Life Chronicles Boston: Epic journey through 3.5 billion years of Earth’s history at the Museum of Science

Museum of Science

1 Science Pk, Boston, MA 02114
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A remarkable new immersive experience is arriving in Boston this summer, giving visitors the chance to witness some of the most important moments in Earth’s history firsthand.

Opening June 17 at the Museum of Science, Life Chronicles Boston takes guests on a 30-minute virtual reality expedition spanning 3.5 billion years. From the first traces of life in ancient oceans to towering dinosaurs and the appearance of early humans, the experience offers an extraordinary journey through the story of our planet.

Designed for ages 8 and up, Life Chronicles combines immersive technology with rigorous scientific research to create an experience that is both educational and visually stunning.

Step Into Earth’s Distant Past

The adventure begins in the Archean Era, roughly 3.5 billion years ago, when the earliest forms of life first emerged on Earth. From there, visitors travel through a series of prehistoric landscapes that showcase major milestones in evolution.

Along the way, you’ll witness the explosion of life during the Cambrian Period, explore ancient oceans teeming with unfamiliar creatures, and venture into lush tropical environments populated by some of the most iconic animals in Earth’s history.

The journey eventually reaches the Cretaceous Period, where massive dinosaurs ruled the planet. Guests will come face-to-face with prehistoric giants, including the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex.

The experience concludes with humanity’s relatively recent arrival, placing our own species within the vast timeline of life on Earth.

Guided by Charlie and Darwin

Throughout the expedition, visitors are accompanied by a virtual guide named Charlie and her robotic companion, Darwin.

Together, they help explain the dramatic changes that shaped life across billions of years, making the experience accessible to both children and adults. Rather than simply observing exhibits, guests become active participants in the story, moving through ancient environments and encountering creatures that disappeared millions of years ago.

The result is a unique blend of scientific discovery and immersive storytelling.

Created With Scientific Accuracy at Its Core

What sets Life Chronicles apart from many virtual reality attractions is its commitment to scientific accuracy.

The experience was developed by Excurio in collaboration with the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle in France. Paleontologists, paleobotanists, evolution specialists, and bioacousticians contributed to the project, helping ensure that the animals, environments, sounds, and scientific information reflect current research.

While the experience embraces a sense of wonder and adventure, every scene is grounded in extensive scientific expertise.

That combination allows visitors to enjoy a visually spectacular journey while also gaining a deeper understanding of how life evolved on Earth.

A New Type of Museum Experience

The Museum of Science has long been one of Boston’s most popular cultural institutions, welcoming nearly five million visitors annually through its exhibits, programs, and educational initiatives.

Located at Science Park between Boston and Cambridge, the museum serves as a hub for science education and public engagement throughout New England.

Life Chronicles represents a new type of museum experience, one that uses immersive technology to place visitors directly inside the story rather than asking them to observe it from a distance.

For families, science enthusiasts, dinosaur lovers, and anyone curious about the natural world, it offers an opportunity to experience Earth’s history in a completely different way.

Tickets and Pricing

Life Chronicles opens June 17 at the Museum of Science and is located in the Red Wing on Level 2.

Tickets are $28 for the general public and $23 for Museum members.

Visitors can also save $10 on full-priced Exhibit Halls admission when purchasing Life Chronicles and Exhibit Halls tickets together. The discount applies to Exhibit Halls admission only.

It’s worth noting that Exhibit Halls admission is not required to experience Life Chronicles.

Museum members will also have access to exclusive preview dates on June 13 and June 14 before the public opening.

Before You Visit

Life Chronicles is recommended for guests ages 8 and older.

The experience is not accessible for guests with certain heart conditions, epilepsy, pregnant individuals, or guests using strollers or carrying infants in baby carriers.

Because the experience takes place in an immersive virtual environment, it is also not recommended for visitors who are highly sensitive to vertigo, motion sickness, or nausea.

Guests with specific medical concerns should consult their healthcare provider or contact the Museum of Science before participating.

Experience Earth’s Greatest Story

Few experiences allow you to travel from the origins of life to the age of dinosaurs and beyond in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re fascinated by prehistoric creatures, interested in evolution, or simply looking for something unique to do in Boston this summer, Life Chronicles Boston offers a rare opportunity to walk through the story of life itself.

Tickets are on sale now ahead of the June 17 opening.