Earth Moves
Experience the four-billion-year-old story of how mountains rise, rocks turn to sand, and water reshapes the planet. Explore a cave formation made from sandstone, change the flow of a 20-foot waterfall, and experiment with sand, stones, and rolling water. Learn how natural forces form, destroy, and reform rock in a constant process we call the rock cycle. See how people play a big role in changing landscapes, too, as you use machines to mine, move, and mold earth materials.
Located near Catch the Wind, Earth Moves is a one-of-a-kind place to discover geoscience, designed for visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy.
Earth Moves opens daily at 9:30 am
Earth Moves was funded by generous donors to our Climbing Higher campaign.
Sandstone Cave
Waterfall and Erosion Stream
Stone Yard
Earth Matters
How do you share an experience about geoscience outdoors at a museum? And what will people do there? These are two of the questions we asked ourselves while creating Earth Moves. We learned from local researchers, visited area quarries and worked to understand earth science that we can see: the movement of sand, soil, and rock across our landscape by wind and water. People have a big impact on the Earth’s landscape, too. In fact, we moved a lot of earth when we made Earth Moves!
Good to Know Before You Go
Coming with kids?
Bring a change of clothes. We’re not kidding—there’s a waterfall in here, so many visitors may get soaked. Mud and sand is present throughout Earth Moves, so we recommend bringing a change of clothes, just in case. There’s also a foot-washing station in the space for rinsing off sandy toes and a private changing area if things get really messy!
It’s probably going to be hot!
When temperatures are high, rocks can get hot, so use care when visiting midday. We also have lots of ways for you to keep cool: shady spots, misters, rolling water, and the waterfall.
Keep an eye on your children as they explore.
Earth Moves is designed to be safe for all visitors. But as with all nature learning and discovery, bumps and scratches may happen.
It’s ok to keep little souvenirs.
Just like at the Dino Dig, small rocks can go home in pockets for further study.
