Sunday was a bittersweet day for fans of a Tampa landmark. It was the last full day for MOSI, the Museum of Science and Industry, at its current location.
- MOSI closes longtime location and prepares to move
- Museum has sat on Fowler Avenue across from the University of South Florida since 1980
- Museum eventually moving to downtown Tampa
- Museum of Science and Industry
The museum has been forced to downsize due to costs and is planning on moving to a new location downtown. The museum has sat on Fowler Avenue across from the University of South Florida since 1980.
A smaller version of MOSI will re-launch on Nov. 18 at is current location and will serve as a proof-of-concept testing ground for ideas that may be used at a new downtown location.
MOSI’s final full day brought out many longtime visitors to say goodbye.
“It’s the last day. I wanted to see it in all its glory before it got taken down and moved,” said frequent visitor Aiden Hughes.
For 37 years – the museum educated and created lifelong memories for many.
“I’m sad. It’s important for kids to see science and learn about things,” said visitor Derek Thomas.
MOSI's new reimagined space will go from 300,000 square feet to just 40,000.
Director of Innovation Anthony Pelaez says the move is due to rising costs.
“MOSI has unfortunately been burdened with a very large infrastructure. It takes a lot to power and air condition,” Pelaez said.
It means many attractions, including the IMAX dome, will be gone.
But museum officials say the scaled down version will have the same vision.
“What we do as far as creating exciting, incredible experiences that inspire will continue on,” Pelaez said.
Many visitors hope that’s true and want to continue supporting the museum.
“As long as MOSI stays open and keeps teaching I’ll be happy,” Hughes said.