FUTURE EARTH

The Science Museum of Minnesota celebrates Earth Day with family activities and the opening of a new permanent exhibit titled "Future Earth." Hands-on activities and multimedia visualizations give visitors a glimpse at how humans have changed the planet. Opening weekend activities include a talk with polar explorer Will Steger, science writer Shawn Otto and others. The Future Earth theater is host to live presentations and features Science on a Sphere, a globe 6 feet across that displays planetary data through video projectors.

  • 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. 4/21
  • $10-$13
  • 120 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul
  • 651-221-9444
  • www.smm.org

WHAT IF?

Families can experience role reversals during an alternate history event. Guests are invited to travel back in time and imagine a new future. Meet steampunk scribes Lyda Morehouse, Kelly McCullough and Kelly Barnhill during "Ask a Writer." Hear music by Bad September. Also participate in a fashion art activity with Leonardo's Basement.

  • Noon-4 p.m. Sat. 4/21
  • $6-$11
  • Minnesota History Center, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul
  • 651-259-3000
  • www.mnhs.org