Discover Winter Family Fun at the Schiele Museum
Winter is a season of possibilities for family travel—whether you're seeking educational adventures, a break from routine, or ways to keep kids engaged during cooler days. If you're looking for a destination that combines learning, exploration, and fun, the Schiele Museum in Gaston County, NC, is a must-visit. With engaging exhibits and activities for all ages, it’s the perfect spot to make winter memories together.
Why Visit the Schiele Museum in Winter?
The Schiele Museum offers families a warm and inviting space to dive into the wonders of science, history, and the natural world. Winter is the perfect time to explore this vibrant venue, where interactive exhibits and programs help visitors connect with the world around them while enjoying time together. With professional educators, curators, and exciting displays, the museum provides a meaningful way to learn and play—all while staying cozy during the colder months.
Highlights of the Schiele Museum
Cats Untamed
Explore the natural history of the felidae family in Cats Untamed, an exhibit that delves into the evolution, adaptations, and modern role of wild cats as apex predators. This fascinating display highlights the challenges these majestic creatures face, including habitat loss, and showcases their unique relationships with humans. Families will leave with a deeper appreciation for these incredible animals.
Dino Safari
Travel back to the Mesozoic Era in Dino Safari. Walk among life-sized dinosaur models, encounter a charging Triceratops, and watch as the Deinonychus stalks its prey. Alongside these realistic recreations, families can examine real fossils and learn how paleontology uncovers clues about extinct ecosystems. It’s an unforgettable journey through time!
Discover Winter Wonders at the Schiele Museum's Planetarium
The James H. Lynn Planetarium and Science Theater offers an immersive experience that’s perfect for winter. Escape the chill and gaze up at the stars in this fully digital, domed theater. From exploring distant galaxies to uncovering the secrets of the winter night sky, the planetarium creates magical, unforgettable memories for the whole family.
Explore the Permanent Exhibits
The Schiele Museum's permanent exhibits are designed to transport visitors across time and place:
Hall of North Carolina Natural HistoryDive into lifelike dioramas showcasing the diverse terrain and wildlife of North Carolina, from coastal plains to the mountainous regions.
Hall of North American HabitatsBe transported to dynamic landscapes like the Sonoran Desert, the Everglades, and the Alaskan tundra in these beautifully detailed displays.
Hall of North American WildlifeExperience the beauty of North America's wildlife, from massive bears and bison to smaller mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Henry Hall of the American IndianStep into the history and culture of Native American tribal groups with artifacts, tools, and interpretive displays that bring their stories to life.
Outdoor Exhibits: Nature Meets Adventure
The Schiele Museum's outdoor spaces offer even more opportunities to connect with the natural world, no matter the season:
The FarmThis hands-on exhibit explores the evolving relationships between people, plants, and animals. It’s a fun, interactive way for families to learn about farm life.
Nature TrailStretch your legs on a 0.7-mile trail that winds through a pine forest, hardwood forest, and pond habitats typical of the North Carolina Piedmont. Kids will love the Play'Scape, a fun play area along the way.
Memorial Wildlife GardenA peaceful oasis designed to support native species, this garden is a serene spot for reflection and learning.
Stone Age Heritage SiteTravel back in time to explore the tools and monuments of our ancestors. This exhibit features standing stones, burial mounds, and petroglyphs that offer a glimpse into early human innovation.
Extend Your Winter Adventure in Gaston County
The Schiele Museum is just the beginning of your family’s winter adventure. Gaston County offers plenty of activities to round out your trip:
Ice Skating: Enjoy a day gliding across the ice.
Scenic Hikes: Bundle up and explore local trails, where winter reveals new perspectives on nature.
Local Eats: Warm up with delicious comfort food or hot cocoa at Gaston County's charming cafés.
Snowless Sledding: an adventure that is fun for the whole family.
Make the Schiele Museum the centerpiece of your winter family getaway and explore everything Gaston County has to offer. Plan your visit today at www.schielemuseum.org.
