11:30 am Secrets of the Universe (NEW)
1:30 pm We Are Guardians
2:30 pm Spark: The Universe in Us
12:00 – 2:00 pm
When You Find the Right Rock by Mary Lyn Ray and Felicita Sala is an exploration that connects us to nature, is about collections, and finding that special rock. After the story we will decorate a box to start our own rock collection.
12:00 – 2:00 pm
Building Bridges
12:00 – 2:00 pm
Written in the Rocks gallery
12:00 – 2:00 pm
Aurora Art
10:30 am - 12:30 pm
When You Find the Right Rock by Mary Lyn Ray and Felicita Sala is an exploration that connects us to nature, is about collections, and finding that special rock. After the story we will decorate a box to start our own rock collection.
12:00 pm Secrets of the Universe
1:00 pm We Are Guardians
2:00 pm The Great Solar System Adventure!
3:00 pm Spark: The Universe in Us
11:30 am Secrets of the Universe (NEW)
1:30 pm We Are Guardians
2:30 pm Spark: The Universe in Us
12:00 – 2:00 pm
How to Catch a Star by Oliver Jeffers is about a boy who is obsessed with stars and would like to catch his own. After the story, we will make a craft with a night sky theme.
12:00 – 2:00 pm
Basket Making
12:00 – 2:00 pm
American Perspectives gallery
12:00 – 2:00 pm
Flower Painting
4:15 pm
Speaker: Dr. Charles Liu, AMNH & CUNY College of Staten Island
The Vera Rubin Observatory is the newest astrophysical facility to open - and already it is gathering more data each night than all the other telescopes on Earth put together. See the latest images obtained with this amazing telescope; hear about its revolutionary technology and capabilities; and learn how you can be part of the Legacy Survey of Space and Time - the observatory's first ten-year science mission - and make your own cosmic discoveries!"
12:00 pm Secrets of the Universe
1:00 pm We Are Guardians
2:00 pm The Great Solar System Adventure!
3:00 pm Spark: The Universe in Us
11:00 – 3:00 pm
The Bureau of Natural History will host “Ecosystems at Risk” conservation open house Sat., Sept. 20 from 11:00 - 3:00 pm. The event is being held in collaboration with the New Jersey DEP, highlighting the Museum's exhibition “Ecosystems at Risk: Threatened & Endangered in NJ” and some of the conservation projects taking place in our state.
4:15 pm – 6:00 pm
Due to popular demand, we’ve added a second free showing of NASA’s brand-new original documentary “Planetary Defenders,” which dives into the high-stakes world of asteroid detection and planetary defense. Journey alongside a team of astronomers and scientists working tirelessly to track and monitor near-Earth asteroids, aiming to protect our planet from potential impacts. This documentary captures the efforts of these unsung heroes, blending cutting-edge science with personal stories to reveal the human spirit behind this critical endeavor. Witness the drama, the challenges, and the triumphs of those on the front lines of planetary defense. After the movie there will be time for Q & A. Please note: Movie run time is 1 hour, 15 minutes. Suitable for General Audiences.
your seat.
August 30, 4:15 pm
Speaker: Dr. Charles Liu, AMNH & CUNY College of Staten Island
The Vera Rubin Observatory is the newest astrophysical facility to open - and already it is gathering more data each night than all the other telescopes on Earth put together. See the latest images obtained with this amazing telescope; hear about its revolutionary technology and capabilities; and learn how you can be part of the Legacy Survey of Space and Time - the observatory's first ten-year science mission - and make your own cosmic discoveries!"
September 20, 11:00 – 3:00 pm
The Bureau of Natural History will host “Ecosystems at Risk” conservation open house Sat., Sept. 20 from 11:00 - 3:00 pm. The event is being held in collaboration with the New Jersey DEP, highlighting the Museum's exhibition “Ecosystems at Risk: Threatened & Endangered in NJ” and some of the conservation projects taking place in our state.
A variety of organizations will be on hand with hands-on activities, including NJ Forest Fire Service, the NJ Forest Service, DEP’s Division of Fish & Wildlife, NJ School of Conservation, Wildlife Society: NJ Chapter and the Wetlands Institute. The DEP will have their Conservation Trailer - an inclusive experience that includes interactive exhibits, educational videos, and informative displays. The exhibits introduce the NJ Fish and Wildlife and its bureaus, focusing on wildlife work and successes within the agency and taking a close look at the important partnerships that aid wildlife conservation in the state. NJ Forest Fire Service will bring a Brush truck and Smokey the Bear will meet and greet guests both young & old (weather permitting.)
Update June 2025: Our Small Explorers sessions have ended for the season. We look forward to launching a new season of learning in the fall. Look for updates to our schedule and registration process over the summer. If you have participated in the past or been added to our mailing list you will receive an email with the details for the new season. Families are welcome to help us plan for the new season by completing this .
The Small Explorers program is for families with children up to 5 years old. They meet in the Discovery Den monthly. This playgroup is an opportunity to explore the Museum with your child and connect with other families for support. If you are not on our mailing list but would like to learn more please contact Amy Stevens at amy.stevens@sos.nj.gov.
The New Jersey State Museum is a wonderful setting for your special event with changing exhibits that can provide a unique backdrop for any occasion. The Museum is ideally located in the State Capital Complex in Trenton, and offers a one-of-a-kind venue with incredible architecture and beautiful views of the Delaware River. For rates and availability, please view our rental information or email Rentals.NJSM@sos.nj.gov.
Available Rental spaces:
This exceptional space is an ideal setting for buffet receptions, intimate sit-down dinners, business seminars and more. Available evenings and weekends only.
The 384-seat Auditorium is available for a wide variety of lectures, conferences, movie premieres, theater performances and more.
