
National High Magnetic Field Laboratory
Home to the world's strongest magnet, MagLab is a premier research facility pushing the boundaries of science with powerful magnetic fields.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Public access to most areas.

National High Magnetic Field Laboratory
Best Time
Public access to most areas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the world's strongest magnet, MagLab is a premier research facility pushing the boundaries of science with powerful magnetic fields.
"Brilliant people who are always working to help us!"

🎯 Check for Open House Dates
The MagLab hosts an annual open house, usually in February. This is your best chance for a public visit!
💻 Explore Virtual Tours
Can't make it in person? Many virtual field trips and online resources are available to explore the lab's wonders.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World's Strongest Magnet
Witness the sheer power of the 45 tesla superconducting magnet, a Guinness World Record holder. It's a testament to human ingenuity.

Interactive Science Demonstrations
Experience hands-on exhibits, like levitating objects and frozen balloons, that make complex magnetic principles easy to grasp.

Behind-the-Scenes Research
Learn about cutting-edge research in physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering conducted at this unique facility.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the MagLab
Understanding the Science
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check for Open House Dates
The MagLab hosts an annual open house, usually in February. This is your best chance for a public visit!
💻 Explore Virtual Tours
Can't make it in person? Many virtual field trips and online resources are available to explore the lab's wonders.
🗣️ Engage with Students
If you visit during an event, engineering students are often on hand to share insights and answer questions.
💡 Learn About Helium Conservation
Discover why helium is crucial for superconductors and the importance of not wasting it.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check for Open House Dates
The MagLab hosts an annual open house, usually in February. This is your best chance for a public visit!
💻 Explore Virtual Tours
Can't make it in person? Many virtual field trips and online resources are available to explore the lab's wonders.
🗣️ Engage with Students
If you visit during an event, engineering students are often on hand to share insights and answer questions.
💡 Learn About Helium Conservation
Discover why helium is crucial for superconductors and the importance of not wasting it.
🚗 Parking & Food Trucks
During open house events, food trucks are usually available at the front.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the groundbreaking research and the sheer power of the magnets at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. The annual open house is a highlight, offering engaging demonstrations and insights from knowledgeable students. However, some visitors have noted that access can be restrictive outside of these specific events, and communication could be improved.
"Both of my sons went to the Florida State University research school so we had to do field trips there and you learn about the incredible work they do! They also explained to everyone that helium is a limited resource, that it’s what they need to keep the superconductor cold enough to operate, and that we should not be wasting it and party balloons! Brilliant people who are always working to help us!"
West Edwards
"Very cool place once a year in mid to late February they have an open house and allow the public to go in most areas of the building. Doing some very cool experiments. there are food trucks in the front during this event. Kids love the potato gun and the Frozen balloons."
Walter Class
"I'm DEFINITELY with @Anthony Barney. It may be nice, it may be the largest; however, we will never know. We spoke a very helpful and informative mechanical engineering student who gave us great information. He was in the middle of studying for a thermal exam, but took time to assist us. He was so very helpful. He suggested we go over to the high magnetic laboratory to see the magnetic and then tour the classes. Welp, when we entered the building, the security guard Justin, looked at us and continued his conversation. Once he finally finished his conversation, he said yes, what do you need. That irritated me but, I let it go. I informed him we were doing a self guided tour today with FSU, our son is majoring in engineering, and that one of the students suggested we come here to tour the magnet. He said, um no. That tour needed to have been scheduled 3 weeks ago or we should have come yesterday. People were working and doing research and that wasn't something he could allow. I asked for his name and he provided it and then asked anything else. I really wanted the hateful, nasty Janise to come out, but my son was watching and I wanted him to see how he should handle someone like "Justin" when his intelligent, educated parents weren't with him. I told Justin his name was enough. Hence this post. Even if those were the guidelines, it could have been given in a better way. Do better!!"
Janise Pettigrew
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab) is located in Tallahassee, Florida, on the campus of Florida State University. If you're driving, general campus navigation will lead you to the vicinity. Public transportation options may be limited, so checking local transit routes is advisable.
Parking availability can vary, especially during special events. For the annual open house, there are typically food trucks at the front, suggesting some form of visitor access. It's best to check FSU's campus parking guidelines or specific event information for the most up-to-date details.
MagLab is primarily a research facility, so general public access is limited. The best opportunity for a visit is during their annual open house, usually held in mid to late February. Otherwise, virtual tours and online content are excellent alternatives.
The campus is generally easy to navigate. If you're using GPS, inputting the laboratory's address or 'National High Magnetic Field Laboratory' should guide you. Look for signs directing to FSU research facilities.
While spontaneous tours are generally not permitted due to ongoing research, the annual open house provides access to many areas. For specific educational groups, virtual tours and pre-arranged visits might be possible, but require significant advance planning.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For the annual open house, tickets are typically not required, as it's an event designed for public engagement. However, it's always wise to check the official MagLab website for any updates or registration requirements closer to the event date.
