Hands-On Learning and Sweet Delights: Explore WonderLab and the Chocolate Moose in Bloomington

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — WonderLab, a hands-on science center in Bloomington, is a place where kids can learn and use their imagination.

"We are a hands-on science center, which means that everything in here is meant to be explored and touched and experienced," said Kelli Devikey, the education director at WonderLab.

The museum offers an interactive experience for children and families, introducing them to physics, engineering, and creativity in an engaging and playful environment.

"We think that experiential component is a very important way to learn science," said Devikey.

Kids can explore science through creativity by shaping sandscapes, making music with giant Xylo Pipes, and even meeting some unusual animals — including Mooch, a blue-tongued skink. For kids who like a physical challenge, WonderLab features a unique climbing structure.

"It looks like a grapevine. Kids can climb up it. It's structured in such a way that within the first few steps, they know whether they're in it or not," said Devikey.

The overall mission of WonderLab is to spark curiosity and learning.

"The key takeaways we hope people leave with are a sense of wonder and awe — and learning a little bit about science," said Devikey.

After a day of exploring science, visitors can cool off at the Chocolate Moose, a beloved ice cream shop with deep local roots. The shop has been around since 1933 and has evolved over the years but never lost its charm.

"When people come in, they get this good-quality, locally made ice cream — it's 14 percent butterfat, which is on the high end," said Jordan Davis, the director of operations at the Chocolate Moose.

The shop has even earned some pop culture fame, being connected to the song "Jack & Diane" by John Mellencamp and being a favorite spot for basketball legend Michael Jordan.

"Art, delicious ice cream, history — what more could you ask for?" said Davis.