Our Visit to Leonardo da Vinci Exhibit at California Science Center

California Science Center has always been one of our must-visit locations during summer break, and this year is no exception. The current exhibit is Leonardo da Vinci. The exhibit offers an immersive journey into the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci; diving into his achievement, dreams, and vision as a dreamer, an artist, and an inventor.

The exhibit is located on the 3rd floor after entering through the main entrance. Upon entering, we were greeted by an impressive array of meticulously recreated models, including Automatic Saw, Perpetual Motion Machine, Swing Bridge, and many more. The Renaissance maestro had an equally impressive resume on his artwork as he had on his inventions. One stunning reproduction of his art in display is “The Last Supper”, with the real artwork currently displayed on the wall of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. This exhibit incorporates in many interactive components that further revealing the background, history, and even secrets behind some of da Vinci’s masterpieces.

Kids tried several hands-on simulations to understand the logic behind his inventions. They used the materials provided onsite to recreate da Vinci’s famous self-supporting bridge without any use of nails and hinges to secure the frame together. Another popular interactive learning activity is the paddle boat. With one person on the steer and another on foot paddles, they could try to simulate how to effectively operate a wooden paddle boat.

After visiting da Vinci exhibit, of course kids wouldn’t forgo the chance to visit their favorite spots inside the science center; touching starfish, learning about ecosystems, and visiting the aquarium on the bottom floor. Hours and hours of learning was well spent here.

California Science Center is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Plan a visit to the special Leonardo da Vinci exhibit before its set departure date on September 2nd!