Mix FAQs

The Mix is a space designed specifically for teens, by teens. It is an open and safe environment for teens to hang out in, mess around with a variety of science and technology resources, and “geek out” with more in-depth projects and workshops. The Mix is a flexible space, it is whatever you choose to make it.

The Mix is free of charge to teenagers 13-18. Mix members are required to check in at the Museum's Guest Services desk prior to heading into The Mix. A mentor or Museum staff member will explain this process when you register to become a member of The Mix.

Mentors are Science Museum employees and experienced creatives who are eager to help. They can show you how to use equipment, troubleshoot your project or guide you through something new!

No. Mix members are welcome to use (or not use) The Mix as often as they'd like. There is no attendance requirement, but we encourage you to come out as often as possible!

Yes. Due to limited space and equipment, only 25 members of The Mix may be in the space at one time. Some workshops offered may have a registration cap fewer than 25 members; workshops require prior registration and will be first come, first served.

Yes, Mix memberships will need to be renewed annually until your teen ages out or is no longer interested in being a Mix member. You will receive an email and a letter letting you know how you can renew your free Mix membership and update your information with the Science Museum.

Once approved, your teen will receive a Mix welcome letter and membership card in the mail. Until you receive this confirmation, you will not be able to visit The Mix.

Your teen must apply to be a Mix member, fill out the Mix application and agree to the code of conduct regardless of the parent or guardian's Science Museum membership status.

If you have questions relating to the status of your Mix membership, reach out to [email protected]. For any other questions relating to The Mix, please feel free to reach out to The Mix team at [email protected].

That’s totally fine! You can explore the many activities we have available, ask a mentor for ideas, join another teen with their project or just hang out with other Mix members! It’s all about experimenting and finding what excites you.

We are fully stocked with 3D printers, sewing machines, art supplies, woodworking tools, coding programs, board games, power tools, VR headsets, electronics, soldering equipment, cameras, microphones, music and video editing software, yarn, LEGOs, popsicle sticks and more! If you are looking for something specific, feel free to reach out and ask. Or just come in and check for yourself.

You can leave it with us and we’ll store it safely until you come back. Just talk to a mentor about where it should be stored. Please note: at least twice a year, The Mix clears out its project storage to make room for more projects. Mix mentors will communicate to let teens know about bin clearouts. If you are worried about a project, please reach out to the Mix team!

The Science Museum still has so many cool things to offer if you are under 13 or over 18! If you are looking specifically for a place to make things, check out The Forge, which is a cross-generational makerspace for guests of all ages.

Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring a personal project or your own materials. Just check with a mentor first to make sure your project is safe for the space and tools.

Mix teens may bring a friend to check out the space to better understand what it entails and see if they want to become Mix members themselves. Non-Mix teens are allowed one “free” visit without a membership, but then need to sign up for a membership before they return. An annual membership is quick, free and open to all teens ages 13-18.

Not at all! While we have great STEM tools, The Mix is also a place for art, music, storytelling, design, crafts–you name it. If it’s creative and hands-on, it belongs here.

The only requirement for Mix membership is that the teen be 13-18 years old!

We have benches right outside the space for adults to hang out nearby! Adults are welcome to come in to check out the space and see if it is a good fit for their teen, but our makerspace is designed specifically to be a space by and for teens. We’ve found that when teens have the freedom to explore, create and socialize with a little bit of space from their adult, they’re more likely to take initiative, try new things and build confidence in their own abilities. It’s not about excluding adults. It’s about giving teens a chance to develop independence, collaborate with peers and feel ownership over their space. We always ensure a safe, welcoming and supervised environment. We appreciate your support in helping us nurture creativity, agency and community for your teen.

Mix members receive a free Science Museum membership alongside their Mix membership and, therefore, have access to the Science Museum. It is up to the discretion of the adult/teen on whether or not the teen may leave The Mix or the Science Museum. Once the teen has left the space, Mix mentors are no longer responsible for them.