Visit
Visit today and explore four floors of permanent and changing exhibitions, a digital dome planetarium, 4D interactive theater and an observatory.
See What Your State Museum Has to Offer
The museum features four floors of permanent and changing exhibitions exploring the history, art, natural history and science and technology of South Carolina. As the largest and most comprehensive museum in the state, guests are invited to visit our extensive galleries to immerse themselves in the story of the Palmetto State from pre-history to the modern day.
In addition to engaging exhibitions, the State Museum also offers visitors opportunities to be amazed and enthralled with special experiences in the 55ft digital dome BlueCross and BlueShield of South Carolina Planetarium, the Boeing Observatory and the Rev. Dr. Solomon Jackson, Jr. 4D Interactive Theater.
Featured Shows and Exhibitions
Ends Jan 4, 2026! Created by the Walt Disney Archives, this critically acclaimed exhibition features 70 costumes, from characters such as Cinderella...
4D Theater
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4-D returns to the State Museum for holidays! Experience this holiday classic like never before with immersive effects...
Planetarium
Explore the beauty of the Northern Lights in Áróra, an immersive planetarium experience exploring these mystical lights in 4K.
Upcoming Events
Sat., Dec. 13, 2025 | 9 - 11 a.m. Meet Santa, Penelope the Dinosaur and more during this special morning designed for guests who would benefit from a quieter, sensory-friendly and disability-adapted experience.
Event
Santa is stopping by the museum to meet with guests and members! Get your wish lists ready and bring your cameras to take a fun picture with our jolly...
Thurs., Jan. 15, 2026 and Thurs., Feb. 26, 2026 | 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Experience live music under the stars in the State Museum's Constellation Concerts event series.
Planetarium
Explore the universe and beyond in the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina planetarium featuring a 55ft digital dome theater.
Know Before You Go
Discover the museum's mission and vision statement, meet our current team members, and more.
The State Museum is committed to providing accessible and inclusive guest experiences.
Field Trips - FREE for SC Students!
Educators, did you know South Carolina students receive free general admission to State Museum? Plan a field trip today and bring learning to life for your class!
Plan Your Museum Experience
Have a group of 10 or more planning to visit the museum? Book a group visit and receive discounted tickets rates.
The South Carolina State Museum Store offers a variety of unique items from beautiful linens and jewelry to decorative items for your home or office...
State-of-the-art public observatory features a historic 1926 Alvan Clark refracting telescope with daily solar observing opportunities and more
Museums for All
The State Museum is a participating organization with Museums for All, which offers discounted general admission to guests receiving SNAP, EBT, WIC and / or Medicaid benefits.