Illustrated scenery with text: Wonder

Wonder: Experiences of Nature, Curiosity, and Play

Saturday, January 24—Sunday, June 7, 2026

Nature can inspire awe, curiosity, surprise, and more. Have you ever been amazed by something you saw or heard outside? Has an experience in nature inspired a question that you just had to answer? Wonder explores the relationship between nature, curiosity, and play through experiences that encourage creativity, story-telling, and reflection. From creating scenes of nature to making collections that matter; from getting out to explore the state to settling in to recharge and visit, there’s something for everyone in this hands-on, immersive exhibition. Engage your senses, pause and reflect, explore and play—and wonder at the natural world!

Three children holding felt animals. Diorama Drama

It’s June in the North Woods, and a momma black bear and her cub are sitting by a stream. Enter, explore, and arrange this life-sized diorama featuring artist-made textile creatures and props.

 

 

 

Adult looking at mammoth tusk. Captivating Collections

Dig into collections highlights, from a prehistoric mammoth tusk you can touch to beautiful birds and intriguing insects.

 

 

 

Backyard Phenology camper. Outdoors Adventures

Get ready to get outside (while staying cozy inside)! Explore the benefits of nature, whether you’re biking, hiking, camping, or just being.

 

 

 

Silhouette of Trees Under Starry Night Nature at Night

Watch the night sky, listen for the sounds of nocturnal animals, and share stories or play games around the campfire.

 

 

Additional Programming

  • Behind the Scenes: A Piece of Wonder
    January 08, 2026 | 7–8 pm

    Bell Museum members are invited to explore the Bell’s commitment to working at the intersection of art and science, while getting a peek at this exciting new exhibit with Exhibits and Gallery Programs Manager Ethan Kruszka and local fiber artist Kristin Williams.

  • Spotlight Science: Wonder and Wellbeing
    January 24, 2026 | 10 am–2 pm

    Join us to welcome a new Bell-produced temporary exhibition, Wonder: Experiences of Nature, Curiosity, and Play! To celebrate, we have a special Spotlight Science focused on wellbeing and the mental health benefits of nature.

  • Spotlight Science: Climate Stories
    May 2, 2026 | 10 am–2 pm

    Explore the ways we talk about climate change with our families, in our communities, and to ourselves. Find your climate story, and hear from others about theirs!