Museum of Arts and Sciences - Macon, Georgia

Introduction

The Museum of Arts and Sciences (MAS) in Macon, Georgia, is a treasure trove of learning and fun, offering a unique blend of art, science, and history. Nestled at 4182 Forsyth Rd, this beloved institution has been serving the Macon-Bibb County community and its visitors since 1956. Let's delve into the captivating world of MAS, exploring its main services, location, featured characteristics, and practical information.

Main Services

• Art Galleries: MAS houses an impressive collection of artworks, featuring both local and international artists. The Sterling gallery displays rotating exhibitions, while the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame showcases interactive exhibits celebrating Georgia's sports history.
• Science Center: The science center is home to numerous interactive exhibits, such as the Dynamic Earth and the Projector Sphere, making learning about science an engaging and enjoyable experience.
• Planetarium: The John S. Russel planetarium offers immersive astronomy shows, providing visitors with a chance to explore the cosmos without leaving the comfort of the theater.
• Zoo and Nature Trails: MAS is home to over 100 animals, including red pandas, meerkats, and a variety of birds. The Ocmulgee Heritage Trail allows visitors to explore the beautiful, natural surroundings along the Ocmulgee River.
• Education Programs: MAS offers a range of educational programs, including summer camps, scout programs, and workshops, ensuring that learning is always accessible and fun.

Location and Access

The Museum of Arts and Sciences is conveniently located in College Hill, a historic neighborhood in Macon. It is easily accessible from major highways, including Interstate 75 and Interstate 16. The museum offers ample parking, with dedicated spaces for buses and visitors with disabilities. For those using public transportation, the museum is served by the Macon-Bibb County Transit Authority's Route 10.

Featured Characteristics

• Architecture: MAS resides in a beautifully restored 1917 Greek Revival mansion, which serves as the Sterling Gallery. The building's classic architecture is a testament to Macon's rich history.
• Outdoor Spaces: The museum's 16-acre campus features lush, landscaped gardens and picnic areas, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and reflection.
• Accessibility: MAS is committed to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy its offerings. The museum is wheelchair-accessible, with elevator access to all floors, and provides assistive listening devices for the planetarium.

Practical Information

• Admission: Admission fees vary, with discounts available for seniors, military personnel, and students. Children under 3 receive free admission.
• Hours of Operation: The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and major holidays.
• Contact Information: For more information, visitors can call 478-477-3232 or visit the museum's website at masmacon.org.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors have consistently praised MAS for its engaging and educational exhibits, as well as its dedicated and knowledgeable staff. The interactive nature of the museum's offerings has been particularly well-received, with many visitors highlighting the Projector Sphere and other hands-on exhibits as highlights of their experience. The museum's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity has also been commended, with visitors appreciating the efforts made to ensure that all guests can enjoy the facilities.

One reviewer, a grandmother visiting with her granddaughter, praised the staff's amazing work and expressed pride in her brother's contribution to the displays. Another visitor enjoyed the museum's interactive displays, particularly the projector sphere, and commended the diverse range of exhibits on offer.

The Museum of Arts and Sciences in Macon, Georgia, is more than just a museum – it is a dynamic hub of learning and entertainment. With its impressive collection of art and science exhibits, beautiful outdoor spaces, and commitment to accessibility, MAS is a must-visit destination for visitors of all ages.

👍 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.