VisitWhat’s On

Theme runs May 9, 2024 - September 23, 2004

This summer, join the Cade in a celebration of the little molecule that changed everything! From a refreshing beverage to a tidal wave, water holds the key to life itself. It can literally move mountains, save lives, and allow the tiniest seeds to grow into the mightiest rainforests. Sail the high seas to uncover ocean-saving inventions, explore water’s shape-shifting abilities, and get ready to dive into activities that will blow you out of the water! 

During this theme, you can earn the following Inventivity Badges:

• Fluid Dynamics – May 9 – June 16
• State of Matter – June 20 – August 11
• The Atmosphere – August 15 – September 15

Turning Tides: Save the Ocean Through Invention!

Opening May 9, 2024

We’re staying green and going blue. The ocean blankets our planet, covering a staggering 70% of its surface. As humanity brainstorms ways to keep our home-sweet-home happy and healthy, visionaries are no longer looking to the stars, but to the sea for solutions. Embark on a journey through inventions that are fostering a planetary partnership towards a greener future and bluer planet. 

Rube Goldberg™: The World of Hilarious Invention!

May 19, 2024 - December 2004

Created by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh in partnership with the Heirs of Rube Goldberg, the exhibition showcases Pulitzer Prize winning humorist and inventor Rube Goldberg’s iconic contraptions and celebrates his humorous storytelling and inventive cartoons. Inspired by Rube’s original illustrations, the exhibit contains a collection of new 3D, life-size machines and hands-on, interactive components that connect Rube’s iconic cartoon contraptions to the way things work in the physical world. These experiences provide insight into the legacy of Rube Goldberg and how classic engineering principles can be reimagined as entry points for deeper exploration of STEAM concepts for 21st century learning.  

Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers

June 8, 2024 — October 20, 2024

This exhibit explores the joys, pains, and creative awakenings that Gainesville native Tom Petty experienced while pouring his soul into his second solo studio album, Wildflowers (1994). Featuring artifacts previously on display at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the exhibit allows guests to listen to first-hand accounts from Tom and the Wildflowers team about the album’s spirited creation.

Timed-Entry Ticket

The Sweat Solution

Gatorade from concept to commercialization and beyond…​ The Sweat Solution provides a summary answer to that delicate but necessary question posed in 1965, “Why don’t football players ever urinate during a game?” The exhibit will showcase the invention of Gatorade, the lives saved because of its science, the industries that emerged from its invention, and its incredible global impact.

At First Flush

At First Flush will tell you the story of toilets, soaps, and Thomas Crapper. Find out how astronauts use the restroom, how toilets crowned the most powerful cities, and who used the first flushable toilet (and loved it).

Located in the Cade Museum’s restrooms.

Mothers of Invention

Everyone says that necessity is the mother of invention, but at the Cade, we see inventions born from all of these Mothers of Invention: Necessity, Curiosity, Imagination, Iteration, and Serendipity. Located along the second floor of the Rotunda, see examples of inventors who exemplify these concepts and listen to the audio tour.

Take the Audio Tour

Creativity Lab

Located off the Rotunda, the Creativity Lab celebrates exploration, curiosity, and getting a little messy in the name of science. Walls housing various groundbreaking inventions and models inspire you to tap into your innate inventive mindset. Try your hand at creating slime and unlocking key STEAM concepts through interactive activities for all ages!

Fab Lab

Discover the world of the digital in our Fabrication “Fab” Lab! Here, the past collides with the present with a nineteenth-century printing press on display alongside our collection of 3D printers.

The Loot Lab

Our gift shop has souvenirs, gifts, apparel, games, books, and activities for all ages. This is a one-stop-shop for every occasion! The Loot Lab is located in the front lobby. Visitors are welcome to visit the Loot Lab anytime the museum is open. All visitors may enjoy the Loot Lab, no admission required.