I am sharing a few of my favorite summer posts while I am on blog hiatus. This oldie is still a great way to stay cool in NC during the summer! Originally posted June 2012.

Yesterday, I had the chance to take the boys to preview an exhibit at the NC Museum of Life & Science in Durham. We have been to the museum a few times before, but not nearly as often as I would like since it’s a little farther away than some of our other favorite Triangle attractions. That said, being there yesterday reminded me how fun this museum is. It’s totally worth the extra few minutes in the car!

Into the Mist, made possible by a donation from Larry and Sharon Crane, is an oasis along the long and winding paths around the museum. Upon entering the exhibit, visitors can cool off in one of two different mist zones. The mist is controlled by a button in each zone and lasts for a minute or two before it ends. Oscar pretty much camped out at the button so he could be the one to start up the fun!

Children can run up and down in the hills created by “gopher holes” and create sand sculptures and stack rocks in yet another area designated for creative play. And parents don’t have to worry about their kids getting all muddy because the terrain is covered with a mud-free astro-turf.

Oscar and Jude playing in the mist

I think it’s safe to say that we loved this new exhibit. But more than that, I was so thankful to have a chance to rediscover this museum and all they have to offer! Oscar has been talking about the Dinosaur walk, outdoor drums, and the indoor children’s play area since we left.

I think he said it best, “That was so neat at the museum Mama. I had so much fun with you!”

The Museum of Life and Science in Durham is an 84 acre indoor/outdoor science park and one of the top attractions in North Carolina. It is located at 433 W. Murray Ave. and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. and is open until 8 p.m. every fourth Friday through September. Admission applies, group discounts are available and admission is discounted to $5 after 5 p.m. on Fourth Friday’s. Learn more at www.lifeandscience.org or call 919.220.5429.

I was given free admission to this sneak-preview event. All opinions are my own.