Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum is a state-of-the-art facility that opened as part of the Eastside district's Millennium Point educational complex in 2001. Here you can see fossils and dinosaur bones, learn about life in Birmingham's industrial heyday, and experience the thrill of being a space explorer.
This extensive museum is divided into four categories: The Past, We Made it, The Present and The Future. As soon as you come in, you'll be immersed in the history of Birmingham. Interactive exhibits explore the city's role as a manufacturing centre and show the trade routes that brought goods to the rest of Britain. Iconic vehicles on display include the Railton Mobil Special, which once held the land speed record, the 18th century steam-powered Smethwick Engine, and a range of World War II aircraft.
Step out of the past and into The Present, on the second floor. The Wild Life gallery is home to exhibits of animals, insects and birds. Meanwhile, Medicine Matters explores modern medical technology and provides an insight into how our body works, including why our brains are triggered by substances like chocolate and LSD. Children will love the Kid's City gallery, where they can try their hand at various jobs, including dentist and mechanic.
Look into The Future on the third floor, where hands-on exhibits explore advances in technology and space exploration. Or travel into outer space at the Planetarium for a close encounter with stars, planets and even aliens. Shows last 25 or 60 minutes and there are several a day.
Back at ground level, the Science Garden is another great interactive space for kids, featuring a square-wheeled wagon and a giant hamster wheel. Millennium Point also boasts a 22-meter wide cinema screen, where you can enjoy 2-D and 3-D movies in all their splendour.
You'll need between two and four hours to do Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum justice. It's open seven days a week, but check the official website for public holiday closures, as well as opening hours and show timetables.
There's paid parking nearby, or you can catch a bus from the city centre to the Millennium Point entrance. The museum is a 10-minute walk from the nearest train station, and just 20 minutes on foot from Birmingham town centre.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Visit Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Tours & day trips
See all 39 activitiesOpens in new tabBirmingham: Winterbourne House and Garden Admission Ticket
Private & custom tours
See all 19 activitiesOpens in new tabHaunted Birmingham Self-Guided Tour
Attractions
See all 11 activitiesOpens in new tabAlton Towers Resort Tickets
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 3 activitiesOpens in new tabBirmingham: Cadbury World Entry Ticket
Classes & workshops
See all 3 activitiesOpens in new tabBirmingham: Cadbury World & SEA LIFE Birmingham
Popular places to visit
High Street
The heart of Birmingham’s bustling retail quarter, this busy street is lined with big shopping complexes and popular brands.
Planetarium
Learn about the local history of Birmingham with a stop at Planetarium. Discover the area's lively bars and its great live music.
Millennium Point
After visiting Millennium Point, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Birmingham. Experience the area's fascinating museums and entertainment choices.
Birmingham City University
Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Birmingham City University, during your trip to Birmingham. Make time to visit the area's shops, or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
The Eastside Rooms
Learn about the events happening at The Eastside Rooms during your trip to Birmingham. Discover the area's entertainment choices and shops.
Moor Street Railway Station
Learn about the local history of Birmingham when you spend time at Moor Street Railway Station. Make time to visit the area's shops, or simply enjoy its lively bars.