The Denver Museum of Nature & Science will offer a full schedule of temporary exhibitions, IMAX films, SCFD Community Free Days, and dozens of educational programs for curious minds of all ages in 2018. Below are highlights for the coming year.

Reservations and a complete list of offerings are at dmns.org. Schedules subject to change.

TEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS

CREATURES OF LIGHT

Feb. 23 – June 10 • dmns.org/creaturesoflight • free with Museum admission

They light up our lives, but have you ever wondered how? Delve into the world of living things that blink, glow, flash and flicker, from tiny fireflies to strange creatures in the ocean depths. The new exhibition “Creatures of Light” explores the mysterious world of bioluminescence and biofluorescence, visible light emitted by living things. This enlightening experience features larger-than-life models, engaging immersive environments, fun activities and real animals, fungi and minerals that get their glow on.

DEAD SEA SCROLLS

March 16 – Sept. 3 • dmns.org/deadseascrolls • special ticket required

“Dead Sea Scrolls,” the exhibition that has captivated millions around the world, is having its  regional premiere in Denver. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see authentic Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient manuscripts that include the oldest known Biblical documents dating back over 2,000 years. The scrolls will be dramatically presented within a massive exhibit case featuring carefully regulated individual chambers and full English translations. In addition, more than 500 artifacts from the ancient Middle East will immerse guests in historic traditions and beliefs that continue to impact world cultures today. The authentic objects include inscriptions and seals, weapons, stone carvings, terra cotta figurines, remains of religious symbols, coins, shoes, textiles, mosaics, ceramics, jewelry, and a three-ton stone from the Western Wall in Jerusalem, believed to have fallen in 70 CE.

MINDBENDER MANSION

July 20 – Jan. 6 • dmns.org/mindbender • free with Museum admission

“Mindbender Mansion” is a wonderfully puzzling world of brainteasers and interactive challenges guaranteed to test the brain power and problem solving skills of even the most experienced puzzlers. Enter a fun and quirky mansion and join the Mindbender Society by gathering hidden clues and secret passwords scattered throughout thematic rooms and revealed as you identify patterns, think ahead, use logical reasoning and look at the problems from different perspectives. You will be encouraged to think outside the box and collaborate with other mansion guests as you manipulate a tilt table, keep up with a conveyer belt, and try out disco hopscotch spelling. The experience is an engaging way for families of all ages to spend time together.

¡CUBA!

Oct. 19 – Jan. 20 • dmns.org/cuba • free with Museum admission

Discover the dynamic culture and abundant biodiversity of the Caribbean’s largest island nation in the new exhibition “¡CUBA!” Although its complex politics and vibrant music have primarily attracted the attention of the world, Cuba is also home to the unexpected. It is a place of stunning contrasts: mysterious caves and bright boulevards, sweltering fields and cool forests, hard challenges and high energy. This lively experience — presented in English and Spanish — immerses you in the people, landscapes, unique species and daily life of this intriguing country.

PHIPPS IMAX 3D THEATER

Tickets and schedules at dmns.org/imax

AMERICA’S MUSICAL JOURNEY 3D

Opens Feb. 16

Tap your toe across America as you experience the sounds of jazz, blues, zydeco and old-time country music and see how they have shaped our nation’s distinctive musical heritage. In “America’s Musical Journey,” singer-songwriter Aloe Blacc takes you to vibrant places where American music was born, from New Orleans to New York City. Meet artists, music makers and innovators who are shaping culture today with the creative risk-taking spirit that has always characterized America.

JERUSALEM 3D

Opens Feb. 16

“Jerusalem” immerses you in one of the world’s most fascinating cities. Discover why this tiny piece of land is sacred to three major religions through the stories of Jewish, Christian and Muslim families who call Jerusalem home, and follow the path of archaeologists revealing some of the mysteries of the Old City. Rare and breathtaking footage of the Holy Land make this a stunning cinematic experience. This film is a perfect complement to the exhibition “Dead Sea Scrolls.”

HOLLYWOOD FAVORITES

Some of your Hollywood favorites are coming to Phipps IMAX Theater! The Museum is adding previously released cinematic features to our IMAX lineup. Showtimes and tickets at dmns.org/imax.

SCIENCE LOUNGE

Third Thursday of the month • 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. • dmns.org/sciencelounge

Enjoy entertainment, mind-expanding science, and cocktails each month at the Science Lounge. For ages 21 and up.

GIRLS & SCIENCE DAY

March 3 • 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. • dmns.org/girlsandscience

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science and CBS4 are excited to host the fourth annual Girls & Science event, where girls will meet women scientists and experience the many diverse opportunities a future in science, technology, engineering, art, and math can bring. This day is all about igniting a passion for science – so try it on, test it out and play! Included with general admission. 

MUSEUM AFTER DARK

June 8 • dmns.org/mad

Join us for an extraordinary evening as we delve into the world of living things that blink, glow, flash, flicker, sparkle and shine! The evening’s new format, an evening-long strolling party, will delight your senses, in Denver Museum of Nature & Science style. Enjoy live entertainment, a progressive dinner, playful libations and interactive science demonstrations. You and your guests are invited to discover new sights, sounds, smells and tastes around every corner. Cap the evening by dancing the night away with the entire Museum family at the After Dark Soiree. One-hundred percent of the funds raised will provide catalytic experiences that inspire minds to think, learn and grow through science.

SCFD COMMUNITY FREE DAYS

The Museum will offer 12 Community Free Days in 2018, made possible by the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District. New in 2018 is SCFD Free Evenings!

• Jan. 8
• Jan. 28
• Feb. 12
• April 9
• April 29 (Día del Niño)
• June 3
• July 5 (4 – 10 p.m. only)
• Aug. 13
• Sept. 12 (4 – 10 p.m. only)
• Sept. 30
• Oct. 14
• Dec. 9

Dates and times are subject to change.