On the east side of the museum is an outdoor play area containing several interesting artefacts, including this "Bug Hotel". Though it may appear to us as a 32 room hotel, to the bugs it may appear as a 32,000 room hotel, with room for the largest of bug families, all their inlaws and neighbors as well.
The hotel is made of a stack of 48" X 40" wood pallets, with a mélange of items used to create the partitions which define the rooms within the hotel, such as bricks, wood rounds, acorns, pine cones, rocks and a few other things. To keep everything together and prevent the kids from dismantling the hotel all sides are covered with wire mesh.
The entire structure is protected from rain, snow, sleet and hail by a plywood roof over the top.
Children's Museum of Bozeman
Founded in 2001 by a group of parents and community leaders who recognized that enriching, experiential learning opportunities are central to the education and growth of all children, CMB has grown into one of the city’s main museum attractions, offering hands-on exhibits, summer science camps, after-school activities, and educational programs throughout the year. In 2016, we welcomed 15,000 visitors, and interacted with thousands more through school outreach and community events.
We understand that children make profound meaning from direct experience, and facilitating pathways for hands-on exploratory play is what our museum is all about. As part of our growing commitment to STEM education, we founded the innovative STEAMlab program, offering personally relevant project-based learning opportunities to kids ages 7 and up with the aim of bolstering interest and expertise in 21st century skills. Since 2015, STEAMlab programs and activities have reached more than 3,000 children.
From the Children's Museum