As a research institution, MagLab operates on research schedules. Public access is primarily through special events like the open house. For these events, hours are usually specified in advance.
If you're aiming for the annual open house, mark your calendar for mid-to-late February. If you're part of an educational group seeking a special visit, planning should begin months in advance, as these are often highly sought after and require coordination.
The annual open house at MagLab is generally a free event for the public, designed to showcase their work and inspire interest in science.
No, spontaneous walk-in visits to see the magnets are not allowed due to the sensitive nature of the research and safety protocols. Access is strictly controlled and typically limited to scheduled tours or special public events.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
During the open house, you can explore various labs, witness powerful magnetic field demonstrations (like frozen balloons!), learn about cutting-edge research, and interact with scientists and students.
Absolutely! Kids often love the demonstrations, such as the 'potato gun' and frozen balloons, which make science fun and engaging. Summer camps are also available for grades K-12.
The 45 tesla magnet is the world's strongest superconducting magnet, a Guinness World Record holder. It enables groundbreaking research across various scientific disciplines by generating incredibly powerful magnetic fields.
Photography policies can vary. During public events like the open house, photography is generally permitted in designated areas. It's always best to confirm specific rules with staff on-site.
MagLab supports research in physics, materials science, chemistry, biology, and engineering. They use their powerful magnets to study everything from quantum materials to biological processes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During the annual open house, food trucks are typically set up outside the facility, offering a variety of options for visitors.
While specific policies might vary, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you're visiting for an extended event. However, consuming food and beverages inside research areas is usually prohibited.
Since MagLab is located on the Florida State University campus, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding university area and in downtown Tallahassee.
📸 📸 Photography
During the open house, the areas with visible magnet components and demonstration setups offer great photo opportunities. The sheer scale of the equipment is impressive.
Yes, during public access events, you can typically photograph the magnet and related infrastructure. Capturing the immense scale and technological marvel is a highlight for many visitors.
While generally allowed during public events, it's always wise to be mindful of ongoing research and sensitive equipment. Avoid photographing areas that are clearly marked as restricted or where staff indicate it's not permitted.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the magnets and facilities. However, even a smartphone camera can capture the impressive visuals, especially during demonstrations.
Be respectful of researchers and other visitors. Avoid flash photography if it might disrupt ongoing work or demonstrations. Always ask if unsure about specific areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the open house, MagLab offers summer camps for students in grades K-12, providing an immersive STEM experience. Even if you can't visit in person, their virtual field trips and online educational content are designed to be engaging for younger audiences, making complex science accessible and exciting. It's a great way to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists!
🔬 Science Enthusiasts & Students
If you're a student considering FSU, a visit (especially during the open house) can be incredibly inspiring. The lab's resources and the caliber of research conducted there are truly world-class. Even if you can't visit physically, exploring their extensive online resources and virtual tours offers a deep dive into the cutting-edge science happening at the forefront of magnetic field technology.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of High Magnetic Fields
These high magnetic fields are crucial for advancements in a wide array of scientific disciplines. In physics, they help scientists study quantum phenomena and exotic materials. Materials science benefits from the ability to investigate the electronic and magnetic behaviors of new substances. Chemistry uses these fields to analyze molecular structures, while biology and medicine explore how magnetic fields interact with biological systems, potentially leading to new diagnostic and therapeutic tools.
MagLab's commitment extends beyond just generating powerful fields. They provide world-class user facilities, offering researchers from around the globe access to their unique instrumentation. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and accelerates scientific breakthroughs. While direct public access is limited, their dedication to sharing knowledge through virtual tours and educational outreach makes the marvels of high magnetic field science accessible to all.
Visiting MagLab: What to Expect
While the facility is a hub of cutting-edge research, it's important to manage expectations regarding spontaneous visits. Due to the sensitive nature of ongoing experiments and safety protocols, general public access is restricted. However, the open house is designed to be highly engaging for all ages, featuring interactive exhibits and explanations that demystify complex scientific concepts. For those unable to attend in person, MagLab offers a wealth of virtual resources, including virtual field trips and online educational materials, allowing you to explore their work from anywhere.
Community feedback highlights the value of these visits. Visitors often praise the informative and patient guides, including enthusiastic engineering students who are eager to share their knowledge. However, some visitors have noted that communication and access policies can sometimes be rigid, emphasizing the importance of advance planning and adherence to scheduled tour times if applicable. The experience is often described as awe-inspiring, with many leaving with a newfound appreciation for the power of magnets and the dedication of the scientists.





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