Statewide Engagement

The Bell aims to support statewide organizations by providing them with all the materials and resources to host a Bell Museum STEAMquest. Some of the participating organizations include elementary schools, 4-H groups, and Boys and Girls Clubs across the state. These events give students and families the opportunity to learn about natural history, science, technology, engineering, and math through engaging, hands-on activities. All the activities are designed with non-science educators in mind, so anyone could feel confident leading them, from a parent volunteer during a STEAMquest, teens gaining leadership experience, or even a teacher utilizing an activity in their classroom.

If you’re interested in hosting a Bell Museum STEAMquest, please complete the interest form below.

Submit an interest form 

For any questions, you can reach out to STEMNights@umn.edu or call 612-626-0684.

Each year, the Bell serves as Minnesota’s astronomy classroom by hosting the Statewide Star Party, which offers interactive astronomy activities and stargazing opportunities for communities statewide over a single weekend in late summer-early fall. This event centers around an astronomy theme that changes annually. Statewide Star Party kits are provided to partner organizations at no cost to the partner, containing the supplies, activities and resources needed to successfully organize a star party. Interested to learn more? Email statestarparty@umn.edu

Science & Nature Activity kits bring hands-on science content to students and families who may not otherwise have access to STEM education resources or experiences. These kits contain everything needed for students to complete hands-on activities independently or with friends, family, or classmates. The activities, developed by Bell educators for students in grades K-5, promote curiosity for nature and science, both close to home and out into the universe. Since 2020, the Bell Museum has worked with 60+ community partners to deliver and distribute Science & Nature Activity Kits, at no cost to the participants or community partners. Our partners include community centers, social service organizations, schools, libraries, and other organizations. In 2022 and 2023, the Bell expanded its reach by working with partners in communities throughout Greater Minnesota, such as the Arrowhead Library System, the Yes Network, Boys and Girls Club of the North, and the Agassiz Environmental Learning Center. In 2024, the program expanded to distributing 15,000 kits statewide.

The Bell facilitates K-12 summer camps in the heart of Minnesota’s agricultural communities in Greater Minnesota. The camps are in partnership with University of Minnesota Research and Outreach Centers (ROCs). The flagship camp, located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota is titled My Food Story. The camp curriculum features North Central ROC agriculture researchers, engaging campers in active and innovative agricultural science as they explore the question, “where does my food come from?”  Summer camps run Monday through Thursday and are open to the public, as well as enrollees in our partnering community organizations, for children who have completed grades 1-5. Additional camp offerings include single day camps, an Eco Exploration camp focused on natural resources in our Minnesota Forests, and camps at the Northwest ROC in Crookston, the South ROC in Waseca, and the Southwest ROC in Lamberton.

2026 Summer Camps

For any questions, you can reach out to bellswecamps@umn.edu.

From inner space to outer space, and everything in between, our expert science staff bring exciting content to you in a unique, immersive environment. ExploraDome programs range from journeys through the universe to explorations of seasons, climate, and even the human brain! Our portable planetarium travels throughout the state of Minnesota year round and is perfect for classes, school fairs, and community events. You can schedule multiple grades (preK-12) and a variety of interactive programs on the same day. Look at our tour schedule to find out when you can book us in your area for the 2024-2025 school year!

The Bell’s virtual programs are designed to connect your group with a museum educator online for a live program about our natural world and the universe around us. Ask your urgent questions about space, Minnesota ecosystems, and more! A Bell educator will engage your students in standards-based science and fun activities all from within your classroom. Interested in an in-person visit? Reach out to bell-statewide-outreach@umn.edu .