While many consider Atlanta the Mecca of culture in Georgia, there are some hidden gems throughout the greater area. Cartersville is one of those hidden treasures, with the Tellus Science Museum being one of the best museums in Cartersville.

Why is it Georgians and tourists alike love to visit Tellus? Here are some of the best parts of the museum you’ll encounter on your next visit.

Planetarium

A common attraction to both adults and children alike is the Bentley Planetarium. This is more than a simple lights-in-the-ceiling show. The digital projector allows for shows ranging from the night sky to a deep dive into the celestial beyond.

These shows are inexpensive to enjoy, so you can bring the entire family without breaking the bank. There are also four different shows every day, giving you ample opportunity to explore beyond the constellations.

The Past

Almost every type of museum helps you explore the past. The differences are the perspective from which that exploration happens.

Tellus offers a few opportunities for exploring the past and learning. There is the fossil gallery, allowing you to get a glimpse of the majesty and magnificence of creatures long gone. Enjoy everything from standing next to a Tyrannosaurus Rex to doing a little digging of your own in the fossil dig.

Continue exploring the past with the minerals exhibit. Here you can see the magnificence our planet hides deep inside and how it is captured and brought to modern products. You can also experience what it is like to hunt for gems with the panning activity.

Technology

Bring your exploration to the modern age with the science in movement exhibit. This exhibit explores how science has helped transform our modes of transportation. From the first basic plane at Kitty Hawk and the Ford Quadricycle to space exploration.

Help young children explore more modern technology with the Collins Family My Big Backyard exhibit. This exhibit gives children hands-on exploration of everything from magnets to light and sound.

Finally, explore the future of household technology with the Solar House. This was originally built by students from West Virginia University for the 2015 Department of Energy Solar Decathlon. It was only slightly modified from the competition to make it visitor-friendly and add reader panels.

Observatory

Get back to the stars with one of the special observatory events. The Tellus Observatory features a 20” telescope, offering incredible views of the moon and planets. The observatory also has a seismograph for measuring earthquakes around the world.

The observatory is only open during special events and astronomy workshops. Keep your eyes on the website for opportunities to join the staff for greater opportunities to allow your wonder to rise.

Special Exhibits

Beyond the regular exhibits, the Tellus also has several special exhibits that keep repeat future visits fresh. The exhibits currently available are the Jewelry in the Space Age and the Zoo in You. The latter of the two explores the complex system of the human microbiome. This may be one of the most profound exhibits you’ll explore if you are unfamiliar with this important part of your biology.