WOW-WORTHY EXPERIENCES
Engaging New Exhibits to Explore at the Museum
Offering immersive experiences for visitors of all ages, the Indiana State Museum’s new Ancient Seas and Good Night Forest experiences provide glimpses into Indiana's evolving environments and the fascinating creatures that inhabit them.
Ancient Seas has been a mainstay at the museum since it opened at White River State Park in 2002. However, the permanent exhibit was completely transformed earlier this year to place visitors at the center of the story of how the state has changed over time. The new experience, which is made possible with generous support from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust and Sarah and John Lechleiter, takes visitors on a captivating journey back to the Paleozoic Era when shallow seas and ancient forests covered the Midwest.
“It will look pretty alien, but it is still Indiana,” said Chief Officer of Engagement Brian Mancuso. “You can bring the fossils back to life and watch how the animals moved in their natural environment.”
Giant sea creatures and translucent blue panels hang overhead and provide visitors a feeling of being under water. At the center of the space, an immersive digital experience allows visitors to dive below the waves and come face to face with species that went extinct long ago.
Though the creatures in Ancient Seas may look unfamiliar, some are the ancestors of the animals visitors meet at the Good Night Forest experience, which was created and produced by the museum's in-house team especially for the youngest visitors.
This exhibit helps children build confidence and cultivate scientific curiosity as they learn about the animals that emerge in their neighborhoods and local forests from dusk to dawn.
“This exhibit is a magical place in Indiana where the world is transitioning from daytime to darkness,” said Mancuso. “Some visitors may be unsure at first as nightfall sets, but quickly develop courage and bravery experiencing a ‘good night’ amongst the creatures."
Good Night Forest, presented by the George and Francis Ball Foundation and the Ball Brothers Foundation, surrounds visitors with fascinating specimens from our biological collection and colorful critters hand-drawn by local artist Penelope Dullaghan, creating an intriguing and whimsical atmosphere that’s made for exploration.
Visitors start their adventure at the supply station then follow the twilight trail as far as they dare into the forest to see — and hear — what animals they can find with their flashlights. By providing a safe, welcoming environment that allows families to explore the darkness at their own pace, Good Night Forest helps children develop bravery and learn to enjoy the outdoors, as well. Through their vastly different experiences, these exhibits are captivating museum visitors and fostering lifelong learning. ◆
