Please note: the Science History Institute Museum will close at 4pm on Friday, September 22 and reopen at 5pm for Vibrant, Dazzling, BOLD: An Opening Celebration.

Join our museum’s Gallery Guides for a “drop-in” tour that explores the vital impacts made by engaged communities on scientific discovery, environmental justice, and public health.

Our Science & Activism Tour invites visitors to consider these questions: Who is a scientist? Who is an activist? How does each bring about change?

Stories include the influential book Silent Spring by conservationist Rachel Carson and the rise of the environmental movement; ACT UP, the AIDS crisis, and the development of the patients’ bill of rights; the Black Panthers’ lead role in community testing for sickle cell anemia; and the water-use protests that shaped the future (and the topography) of the Delaware River Valley.

This tour offers a broad picture of the ways activists have reshaped our understanding of science and how visitors can become engaged today.


Drop-in tours are free and no reservations are necessary.

More events

illustration of dancers and streams of color over a black background
September 22, 2023
Museum Programs & Activities

Vibrant, Dazzling, BOLD: An Opening Celebration

Join us in celebrating the opening of our newest exhibition, BOLD: Color from Test Tube to Textile.

Painting of William Henry Perkin
September 23, 2023
Free

Dyes & Textiles Tour

This “drop-in” tour highlights the science of natural dyes and textiles, the technology behind synthetic clothing, and the impact of fashion on human health and the environment.

Illustrations of bacteria
September 23, 2023
For Families

Stories of Science

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

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