We think families will love two new exhibits that are opening this weekend, Sept. 27-28! Explore darkness and all of the scientific wonders that go along with it in the Museum of Discovery's newest exhibit, In the Dark. And at the Esse Purse Museum, Barbie fans can check out an exhibit devoted to the style icon. Read more about each below.

In the Dark at Museum of Discovery, Sept. 27-Jan. 4, 2015

This new exhibit takes visitors on a journey into the dark, exploring the plants and animals that live in ecosystems like caves, the deep sea, the forest at night, and underneath the ground. Five immersive zones -- including a forest full of nocturnal animals, a cave environment and the deep sea -- enable visitors to see and experience some of these dark and largely unseen worlds. Each diorama uses mechanical displays, life-size animal models and informational panels to surround visitors with the sights, sounds, smells and sensations of several dark ecosystems. 

Exhibit included in general admission: $10, children ages 1-12 $8, children under 1 free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. For more info, visit MuseumOfDiscovery.org.

Barbie: The Vintage Years 1959-1972 at Esse Purse Museum, Sept. 28-Jan. 4

This exhibit showcases vintage Barbies, her many friends, and their fabulous accessories. The collection comes from Little Rock’s own Marsha Stone. And, on opening day, visitors can enjoy free cookies and drinks from 1-4 p.m.!

Exhibit included in general admission: $10, students and seniors $8. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tue.-Sun. For more info: EssePurseMuseum.com.

For more exhibits, visit our full online calendar here.