How to Visit the Thinkery Robot Exhibit

The Thinkery Robot Exhibit is a dynamic, hands-on immersive experience designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages about robotics, engineering, and artificial intelligence. Located in Austin, Texas, the Thinkery is a premier children’s museum that blends play with learning, and its Robot Exhibit stands as one of its most popular and educationally rich installations. Whether you’re a parent planning a family outing, an educator organizing a field trip, or a tech enthusiast exploring interactive STEM displays, knowing how to visit the Thinkery Robot Exhibit ensures you make the most of your time and fully engage with its innovative content.

Unlike traditional museum exhibits that rely on static displays, the Thinkery Robot Exhibit invites visitors to interact with real robotic systems, program simple behaviors, observe AI decision-making in action, and even build their own robotic prototypes. This experiential approach not only deepens understanding but also fosters critical thinking and creativity—skills essential in today’s technology-driven world. Understanding how to plan your visit effectively means maximizing accessibility, avoiding common pitfalls, and aligning your experience with educational goals or personal interests.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every essential step to visit the Thinkery Robot Exhibit—from pre-visit planning and ticketing to on-site navigation and post-visit enrichment. You’ll learn best practices for engaging with the exhibit, discover tools and resources that enhance your experience, explore real examples of how others have benefited from their visit, and find answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll be fully prepared to explore the exhibit with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm Exhibit Availability

Before making any plans, verify that the Robot Exhibit is currently open and active. The Thinkery periodically rotates its exhibits to introduce new themes and technologies. While the Robot Exhibit has been a long-standing favorite, temporary closures for maintenance, upgrades, or seasonal changes can occur.

Visit the official Thinkery website at thinkeryaustin.org and navigate to the “Exhibits” section. Look for the Robot Exhibit listing, which will include its current status—“Open,” “Coming Soon,” or “Closed.” If the exhibit is listed as open, proceed to the next step. If it’s marked as closed or under renovation, sign up for the museum’s email newsletter to receive updates on reopening dates.

2. Choose Your Visit Date and Time

The Thinkery operates on a timed-entry ticketing system to manage crowd flow and ensure a high-quality visitor experience. This system applies to all guests, including members. Selecting the right date and time can significantly impact your visit.

Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) typically offer the least crowded hours, especially during the morning (10:00 AM–12:00 PM). These windows are ideal for families with young children or educators seeking a quieter environment for group learning. Weekends and school holidays are busier, particularly between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

Use the online ticketing calendar on the Thinkery website to view available time slots. You can filter by date and time, and the system will show real-time availability. Select a slot that aligns with your schedule and preferred energy levels—early morning visits are often more productive for learning-focused groups.

3. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Tickets for the Thinkery Robot Exhibit are not available at the door without a reservation. Walk-ins are not permitted due to capacity limits. All tickets must be purchased online in advance through the Thinkery’s official website.

Visit thinkeryaustin.org/tickets and select your desired date and time. You’ll be prompted to choose the number of guests and their age categories: Adult (18+), Child (1–17), and Infant (under 1). Children under 1 enter free with a paying adult. Members receive free admission but still need to reserve a timed slot.

Consider purchasing a Family Pass if you plan to visit multiple times within a year. These passes include unlimited admission, discounted parking, and early access to special exhibits. For educators and school groups, visit the “Field Trips” section to book discounted group rates and receive pre-visit curriculum materials.

4. Prepare for Your Visit

Once your tickets are confirmed, prepare for a seamless experience. Print or save your digital ticket on your mobile device. You’ll need to present it at the entrance kiosk for scanning.

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. The Robot Exhibit includes interactive stations that involve walking, bending, and sometimes kneeling to engage with floor-level robotics. Avoid bulky backpacks; lockers are available for rent at the front desk for $2 per item.

Bring a water bottle (empty) to fill at the museum’s hydration stations. Outside food and drinks are not permitted in exhibit areas, but the Thinkery’s café offers healthy snacks and meals for purchase.

For children with sensory sensitivities or special needs, the Thinkery provides a Sensory-Friendly Visit Guide on its website. This guide includes visual schedules, noise-reducing headphones available for loan, and quiet zones within the museum. Contact the museum in advance if you require accommodations to ensure availability.

5. Arrive Early and Check In

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled entry time. The Thinkery is located at 1830 Simond Avenue, Austin, TX 78705. Parking is available on-site for $5 per vehicle, or you can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, which have designated drop-off zones.

