Explore the fascinating world and genius mind of Leonardo da Vinci!
Leonardo’s scientific and technical drawings have captured people’s
imagination for centuries. The Inventions of Leonardo da Vinci is an
interpretive exhibition of models built from his drawings that invite
visitors to explore the master’s concepts.
The exhibition includes 16 models of Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions, including a flying machine, helicopter, parachute, anemometer, paddle wheel ship, military tank and printing press. Several of the models are also interactive.
To expand the content on view, Fort Discovery is including computer stations that will allow participants to virtually leaf through portions of da Vinci’s extraordinary journal, Codice Atlantico, devoted to mechanics, engineering, architecture, physics and other disciplines. More than 50 3-D models of the most interesting machines are duplicated in the virtual journal and most have interactive capabilities in which one can see how these machines work.
Visitors will also be able to take a virtual tour of Da Vinci’s Workshop, a DVD bringing to life the rooms where Leonardo planned and produced his inventions and works of art. In addition, multiple showings of the program The Spirit of Discovery: Follow it Through will be playing throughout the day in the Paul S. Simon Discovery Theater. In this video hosted by da Vinci himself, the spirit of creativity and discovery is encouraged within all of us.
To complete the interactive experience, a hands-on station will feature models of gears, pulleys and airplanes as well as small items guests can construct themselves such as small catapults and parachutes.
Schedule of Related EventsMedia Night
Friday, July 18
- 6PM-8PMExclusively for our media sponsors and their families! See the exhibit for free before it opens to the general public! Light refreshments will be served. (Valid only with media ID)
Members Only Preview
Saturday, July 19
- 9AM-11AMMembers, see the exhibit before it opens to the general public! Light breakfast refreshments will be served.
Grand Opening
Saturday, July 19
- 11AMThe Inventions of Leonardo da Vinci is finally revealed to the general public! Take one of the first looks at this extraordinary exhibit.
Da Vinci Surgical Display
Saturday, July 26 - Sunday, July 27
- Presented by Doctors HospitalA special weekend showcase of what may be the most effective, least invasive surgical treatment option available today.
Doctors Hospital Employee Appreciation Weekend
Saturday, July 26 - Sunday, July 27
Exclusively for Doctors Hospital employees and their families! Enjoy 1/2 price admission all weekend. 10% off in The Science Store and 1/2 price memberships. (Valid only with a Doctors Hospital ID Badge)
Parents Night Out
Friday, August 15
- 6PMNeed a night away from the kids? Escape to Fort Discovery for a kids-free evening! Starting at 6PM, the Knox Gallery opens for you to enjoy The Inventions of Leonardo da Vinci. At 7PM, sit back and relax in the Paul S. Simon Discovery Theater for a special showing of The da Vinci Code starring Tom Hanks. Popcorn and soft drinks will be provided!
Members: FREE; Non-members: $3.00
Special Thanks to our Exhibit and Event Sponsors:
