections and learn about the cosmos in the 150-seat, state-of-the-art planetarium theater.
• Zoo: Meet over 200 animals representing more than 70 species in the accredited zoo, which features naturalistic habitats and conservation-focused exhibits.
• Garden: Stroll through the beautiful, five-acre Carolyn C. Washburne Memorial Garden, which showcases a variety of plant life and offers a serene setting for picnics and relaxation.
• Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, classes, and camps designed to enhance learning and foster a love for arts and sciences among children and adults alike.

Location and Access

The Museum of Arts and Sciences is conveniently located off I-75 at Exit 172, making it easily accessible for both local residents and out-of-town visitors. The address is 4182 Forsyth Road, Macon, GA 31210. The museum offers ample parking, including a wheelchair-accessible parking area.

Visitors can reach MAS using several transportation options. The Macon Transit Authority (MTA) operates bus services in the area, and there are several taxi and rideshare services available. Bike racks are also provided for cyclists.

Featured Characteristics

• Architecture: The museum's striking architecture, designed by architect Hugh Stubbins Jr., incorporates natural materials and harmonizes with the surrounding environment.
• Exhibit Highlights:
  • The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House: A separate facility located at 306 College Street, this museum celebrates the legendary rock band's history and offers a glimpse into their lives and music.
  • The John Drew Smith Science Education Building: This 16,000-square-foot facility houses the Sciencenter and features interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning.
  • The Planetarium Theater: This immersive space showcases stunning digital projections and hosts educational programs, concerts, and laser shows.
• Community Engagement: MAS actively engages with the local community by hosting various events, such as art classes, workshops, and family-friendly festivals, aimed at fostering a love for arts and sciences.

Practical Information

MAS is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and major holidays. Admission fees vary, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and children. Group rates and membership options are also available.

Visitors can dine at the on-site Museum Café, which offers a variety of menu items, including salads, sandwiches, and snacks. The café is open during museum hours and has wheelchair-accessible seating.

The museum is committed to accessibility, providing wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating throughout the facility. Stroller rentals are available for visitors with young children.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Arts and Sciences for its engaging exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and clean facilities. Some of the most commended aspects include:

• The interactive and hands-on nature of the exhibits, which make learning fun and engaging for both children and adults.
• The friendly and helpful staff, who are always ready to answer questions and provide assistance.
• The well-maintained and clean facilities, which create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
• The variety of exhibits, which cater to diverse interests and ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy.
• The beautiful gardens, which offer a peaceful and serene setting for relaxation and reflection.

With an average rating of 4.5/5 from over 280 reviews on Google My Business, the Museum of Arts and Sciences has clearly made a positive impact on its visitors.

👍 Reviews of Museum of Arts and Sciences

Robin G. S.

5/5

2nd time taking my granddaughter. We love it. The staff is amazing. And I'm proud to say that my brother built the displays on the bottom floor.
She loves to tell others that her Uncle Ray built it. The archeological dig is her favorite.

Brooke H.

4/5

Really enjoyed our visit to the Museum of Arts and Sciences! Lots of interactive displays -- the projector sphere was exceptionally cool! My only complaint is the "mini zoo" has small containments for the animals they house, and they smelled.

Vanessa S.

5/5

Be Prepared for a all day affair.. bird show then planetarium then the animals and bat cave.. pack a cooler with snacks and drinks they don’t have food or drinks available

Samantha H.

1/5

This was my first time here on a field trip with my son, liked some of it but there were some disappointments. First they definitely overbooked because they tried to fit 2 schools with several classes in and it’s only so big. It takes several hours to go through everything but we didn’t get to enjoy everything because we would have to wait each time in the commons area. Our class never got to go into the planetarium which was unfair to the kids who were excited about it. Apparently something had to be cleaned before we could go into a room so that was more waiting. The nature trail was nice and the young tour guide was very sweet and informative. The outside bathrooms were locked when there was a sign posted on the door that they were available no one ever unlocked them. I went into the gift shop no one greeted me or even smiled for that matter and they were talking as I came in but then stopped as I was shopping around and just stared at me while I was shopping around which made me feel very uncomfortable and unwelcoming, I almost didn’t want to buy anything but I only did it for my son or I would have left, I also thought some of the items were overpriced. If they didn’t overbook and seem so frantic at times it may have been more enjoyable.

Anna R.

5/5

A very cool place to visit in Macon! Great for kids and adults. I especially love their unique art exhibits and the planetarium. The Full Dome Festival during the Macon Film Festival is a must see!

Amber A.

5/5

We decided to make this our final stop before leaving Macon. We were not disappointed! It was wonderful! We got to watch an animal show and the employee was very well informed and very knowledgeable. We learned alot about the animals she spoke on that day! We got a kick out of the small zoo and the bat cave! The Sweet gum trail was awesome and we loved the cabin. There was an amazing selection of art to view from sculptures and pottery to statues and paintings. We had a blast in the weather room and getting to go upstairs to the tree top and getting a closer look at one of the lemurs that joined us!I would definetly go back especially since I don't feel like we got to see everything.

Zac C.

4/5

This is a decent museum. The wildlife - particularly the lemurs - is really neat. The planetarium show was also great. The exhibits are also fun and somewhat interactive for the kids. My only complaint is that several of them were in disrepair and not functional.

But still, worth the price of admission and a great way to spend two or three hours.

Tyler C.

5/5

Awesome Museum. Tons of things for the kids to look at and learn about. The gentleman running the planetarium was awesome. Very friendly and helpful. The costs to get in are inexpensive. Worth going out of the way and stopping here for a day! Family fun and adventure.