Upon arrival, proceed to the main entrance where staff will scan your digital or printed ticket. You’ll receive a color-coded wristband indicating your entry time and a map of the museum layout. The Robot Exhibit is located on the second floor, marked with a blue sign featuring a robotic arm icon.

6. Navigate to the Robot Exhibit

Follow the directional signage from the main lobby to the escalators or elevators. The Robot Exhibit occupies a large, open space on the second floor with multiple zones: “Build & Code,” “Robot Arena,” “AI Learning Lab,” and “Design Challenge.”

Upon entering, you’ll notice a central kiosk with a digital guide. Tap the screen to access an interactive map that highlights active stations, wait times, and staff-led demonstrations. The kiosk also offers multilingual options for non-English speakers.

7. Engage with Interactive Stations

Each zone within the Robot Exhibit is designed for hands-on learning. Here’s how to engage effectively:

• Build & Code: Use physical blocks and drag-and-drop software to program a small robot to navigate a maze. No prior coding experience is needed—guided tutorials appear on touchscreens.
• Robot Arena: Watch autonomous robots compete in obstacle courses. Try adjusting parameters like speed and sensor sensitivity to alter outcomes.
• AI Learning Lab: Interact with a machine learning model trained to recognize facial expressions. Test how it responds to different emotions and discuss bias and data training with museum educators.
• Design Challenge: Use recycled materials and simple motors to construct your own robot prototype. Staff are available to help with tools and safety guidelines.

Each station has a time limit of 15–20 minutes to allow fair access. If a station is full, use the digital kiosk to see which ones are next to open. Rotate through stations based on your interests—don’t feel pressured to do them all.

8. Participate in Live Demonstrations

The Thinkery offers scheduled live demonstrations throughout the day. These are led by trained STEM educators and typically last 15–20 minutes. Check the daily schedule posted at the exhibit entrance or on the digital kiosk.

Popular demonstrations include “How Robots See the World” (exploring sensors and cameras), “The Ethics of AI,” and “Build a Robot with a Raspberry Pi.” These sessions often include Q&A and are especially valuable for older children and adults seeking deeper context.

9. Capture Your Experience

Photography is encouraged in the Robot Exhibit. You can take photos of your creations, the robots in motion, and educational signage. Tripods and selfie sticks are not permitted for safety reasons. Consider using the museum’s free photo stations, where you can pose with a green screen background and receive a digital copy of your robot-themed photo via email.

10. Complete Your Visit with Reflection

Before exiting, visit the “Reflection Station” located near the exhibit’s exit. This interactive digital wall invites visitors to answer prompts like “What surprised you about robots today?” or “What would you design if you could build any robot?” Your responses are anonymously shared with other visitors and contribute to a growing community of ideas.

Take a moment to review the takeaway sheet provided at the entrance—it includes discussion questions, extension activities, and links to free online robotics tools for continued learning at home.

Best Practices

Plan Around Your Audience’s Interests

Visitors range from toddlers to seniors. Tailor your approach based on who you’re visiting with. For younger children (ages 3–7), focus on tactile stations like “Build & Code” and “Robot Arena,” where movement and color capture attention. For tweens and teens (ages 8–17), prioritize the AI Learning Lab and Design Challenge to encourage problem-solving and creativity. Adults and educators should engage with the live demonstrations and reflection station to deepen conceptual understanding.

Limit Screen Time, Maximize Hands-On

While digital interfaces are part of the exhibit, the Thinkery emphasizes physical interaction. Avoid letting children spend excessive time on tablets or screens. Encourage them to touch, build, and test physical components. Research shows that kinesthetic learning improves retention by up to 75% compared to passive observation.

Use the “Ask a Maker” Program

Every hour, a museum educator or local robotics engineer is stationed at a “Ask a Maker” desk. Don’t hesitate to ask questions like, “How does this robot avoid collisions?” or “Where do you get the parts for these builds?” These experts are trained to explain complex concepts in accessible language. Their insights often spark deeper curiosity and lead to unplanned learning moments.

Encourage Open-Ended Exploration

Instead of directing children to complete a specific task, ask open-ended questions: “What do you think will happen if we change the sensor setting?” or “How is this robot different from the one we saw earlier?” This approach fosters critical thinking and reduces pressure to “get it right.”

