Re-Imagining Exploration: Desert to the Stars is Coming

DISCOVERY Children’s Museum to Transform Iconic Climbing Exhibit into Immersive Journey Through Southern Nevada’s Natural Environment

‘Desert to the Stars’ will invite children and families to explore the Mojave Desert, forests, mountains and sky through hands-on experiences, physical challenges and immersive technology

DISCOVERY Children’s Museum is reimagining its central exhibit, a 70-foot, 12-level climbing tower, with the development of Desert to the Stars, targeted to open Spring 2028.

What’s Changing Right Now

The Summit has begun its transformation into Desert to the Stars. During this process, explorers may still enjoy second and third-floor level play, a full top-to-bottom climb just isn’t available while the new exhibit is being built.

A New Journey Through Southern Nevada

Desert to the Stars will transform the Museum’s centerpiece and largest exhibit into an immersive, multisensory journey through Southern Nevada’s natural environment. Spanning 12 levels and 3,500 square feet, the redesigned experience will take visitors from the desert to the forest, mountains and sky, incorporating immersive technology, hands-on experiences, storytelling and physical challenges inspired by the Mojave Desert.

“Desert to the Stars represents a new opportunity for the Museum to help children see Las Vegas not only as an urban destination, but as a gateway to a unique natural landscape,” said Laura Christian, Interim CEO at DISCOVERY Children’s Museum. “By bringing the region’s environment into the Museum, young visitors will be encouraged to discover, appreciate and help protect the places that surround them.”

Exhibit Overview

Desert to the Stars will introduce visitors to the plants and wildlife that make the Southern Nevada region unique, from Joshua trees and Mojave yucca to desert bighorn sheep, kit foxes and Mojave Desert tortoises, while encouraging children to explore and learn about the connections between people and the environment. The experience will highlight the parks, wilderness areas and recreational opportunities located beyond the Las Vegas Valley, including Valley of Fire State Park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area and Avi Kwa Ame National Monument.

What Visitors Can Expect

Designed to promote curiosity, exploration, and conservation of the natural environment, Desert to the Stars aims to strengthen gross-motor skills and physical activity while providing a welcoming, safe, and accessible environment for all ages and abilities.

Beyond the physical experience, Desert to the Stars will support nature-based learning and nature literacy, helping children understand biodiversity, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship.

Desert to the Stars is targeted to open in Spring 2028. Museum Members will continue to receive exclusive behind-the-scenes updates through Builders Club as the new exhibit comes to life. Stay tuned for more details as it continues to take shape.