Power Up Exhibit: Coming Soon

Posted on Apr 16, 2026 by Building For Kids

Opening May 2026: Power Up, Sponsored by U.S. Venture!

Help power up the city of Appleton with a brand-new exhibit coming soon to the Building for Kids! We’re excited to announce that Power Up, sponsored by U.S. Venture, is opening to the public on Saturday, May 30, 2026!

Located in a newly constructed first-floor gallery between The Lab and Jet exhibit, Power Up brings energy and sustainability concepts to life through experimentation and hands-on play. As families explore the exhibit, they can generate energy, test ideas, and see in real time how energy powers a community.

In addition to learning about energy, Power Up also encourages innovation and teamwork as families collaborate to activate different parts of the exhibit.

Highlights include:

• Appleton City Model: Bring a 3D city model of Appleton to life! This centerpiece of the exhibit lights up, moves, and reacts as visitors engage with other parts of this exhibit.
• Energy Stations: Pedal, spin, and pump to activate various energy sources and send power flowing into the city!
• Transport Time Trial: Build a car, race it down the track, and experiment with design choices to see what makes it go the fastest.
• Circular Economy Decision Tree: Follow different paths and make choices that reveal how materials can be reused and recycled.

We’re inviting members to be among the first to experience the new exhibit! On Friday, May 29 from 5 – 7pm, members can join us for a free Member Preview Night to enjoy an exclusive opportunity to play in the exhibit before it opens to the general public. Register for Member Preview Night here.

We can’t wait to explore the world of energy with you!