Make something that does something! A machine is defined as "a combination of parts that transmit forces, motion, and energy to do some desired work." Today, we'll use tons of different materials including gears, motors, and even LEGO® bricks to make our very own machines. Your design can be as simple or complex as your […]
Today we'll think up some inventive ways to play with toy cars, just in time for the holiday season! Put your hacking skills to the test as we create custom tracks, obstacle courses and mazes using craft supplies, cardboard boxes and other recycled materials. You might even take home a toy car of your very […]
There are all different types of cars on display at America's Car Museum and each was designed with a particular purpose or style in mind. Some cars are built to look fast, while others are designed with safety in mind. On Family STEAM Day, learn more about the choices designers make when designing automobiles. Then, […]
The automobile was a life-changing invention, but without bridges, we wouldn't be able to visit and explore some of our favorite places. Today, we'll use simple materials to design and build our own bridges. Think like an engineer, ask questions, and have fun completing this design challenge! Design, build, tinker and learn together as you […]
The use of renewable forms of energy is a major focus for today's engineers, especially within the automotive world. Wind power is one of the simplest and least expensive sources of renewable energy. Today we'll be using craft supplies and recycled materials to design, build and race wind-powered model cars, as we explore how wind […]
Members of The SOTAbots (a Washington robotics team combining nontraditional High School students from The Industrial Design and Engineering Arts School (iDEA), School of the Arts (SOTA) and Tacoma Science and Math Institute (SAMi)) will be at the museum talking with visitors about designing, programming and building robots. Create your own designs in our […]
Come explore the world of racing! Today you'll have the chance to check out some cool race cars and learn about about designing and building fuel efficient cars for the future. Then, head into the Museum and pick up a Race Car Scavenger Hunt from the front desk. Using the clues provided, see […]
Having basic knowledge of an automobile is a life skill, and teaching future and soon-to-be drivers the basics will give them a safer driving experience and save money in the long run. We'll provide participants with the basic knowledge to understand how to take care of a vehicle. Workshop topics will include a basic introduction […]
Explore the pros and cons of different biofuel sources by participating in a bio-refinery activity. Then, see if you can power a model car using this renewable energy source! This event is FREE for ACM Members and included with Museum admission.
As part of today's Electric Vehicle Ride and Drive with Tacoma Power, we'll be exploring the science behind battery-powered cars. Join the ACM Education Department on the Anderson Plaza (outside the entrance to the Museum) to learn more about what makes electric cars go! Then, use your imagination and engineering skills to see if you […]