Time Your Visit for Optimal Energy

Children and adults alike perform better when not fatigued. Avoid visiting after a long day or right after meals. Mornings are ideal. If you’re visiting with a group, schedule a 15-minute break halfway through to recharge with a snack or water.

Bring a Notebook or Sketchpad

For older visitors and educators, keeping a simple journal helps solidify learning. Sketch robots, jot down questions, or note ideas for home experiments. Many families have turned their Thinkery visit into a multi-week project by continuing to build on ideas from the exhibit.

Respect the Space and Equipment

Robots and sensors are delicate. Always follow posted instructions: don’t force parts, avoid touching electronics with wet hands, and return tools to their designated bins. If something breaks or malfunctions, notify staff immediately—they’re trained to handle repairs quickly and safely.

Extend the Learning Beyond the Museum

The Thinkery provides free downloadable activity packs on its website. These include printable coding games, robot design templates, and science experiments using household items. Use these to continue the conversation at home or in the classroom. Teachers can request curriculum-aligned lesson plans for grades K–8.

Tools and Resources

Official Thinkery Website

thinkeryaustin.org is your primary resource for tickets, exhibit schedules, educational materials, and accessibility information. The site is mobile-optimized and updated in real time.

Thinkery Mobile App

Download the free Thinkery app (available on iOS and Android) to access an interactive museum map, push notifications for demo times, and augmented reality features that bring robots to life through your phone’s camera. The app also includes a “Robot Challenge Tracker” to log which stations you’ve completed.

Robotics Learning Platforms

After your visit, explore these free or low-cost platforms to continue learning:

• Scratch (scratch.mit.edu) – A block-based coding platform developed by MIT, perfect for beginners to recreate robot behaviors seen at the exhibit.
• Code.org – Offers free robotics-themed lessons aligned with Common Core and NGSS standards.
• Arduino Project Hub – For advanced learners, this site provides step-by-step guides to building real robots using affordable hardware.

Printable Activity Kits

The Thinkery offers downloadable “Robot Explorer Kits” for families and classrooms. These include:

• Robot design templates with cut-out parts
• Simple circuit diagrams using batteries and LEDs
• “Robot Ethics” discussion cards
• Journal prompts for reflection

Access these at thinkeryaustin.org/learn-at-home.

YouTube Channel: Thinkery STEM Shorts

Subscribe to the Thinkery’s YouTube channel for 3–5 minute videos that break down exhibit concepts: “How Sensors Work,” “What Is AI?,” and “Building a Robot from Trash.” These are ideal for pre-visit previewing or post-visit review.

Local Robotics Clubs and Competitions

After visiting, consider connecting with local STEM organizations:

• Austin Robotics Club – Hosts monthly workshops for kids and teens.
• First Lego League – A regional robotics competition for students aged 9–16.
• Girls Who Code – Austin Chapter – Offers free after-school programs focused on robotics and coding.

Library Resources

Many Austin Public Library branches carry books on robotics for children and adults, including:

• Robotics for Kids by Sarah K. Smith
• The Everything Robotics Book for Kids by Lisa A. Phillips
• AI for Everyone by Andrew Ng (for older teens and adults)

Use the library’s online catalog to reserve titles for pickup or download as e-books.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Garcia Family – First-Time Visitors

The Garcias, a family of four from San Marcos, visited the Thinkery Robot Exhibit with their 6-year-old and 9-year-old daughters. They purchased a Family Pass and arrived at 10:00 AM on a Tuesday. Their younger daughter was initially hesitant around the robots, but after watching a staff-led demo on “How Robots Feel,” she became fascinated with touch sensors. She spent 30 minutes building her own robot with foam and motors, naming it “Blinky.” The family used the digital kiosk to track their progress and completed four stations before lunch. They downloaded the free activity kit and spent the next week at home creating robot puppets from cardboard boxes. “It wasn’t just fun—it changed how she talks about technology,” said her mother. “Now she asks how things work instead of just wanting to use them.”

Example 2: Ms. Rivera’s 4th Grade Class

Mrs. Rivera, a public school teacher in East Austin, organized a field trip for her 28 students. She booked a group rate and received a pre-visit curriculum packet on “Robotics and Real-World Problems.” During the visit, students rotated through stations in small groups, each assigned a role: recorder, builder, timekeeper, and questioner. Afterward, they wrote short essays on “How Robots Can Help Our Community.” One student proposed a robot that picks up litter in parks. The class submitted the idea to the Thinkery’s “Youth Innovators Program” and was invited to present it at a community STEM fair. The project later won a local innovation grant.

