Sometimes science doesn’t seem like very much fun. It can sound like work or feel like a headache of jumbled formulas that can’t possibly make sense.

However, science can be fun, too – just check out the Family Museum, where “Sid the Science Kid: The Super-Duper Exhibit!” opens Saturday. This traveling display immerses visitors in the world of the PBS Kids TV series “Sid the Science Kid.” It lets children explore Sid’s scientific world as they work to find out why things do what they do.

Of course, no science exhibit would be complete without hands-on activities and items that test the mind. Simple machines, examples of magnetism and air power, and lessons on the laws of motion are included. Picture the kids as they investigate science questions at Sid’s home, in the Super Fab Lab, or the playground and at school. According to a news release, it’s sure to be a “super-duper-ooper-schmooper” good time.

Once the world of science has revealed its secrets, it’s time to move on to look over the museum’s other exhibits. The Mississippi River just keeps on rollin’ in “Lil ‘Ssippi River Valley.” A waterplay table in the museum will let kids follow the river’s route along its banks – and like the real thing, this river can be monkeyed with to change the levels, allowing boats to move along the 28-foot course. Keep your eyes peeled, junior captains, and you’ll see the Quad Cities on the table, and its three bridges, too. A second, smaller waterplay table is available for smaller boat pilots.

The display also offers a little slice of life along the river. Visitors can use a crane to help load cargo onto a barge.

Next, head to the train table where it’s all aboard wooden trains. Here, too, one will see places, bridges and the people of the Quad Cities. These displays can capture the attention of young guests for quite some time.

After your journey down the river, try the “Thinkshop.” The exhibit encourages creativity, so put on your thinking cap. This is the place to go to be an inventor because Professor Gilbert has items ready to unleash the potential of modern geniuses. Real materials and tools are available, such as hammers, saws, nails, wood, bottle caps, army men and repurposed goods. The sky’s the limit – just create. Only two things are a must – safety glasses have to be worn and kids must be accompanied by an adult (one adult for every three children).

Other fun and interesting exhibits, such as “George’s Farm,” where you can milk the cow, await museum visitors, so check them out. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, you’ll enjoy this day-trip destination.

IF YOU GO …

What: "Sid the Science Kid: The Super-Duper Exhibit"

When: Opens Saturday; summer hours, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Closed major holidays.

Where: Family Museum, 2900 Learning Campus Drive, Bettendorf, Iowa

Cost: $8 for ages 2 to 59; $4 for ages 60 and over, 1 year-olds, and active military personnel, their spouse and children residing in the household; free for children younger than 1.

Information: familymuseum.org or 563-344-4106