Dream Tomorrow Today at the Indiana State Museum

Empowering Children to Shape the Future through STEM Exploration.

Dream Tomorrow Today is Indiana State Museum’s newest exhibit, open January 25-May 4. Through hands-on activities, visitors can experience a transformative journey that empowers children to positively impact the future through the lens of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

“There’s been a real need in exhibits to be able to address serious problems from positive, solutions-based angles,” said Brian Mancuso, chief officer of engagement for the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. “These are hard things to tackle, but Dream Tomorrow Today takes a positive approach so you don’t get overwhelmed by the problem. Instead, you can look at the possibilities and how you can participate to be part of that positive change.”

The Power of Play

Designed to foster visitors’ STEM identities, this immersive experience harnesses the power of play to cultivate the skills and mindset necessary to shape a better world for future generations.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with The DoSeum on this exhibition and hope to inspire a new generation of creative thinkers and problem-solvers,” said Jay Brown, Principal & Managing Director of Flying Fish. “Dream Tomorrow Today offers a transformative experience that encourages young minds to dream big and become agents of change in their communities and beyond.”

Experiences at Dream Tomorrow Today

Visitors to Dream Tomorrow Today embark on a dynamic adventure where they are at the helm of shaping the future. Through interactive and hands-on activities, participants create profiles and utilize their STEM skills to tackle complex future challenges. This gamified approach to learning ensures that children are engaged and equipped with the tools needed to navigate the evolving landscape of technology and innovation.

“Children and adults of all ages will engage in joyful learning,” said Meredith Doby, Vice President of Exhibits at The DoSeum. “Children slide into the future, weave new places to hang out, clean up ‘trash’ in a ball pit ‘lake,’ build new inventions in a Maker Space, use Augmented Reality to build a city, and shop at a futuristic grocery store. There is truly an experience for everyone, and everyone matters.”

Central to the exhibition’s vision is Planet Power — a comprehensive metric encompassing health, happiness, nature and equality. By actively participating in activities throughout the experience, young learners discover practical ways to improve their Planet Power scores and, in turn, contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.

Dream Tomorrow Today celebrates each child’s unique potential to effect positive change. Upon completing the challenges and activities, visitors are rewarded with personalized STEM identities, reinforcing the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the experience. These identities serve as a reminder that their contributions, no matter how big or small, can transform the future.

“I think visitors will really like the diversity of experiences that are offered,” said Mancuso. “It weaves in physicality and kinetics with technology. There are costumes, there is a slide, there is a ball pit. There are lots of elements that allow people to go in and really immerse themselves. Plus, getting in a ball pit and going down a slide makes for a really fun afternoon.”

More Info

Dream Tomorrow Today is free for Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites members and included with museum admission, which is $20 for adults, $14 for youth (ages 3-17) and $18 for seniors. Visitors can go to IndianaMuseum.org to learn more and save on admission by purchasing tickets in advance.

Indy's Child Staff
Indy's Child Staff
For over 40 years, Indy's Child has been the go-to resource for Indianapolis families seeking fun, educational, and enriching experiences. Our award-winning magazine and website are devoted to offering expert advice, insider tips, and the latest information on everything from the top local attractions and events to invaluable parenting resources and support. As deeply rooted members of the central Indiana community, our passionate team at Indy's Child is committed to uncovering the best family-friendly experiences and resources that our city has to offer. Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, Indy's Child is here to guide you in the adventure of raising a family in central Indiana.

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