Example 3: David, a Retired Engineer

David, 72, visited the Robot Exhibit alone after reading about it in a local newspaper. He had spent 40 years designing industrial robots and was curious to see how modern exhibits taught children. He spent two hours in the AI Learning Lab, asking staff questions about neural networks. He was surprised to see how intuitive the interfaces had become. “I thought I’d be teaching them,” he said. “Instead, they taught me how to think like a kid again.” He returned two weeks later with his 8-year-old grandson and now volunteers monthly as a “Robot Storyteller,” sharing tales of early robotics with young visitors.

Example 4: The Tech Enthusiast Group

A group of five local tech professionals visited on a Saturday afternoon to explore the exhibit for inspiration. They focused on the Design Challenge station and spent over an hour prototyping a robot that sorts recyclables. One member recorded the process on video and later posted it on LinkedIn, sparking a conversation about tactile learning in tech education. The post received over 2,000 views and led to a partnership between their company and the Thinkery to sponsor a new robotics workshop for underrepresented youth.

FAQs

Do I need to be tech-savvy to enjoy the Robot Exhibit?

No. The exhibit is designed for all levels of technical knowledge. Interactive stations include step-by-step visual guides, and staff are trained to assist visitors regardless of background. You don’t need to know how to code to build a robot here.

Can I bring a stroller into the Robot Exhibit?

Yes. Strollers are allowed throughout the museum. However, some stations have narrow pathways. For easier navigation, consider using a lightweight, foldable stroller. Lockers are available if you prefer to store it.

Is the Robot Exhibit accessible for visitors with mobility impairments?

Yes. The entire Thinkery is ADA-compliant. Elevators provide access to the second floor. All interactive stations are height-adjustable or wheelchair-accessible. Sensory-friendly tools and quiet spaces are available upon request.

How long should I plan to spend at the Robot Exhibit?

Most visitors spend 60–90 minutes in the Robot Exhibit. However, if you’re participating in live demos or engaging deeply with the Design Challenge, you may spend up to two hours. The entire museum can be explored in 3–4 hours.

Are there age restrictions for the Robot Exhibit?

No. The exhibit is designed for ages 1 and up. Infants can observe from strollers or carrier seats. Younger children may need adult assistance at certain stations, but all content is adaptable.

Can I re-enter the Robot Exhibit if I leave?

Yes. Your timed ticket grants you full-day access to the entire museum. You may leave and return as needed, but you must re-enter through the main entrance and present your ticket or wristband.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, for personal use. Flash photography and tripods are prohibited to protect sensitive equipment. Commercial photography requires prior written permission.

What if my child is scared of robots?

It’s common. The exhibit includes a “Robot Calm Zone” with soft lighting, calming sounds, and non-robotic tactile toys. Staff can help ease anxiety by letting your child observe from a distance before participating. No one is forced to interact.

Can I book a private tour of the Robot Exhibit?

Yes. Private group tours for schools, clubs, or corporate teams can be arranged with at least two weeks’ notice. Contact the Education Department via the website for pricing and customization options.

Are there volunteer opportunities related to the Robot Exhibit?

Yes. The Thinkery welcomes volunteers with backgrounds in engineering, education, or child development. Volunteers assist with demonstrations, mentor visitors, and help maintain equipment. Applications are accepted online.

Conclusion

Visiting the Thinkery Robot Exhibit is more than a trip to a museum—it’s an invitation to participate in the future of technology. By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to get in the door; you’re learning how to engage deeply, think critically, and carry the spirit of curiosity beyond the exhibit walls.

From securing your timed ticket to reflecting on what you’ve built and discovered, every step of the process is designed to empower you—not just as a visitor, but as a learner. The Robot Exhibit doesn’t just show you robots; it shows you the power of asking questions, testing ideas, and collaborating with others.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, student, or lifelong learner, this experience offers something profound: the realization that technology isn’t something distant or intimidating. It’s something you can understand, shape, and even create.

Plan your visit, come with an open mind, and let the robots spark your imagination. The future doesn’t just belong to those who use technology—it belongs to those who understand it. And now, you’re one step closer to joining them.