“Build A Better World: The Future Begins With You” - Museum Of Discovery And Science Opens Phase 1 Of New Permanent Exhibit

Phase 1 debuts three signature experiences that bring South Florida ecosystems to life: the Atlantic and Pacific Coral Reef Aquariums, the Mangrove Mangal Climber and the Everglades Theater, featuring Lilly, an artificial intelligence-powered river otter.

Build a Better World transforms environmental learning into a character-building experience that encourages guests to think critically, act with confidence, cooperate with others and care for the natural world. Designed for children and families, the exhibit strengthens guests’ understanding of South Florida’s ecosystems, deepens their sense of connection to them and empowers them to see how their choices can help shape a stronger future.

“Build a Better World: The Future Begins with You reflects MODS’ commitment to environmental sustainability as a core pillar of learning, inspiring children and families to explore the natural world, build character and discover solutions for a stronger future,” said Joseph P. Cox, President and CEO of MODS. “This vivid and meaningful permanent exhibit brings South Florida ecosystems to life while encouraging guests to think critically, act with confidence, work together and care for the communities and environments we share.”

The Atlantic and Pacific Coral Reef Aquariums, presented by Weston Nissan/Weston Volvo and the Hudson Family Foundation, serve as vibrant anchors for the gallery, surrounding guests with the color, motion and biodiversity of marine ecosystems while highlighting the interconnectedness of life below the surface.

At the heart of the experience is the Mangrove Mangal Climber, presented by JM Family Enterprises, believed to be the world’s largest mangrove-themed climbing structure. The custom-fabricated steel climber transforms active play into environmental discovery, inviting children to move through platforms, cargo nets and mangrove root-inspired forms while building confidence, cooperation and problem-solving skills. Along the way, children discover how mangroves protect shorelines, support wildlife and strengthen coastal systems. Nearby, a Burmese python habitat introduces guests to the impact of invasive species and the importance of ecological balance in the Everglades.

The Everglades Theater, presented by Broward Cultural Division, brings South Florida ecology to life through cinematic storytelling, stunning visuals and interactive technology that makes environmental learning personal, innovative and accessible. Guided by Lilly, an artificial intelligence-powered river otter, guests step into the story of the Everglades through experiences that spark curiosity, build connection and inspire care for this vital ecosystem. The theater opens with interactive games and storytelling designed to deepen understanding of the Everglades and the role each guest can play in protecting it.

Together, these experiences establish Build a Better World as a major new destination within MODS, giving families a visually rich, distinctly South Florida experience that will continue to grow as the exhibit expands in a future phase anticipated for fall 2026.

For more information, visit: https://mods.org/buildabetterworld.

About Lilly Endowment Inc.

Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J. K. Lilly and his sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. While those gifts remain the financial bedrock of the Endowment, the Endowment is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with its founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion. While the Endowment funds programs throughout the United States on an invitational basis to support these causes, especially in the field of religion, it maintains a special commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana.

About the Museum of Discovery and Science

Opened in 1977 as the Discovery Center, today the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) is at the forefront of science education, innovation and exploration. MODS connects people to inspiring science, providing STEM education and cultural experiences for 450,000+ visitors annually in the 150,000 Square Foot Facility. MODS is a 501 (c)(3) Non-Profit Organization that has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for three decades. MODS has added to that distinction by being named Broward’s Hub for Resilience Education by the Board of the Community Foundation of Broward, selected by the LEGO Foundation as one of only 21 museums nationwide to join the Playful Learning Museum Network and awarded the prestigious 2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum Service.

The Museum welcomes visitors from all walks of life. The Museum hours are Monday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. MODS is located downtown at 401 Southwest Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, please visit: https://mods.org. Or call: (954) 467-MODS. Call: (954) 467- 6637.