Gateway Science Museum
625 Esplanade
(near Bidwell Mansion)
Chico, CA 95929–0545
Mailing Address
400 W 1st St.
Chico, CA 95929-0545
Upcoming Exhibits

Coming to Gateway January 14th through April 29th
EXPERIENCE the water cycle as a drop of water
LEARN to keep water clean through simple activities.
INSPIRE stewardship of natural resources
ACT to support clean water initiatives
Visitors embark on an exciting and important quest for clean water. They follow the journey of a water drop and explore first-hand the science behind the water cycle. Through a interactive maze, visitors realize how daily decisions can immediately impact the watershed in their own backyard. Coming to Gateway Science Museum in January 2023.


Bombus is the genus name for our world’s beloved group of bumble bee species - and the title of an exhibition coming to Gateway Science Museum in Summer 2023. Bombus! The Natural History of Bumble Bees brings to life the beauty, ecological importance, and joy of these charismatic native bees. California is home to an astounding 1600+ species of native bees, but few of us are aware of the 25 species of bumblebees native to our state - that’s about half the total number of bumble bee species in the U.S. Through extensive and exquisitely detailed photography by plantsman and longtime bumble bee enthusiast and observer, John Whittlesey, Bombus! brings home to audiences the critical role bumble bees play in our native ecosystems. The exhibit explores why it is more important than ever that we know and protect bumble bees and their habitats. Bombus! The Natural History of Bumble Bees includes documentary audio/video modules, historical and current bumble bee data, and hands-on, interactive science and learning activities for all ages - in-museum and to take home.