Star Wars Exhibit (Science Museum)

The traveling Star Wars Exhibit came to the Science Museum of Minnesota this summer and I learned that it was soon going to close to the public due to the upcoming Republican National Convention taking place next door at the Excel Energy Center. It is scheduled to re-open to the public on September 12, 2008, but I figured I’d better go now and not risk missing it. It is a fun exhibit whether you grew up on the original trilogy or are a fan of the most recent trilogy. If you’re a fan, there was plenty to see and learn at this exhibit. One fun fact I learned was that the Millennium Falcon model used in the filming of the Star Wars trilogies had a "Drive Safe" bumper sticker on it. Also, Princess Leia's ship from Episode IV had a couple posters in the cockpit. One was the movie's own poster and the other was basically a pinup. I thought this was pretty funny and wondered what else the modelers and special effects folks slipped by without being noticed. Another interesting fact I learned was that Albert Einstein was the inspiration for part of Yoda’s character. Otherwise, the exhibit was full of scale models, costume and exhibits explaining the science behind the movie. Several actors patrolled the exhibit and halls of the Science Museum including a Storm Trooper, Darth Vader, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn. A definite must-see for any fan of the Star Wars genre.

The Science Museum of Minnesota is a great place for kids of all ages. Dozens of exhibits to learn from and participate in. Exhibits range from dinosaurs to weather science to mummies to tugboats to the Minnesota River. The learning opportunities here are fun and endless. One of my favorite exhibits is one where you have to peddle a bike to power a light bulb. That is definitely harder than you think and may make you think about leaving a light on. The Science Museum is also home to the Omnitheatre and the National Park Service’s Mississippi River Visitor Center. Admission prices are as follows…

Non-members
Omnitheater + Exhibits = Adult $16. Child (4-12) and Senior (60+) $13
Omnitheater + Exhibits = Adult $7.50. Child (4-12) and Senior (60+) $6.50
Exhibits = Adult $11. Child (4-12) and Senior (60+) $8.50

Members
FREE

The Irish Fair in Saint Paul, Minnesota on Harriet Island is a great free event for everyone, young and old, Irish or not. I've been going to this festival for about the past 5 years or so and it keeps growing and getting more popular. Every year there are more activities, performers and people. Great Irish music peformers like Gaelic Storm, the Sweet Colleens, Wild Colonial Bhoys, Belfast Cowboys Tannahil Weavers, Floggin Molly and many more often perform at this extremely popular Irish Fair. Plus, lots of Irish danicing. There is an exhibition field for various events like rugby, hurling, border collie sheep herding and other sports or events, are displayed and exhibited for anybody interested. Hundreds of vendors also setup shop so you can get any kind of Irish souvenir you can imagine. Kilts and t-shirts a plenty! Or book your trip to Ireland! Any Irish souvenir you can think of can probably be found in one of the many booths. Food and drink is based on the ticket system. 10 tickets for $10. Beer cost 6 tickets, a can of pop cost 1, burgers cost 3, scones and root beer floats each cost 4. So, its free admission and then as expensive as you want it to be after that. A great place to go with friends, listen to good Irish music and enjoy a fine Irish beverage. Definitely, my favorite Minnesota event during the summer!!!