If you’re in town for the Winter Carnival, stick around awhile and explore some of these favorite St. Paul institutions:
Science Museum of Minnesota: It’s a great time to stop by the Science Museum of Minnesota — Omnifest 2011 is happening. The giant-screen film festival offers five movies, including the fantastic “Hubble.” It wraps up Feb. 17. 120 W. Kellogg Blvd.; prices vary depending on event; 651-221-9444 or smm.org.
Minnesota History Center: There’s plenty to discover at the Minnesota History Center, but you’ll definitely want to check out “Minnesota’s Greatest Generation,” an exhibit that includes a re-creation of a World War II combat flight in a C-47 plane, a 1930s soda fountain and a chance to view classic film clips in a 1930s-style movie theater. 345 W. Kellogg Blvd.; $10-$5 (free for ages 5 and younger); 651-259-3000 or minnesotahistorycenter.org.
Children’s Museum of Minnesota: With a calendar overflowing with kid-friendly activities, the Children’s Museum is also home to several fun exhibits, including “Earth World,” “Habitot” and “Our World.” 10 W. Seventh St.; $8.95 (ages 1 and younger free); 651-225-6000 or mcm.org.
Landmark Center: The historic Landmark Center has all kinds of Winter Carnival events. But it’s also home to the Schubert Club Museum — which boasts a collection of antique instruments, handwritten letters and manuscripts from some of the world’s great composers — and the American Association of Woodturners Gallery of Wood Art, which is hosting the exhibit “Art From the Lathe.” 75 W. Fifth St.; 651-292-3233 or landmarkcenter.org.
Amy Carlson Gustafson can be reached at 651-228-5561.
Copyright 2011 Pioneer Press.