Get ready to build, create and explore as Scienceworks’ newest hands-on exhibition, Tinkertown, opens this weekend – just in time for the school holidays!
Opening this Saturday 5 April, Tinkertown is an experience designed for all ages, from families and educators to lifelong learners. Through hands-on engagement, the exhibition fosters creativity, encourages problem-solving and builds confidence in STEM.
It’s a nuts-and-bolts approach to playful learning, inviting kids (and their grown-ups) to find creative solutions, piece together new ideas, and construct their own adventure in a hands-on world of engineering and design.
Visitors begin their journey in the Workshop, where creativity flows as they transform loose materials into imaginative creations. With new skills in their toolkit, they can move on to the Town Round: a collaborative building space where cubbies take shape, puzzles are solved, and design challenges keep everyone on their toes. The adventure continues in the Museum, a charming collection of quirky objects curated by the Society of Tinkerers and Makers, offering inspiration at every turn.
Throughout the exhibition, visitors can collaborate on interactives such as designing and solving a Tangram puzzle, constructing tracks on Ball-ercoaster, a magnetic ball run, and exploring the dynamic Pop-it wall, where every push and pop turns into a fidget-satisfying display or a secret coded message. The fun continues with Speaking Tubes, where voices travel in surprising ways, connecting you with fellow explorers.
Guiding visitors through the exhibition are whimsical characters who add a playful twist. These guides bring the village to life with their unique personalities: offering tips, encouragement and fun facts as visitors navigate challenges and activities.
Tinkertown is where creativity meets engineering, offering a space for children, families and lifelong learners to explore together. The exhibition fosters hands-on learning, problem-solving and collaboration – all in a screen-free environment. Whether designing, building or experimenting, visitors will discover the joy of learning through trial and error.
Lynley Crosswell, CEO and Director of Museums Victoria said: ‘Tinkertown’ is a captivating new experience at Scienceworks. Through discovery and experiential learning, this exhibition encourages visitors to tinker and experiment in a fun and creative environment. Just in time for the school holidays, it’s the perfect place to explore, build and invent together.’
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks said: ‘A favourite with kids and families, Scienceworks brings STEM learning to life in fun, playful and inspiring ways. The Allan Labor Government is proud to back this exciting exhibition which will delight engineers, designers and problem solvers of the future and is yet another reason to visit the much-loved and ever popular home of science, technology and fun - Scienceworks.’
If you’re looking for some fun this autumn break, Tinkertown is the perfect place for hands-on learning!
Tinkertown
Open: 5 April 2025
Location: Scienceworks, 2 Booker Street, Spotswood
Tickets (include museum entry): Adult $25, Senior $20, Child $10, Concession $10 and Members $8. On sale at Scienceworks and online Tinkertown tickets can be found here.
Media and Communications Team
Museums Victoria [email protected] 0466 622 621
