MOXI Museum

The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation (MOXI) redefines the traditional museum experience by focusing on interactive, STEAM-based learning. Located at the intersection of State Street and the railway tracks, it acts as a gateway to Santa Barbara's trendy Funk Zone. The museum's 17,000 square feet of exhibit space is divided into distinct tracks, including the Tech Track, Sound Track, and Speed Track, where visitors can build race cars, create Foley sound effects for film clips, and experiment with wind tunnels. The LEED Gold-certified building is a testament to sustainable design, featuring natural ventilation and energy-efficient systems that align with its educational mission.

Reasons to Visit

• Engaging, hands-on STEAM exhibits perfect for children and curious adults.
• The spectacular rooftop Sky Garden offering interactive water features and panoramic city views.
• Prime location in the Funk Zone, making it easy to combine with dining and beach activities.
• Innovative rotating exhibits that ensure a new experience on repeat visits.

Things to Avoid

• Visiting during peak weekend hours if you prefer a quieter, less crowded experience.
• Forgetting to check the museum's schedule for special events or early closures.
• Leaving valuables visible in your parked car in the nearby public lots.

Local Transportation Tips

MOXI is highly accessible via public transportation. It is located directly adjacent to the Santa Barbara Amtrak Station, making train travel an excellent option. The Santa Barbara MTD electric shuttle also runs along State Street, stopping very close to the museum. For those driving, several municipal parking lots are within a short walking distance.

Travel Etiquette

• Supervise children closely, as the exhibits are highly interactive and can get busy.
• Share exhibit stations and allow others a turn during crowded periods.
• Respect the museum's no food or drink policy within the exhibit halls.

Recommended Age Group

MOXI is designed to engage visitors of all ages, though its core audience is children and young teens.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While visually stimulating, most interactive exhibits are designed for older children.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. This is the prime age group for MOXI, with endless hands-on activities to keep them engaged.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Older kids will appreciate the technology, engineering challenges, and the Innovation Workshop.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults often find themselves just as engaged in the building challenges and media arts as the kids.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The museum is fully accessible, and the rooftop views are enjoyable for all generations.

Accessibility Level: High

• The entire museum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators servicing all three floors.
• Accessible restrooms are available on every level.
• Service animals are welcome inside the museum.
• Sensory backpacks with noise-canceling headphones and fidget tools are available to borrow at the front desk.

Did You Know?

The MOXI building was designed by the late Barry Berkus, a renowned Santa Barbara architect, and it achieved LEED Gold certification for its environmentally sustainable construction and operations.

Cool Statistics

• Over 17,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space.
• Features 3 distinct floors, including the rooftop Sky Garden.
• Achieved LEED Gold certification for sustainability.
• Opened to the public in early 2017.