Circus! Science Under the Big Top

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• New York Hall of Science's "Circus! Science Under the Big Top" Exhibit67.ca.67circusscienceunderthebigtop.jpg1454831
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New York Hall of Science's "Circus! Science Under the Big Top" Exhibit

If you’ve ever wondered about the science behind a lion’s roar or the secret to safe sword-swallowing, you no longer need to trek to Coney Island to ask the experts. The New York Hall of Science's newest exhibit, "Circus! Science Under the Big Top," captures the thrill of the striped tent on opening day and incorporates science with the smoothness of a trapeze artist’s dismount. Little circus lovers can test their sideshow performance chops, perfect their circus lingo or just clown around. Here are some of the exhibit’s most jaw-dropping big-top acts.

Elastic acrobatics
Future acrobats can experience what it feels like to tumble through the air in this trapeze simulation. Kids, safely harnessed before being lifted in the air, are taught how to perform gravity-defying somersaults and back flips like the pros do.

High-wire walk
Bold children can channel their inner daredevil as they tiptoe across a wire 12 feet in the air. Suspended from the ceiling and securely harnessed, anyone 44 inches or taller can see if they’ve got what it takes to walk the tightrope. An insider tip: Try not to break your concentration when a wide-eyed crowd gathers below to cheer you on.

Sideshow tent
Just like the big tops of yesteryear, this circus has a sideshow tent to house the wild and the wacky. Think you’ve got the contortionist gene? Want to see a unicorn horn? Step inside and don’t be shy.

Human cannonball game
In this boardwalk-style game, physicists-in-training can determine how to safely launch a human cannonball. And if the subject doesn’t make it into the net the first time, don't worry: These are plastic balls, not humans.

Food cart
The circus is known for being something of a party for the olfactory system, especially given the unavoidable smorgasbord of salty, sticky treats. Tykes will find their nostrils tingling with this blind circus-smell test. The popcorn and cotton candy might get stomachs rumbling, but watch out—that next scent could be sweat.

Circus dress-up
Anyone can be a part of the circus with a little imagination…and a costume, of course. Kids can take on different personas as they transform into circus staples like a ringleader, a strong man or a tiger. Parents needn't only watch—adult-sized costumes are also available.

"Circus: Science Under the Big Top" at the New York Hall of Science runs from June 11 to Sept 4 (718-699-0005, nysci.org). Free with admission; rides that require a harness are an additional $3 per person.