During our weekends in Barcelona, we always love finding activities that are both educational and fun for the whole family. On one particular Sunday, we decided to head to Museu Blau, the city’s natural science museum located in the vibrant Parc del Fòrum. Best of all, the museum offers free entry every Sunday from 3 PM, which made it the perfect destination for an afternoon adventure.
A Warm Welcome to the Museum
As we approached the museum, the iconic triangular building with its shimmering blue façade stood tall, almost as if inviting us into a world of discovery. The children immediately ran towards the large, open space, eager to explore. The museum has a very modern feel, with its vast, open-plan layout—ideal for both adults and kids to roam freely.
Exploring Earth’s History in the “Planet Life” Exhibit
The first exhibit we encountered was “Planet Life,” which walks you through the history of Earth, from its early chaotic beginnings to the present day. As a family, we were all fascinated by the giant fossil displays. The kids were especially enthralled by the prehistoric animals on display, and they loved the interactive screens that let them explore the creatures of the past in more detail. It was the perfect blend of learning and play.
The highlight for our kids was definitely the giant whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling. They marveled at its size and asked all sorts of questions about how it lived, how big it was, and what it ate. This was a moment where the museum didn’t just teach them facts—it sparked their imaginations.
Diving Into the Deep Sea
Next, we visited the temporary exhibit dedicated to the wonders of the deep sea. The dark, moody lighting and bioluminescent creatures floating in the air made it feel like we had stepped into another world. The kids were mesmerized by the glowing jellyfish and curious about the mysterious creatures that live in the ocean’s depths. We even had the chance to watch a short video about the exploration of underwater life, which captured their attention completely.
Hands-On Discovery for Little Explorers
What makes Museu Blau stand out for families is its dedication to interactive learning. In the children’s discovery zone, the kids were able to touch real fossils, observe microscopic organisms, and even assemble their own dinosaur skeletons! It was a hands-on experience that allowed them to engage with science in a way that felt more like play than studying.
I couldn’t help but smile watching them work together to piece together bones, each proud moment met with cheers and high-fives. It was a wonderful way to bring science to life in a fun, engaging environment.
Our Favorite Part: The Free Entry!
Another great reason we love visiting Museu Blau on Sundays is the free entry from 3 PM onwards. For locals like us, it’s an easy and affordable way to enjoy one of Barcelona’s best cultural attractions without any rush. As the crowds thinned out in the late afternoon, we were able to take our time, ask more questions, and explore at our own pace.
A Perfect Ending to Our Day
After our exploration, we made our way outside to the Parc del Fòrum. The park offers a great space to relax and reflect on everything we’d seen, with views of the Mediterranean and plenty of space for the kids to run around. The perfect end to a perfect afternoon!
Museu Blau is one of those hidden gems in Barcelona that’s ideal for families, offering a mix of fascinating exhibits, interactive learning, and an immersive experience that both kids and adults will love. If you’re in Barcelona on a Sunday afternoon, make sure to check it out—it’s a fantastic way to spend quality time with your loved ones, all while learning about the planet and beyond.
Tips for Visiting with Kids:
- Time Your Visit: Remember that entry is free every Sunday after 3 PM!
- Interactive Exhibits: Don’t miss the children’s discovery zone where your little ones can explore fossils and assemble dinosaur skeletons.
- Parking: The museum is easy to reach via public transport, but if you’re driving, there are parking options available nearby.
- Take Your Time: The museum is large and offers a lot to see—plan at least a couple of hours to explore!
