Madatech National Science, Technology and Space Museum

Nestled in the Hadar neighborhood of Haifa, not far from the breathtaking Bahai Gardens, the Madatech National Science, Technology and Space Museum is a treasure trove of interactive delights. This expansive museum is tucked inside the historic old Technion building, a grand structure that dates back to the early 1910s and even hosted Albert Einstein in 1923. Since opening as a museum in 1984, Madatech has welcomed around 200,000 visitors each year, including many eager schoolchildren.

The museum is thoughtfully divided into five distinct areas, making it easy to explore. As you step inside the main building's ground floor, you'll find a welcoming front desk, a cozy café, a vibrant children's play area, and a charming gift store. Among the intriguing exhibits here are the history of the printing press and The Road to Safety Exhibition. The latter offers a thrilling experience with a crash simulator, operated by a museum guide, that underscores the importance of wearing seatbelts. Brace yourself: the simulated crash is quite the wake-up call!

Ascending a narrow staircase (or taking the conveniently located elevators), you'll reach the first floor. This level is packed with captivating exhibitions, including the Natural Science Room, which showcases over 100 stuffed animals and birds native to the Haifa area, like eagles, mongooses, and jungle cats. Other exhibitions include Puzzles & Games, Green Energy, and Acoustics & Waves, each offering hands-on displays that invite visitors to engage with science in a fun and meaningful way. In the Green Energy section, children can explore concepts like combustion, solar power, and light power, with interactive displays that light up using the energy they generate. There's even a spot where kids can race sailboats on a fan-powered table, tracing wind currents with guided lines. Another highlight on the first floor is the Einstein Hall, which pays tribute to Ilan Ramon, Israel's first astronaut. This poignant exhibit includes some of Ramon's personal items recovered from the Columbia space shuttle disaster over Texas. The Madatech experience is both educational and exhilarating, making it a must-visit for families and science enthusiasts alike.