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Minnetrista Museum’s ‘Goodnight Forest’ exhibit brings the magic of nighttime to Muncie

MUNCIE, Ind. — The goodnight forest exhibit at Minnetrista Museum invites guests of all ages to an adventure into the nightlife, teaching families about nocturnal animals and encouraging them to explore the mysteries of the forest after dark. 

“There are no age restrictions in this space; it is inviting for children and adults to slide in a tent, play in Firefly Meadow, play in the dark, to remember what it is like to be a kid again.” 

Said Sebastián E. Encina, the associate director of curation & exhibition. 

 Through interactive displays, including firefly meadow, an interactive element where you can run around on a light-up pad, and chase the light of the fireflies. To the moonlight shores a matted play area, where you can leap across the creek, and crawl under trees. Leading you into the caretaker's hut, where you will learn the most about the animals that come alive at night, what they eat, and how they survive as well as some raccoon pelt you can feel. 

There is a second part of the exhibit for those who love to explore. The twilight trail offers an interactive experience where light and motion bring the forest to life. Going into the exhibit, you grab an explorer pack and fill it with a flashlight, binoculars, compasses and everything to help you explore the forest. Also, don't forget to wrap your bandanna around you to get the full ranger experience. 

There are so many interactive elements in this exhibit and so much to learn as a family. For those who are looking for an adventure inside this winter while feeling like you're under the night sky. All here in Muncie Indiana in the Minnetrista Museum. Open through Nov. 2, 2025. Tickets are 5 dollars for students and $8 for residents or a $45 package for families. 


Contact Lauren Bell with comments at lauren.bell@bsu.edu