Scenic 1h–1h15 drive southeast to Rochester; Quarry Hill offers trails, raptor exhibits and hands-on nature education good for kids and adults alike (park trails typically open dawn–dusk; visitor center hours often 9AM–4:30PM — confirm before you go).
A compact and fascinating collection about medical history and Mayo Clinic innovations — educational for older kids and adults (hours often 9AM–4PM; check seasonal hours).
Settle into your Rochester hotel and take an early-evening walk through downtown or along the Zumbro River for local history and river ecology glimpses.
Interactive science exhibits, planetarium shows and hands-on STEM activities geared to children; planetarium typically runs scheduled shows (center hours often 9AM–5PM; planetarium showtimes vary—check schedule and reserve if needed).
Hands-on science exhibits, a shallow-water play area for younger kids and regional history displays; ideal mid-afternoon educational stop (hours typically 10AM–4PM—verify).
One of the country’s top presidential museums — immersive, kid-friendly exhibits about Lincoln’s life and the Civil War (hours often 9AM–5PM; some galleries and programs may have set times).
Educational factory tour and interactive exhibits about baseball, manufacturing and history — kids enjoy the giant bat and hands-on displays (hours often 9AM–5PM; factory tours run at scheduled times).
Short drive northeast; plan to arrive near opening to avoid crowds. Ark Encounter hours vary by season but generally open 9AM–6PM; check the day's schedule and special events before arrival.
Walk through the life-size Noah's Ark replica with multi-level, educational exhibits about the biblical account, engineering, animal displays and hands-on learning — allow several hours to see it all.
Kids can enjoy the petting zoo and outdoor animal areas; older kids may try zip-line or ropes-course activities (hours and availability vary — check in advance; some activities have separate fees).
Short drive to the Creation Museum, companion site to Ark Encounter with botanical gardens, exhibits and planetarium-style shows (hours typically 9AM–5PM; planetarium/feature show times may be scheduled).
If family energy allows, drive ~30–40 minutes to Newport on the Levee and visit Newport Aquarium for marine education and interactive exhibits; aquarium hours often 10AM–5PM (confirm).
Choose to spend the night in Lexington for a final educational stop tomorrow (Kentucky Horse Park), or begin the drive home depending on your schedule and distance tolerance.