Discovery Center at Lawrence Livermore National Labs
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National High Magnetic Field Laboratory

4.8
·224 reviews·Tallahassee, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Annual Open House (mid-late Feb)

Public access to most areas.

CrowdHigh
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Discovery Center at Lawrence Livermore National Labs

National High Magnetic Field Laboratory

Best Time

Annual Open House (mid-late Feb)

Public access to most areas.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

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.

4.8
(224 reviews)

"Brilliant people who are always working to help us!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World's Strongest Magnet

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

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

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

The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab) is a world-class research facility. While public tours are limited, special open house events offer a glimpse into groundbreaking science. Check their website for upcoming dates and registration details to avoid disappointment.

Understanding the Science

MagLab is home to the world's strongest magnets. Even if you can't visit in person, virtual tours and online resources offer fascinating insights into high magnetic field science and its applications. Prepare to be amazed by the power of magnets!

Best Times

When
Annual Open House (mid-late Feb)
Why
Public access to most areas.
Crowd
High
When
Virtual Field Trips
Why
Accessible from anywhere!
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🧲✨ Our middle school STEM students took a virtual field trip to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, where they uncovered the science behind powerful magnets. Then, they put their knowledge to the test by designing their own Magnetic Maze Challenge! #csusa #stem #science #technology #engineering #math #education #maze #learning #magnet #middleschool
inprepnaples
10 likes • 645 views

🎯 Check for Open House Dates

The MagLab hosts an annual open house, usually in February. This is your best chance for a public visit! Reddit

💻 Explore Virtual Tours

Can't make it in person? Many virtual field trips and online resources are available to explore the lab's wonders. TikTokInstagram

@nationalmaglab The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Tallahassee is home to the world's strongest magnet! During its construction, a wireless Ron 2501 load cell was used to install the coils in the housing. We're proud to see an Eilon system used in groundbreaking (and Guinness world record-breaking) research. ... #maglab #magnets #magneticfield #guinessworldrecord #scale #scale...
eilonengineering
10 likes • 320 views
Floating fruit? Behold the magic of magnets! 🧲 The NSF-supported National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, or MagLab, does much more than levitate objects – this unique, world-class facility provides powerful instruments and magnets to advance discoveries across physics, materials science, chemistry, biology and engineering. Now NSF is investing an additional $195.5 million in @nationalmaglab ov...
nsfgov
191 likes • 8.5K views

🗣️ Engage with Students

If you visit during an event, engineering students are often on hand to share insights and answer questions. Reddit

💡 Learn About Helium Conservation

Discover why helium is crucial for superconductors and the importance of not wasting it. Reddit

🧲 This magnet is so strong that it can lift an entire car! But why is it important, and what can we learn from studying magnetic fields? The world’s most powerful magnet is located at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Tallahassee, Florida. It is a superconducting magnet with a strength of 45 tesla, which is over 400,000 times stronger than the Earth’s magnetic field! You may be wond...
revealerofmysteries
6K likes • 107.9K views

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! Reddit

💻 Explore Virtual Tours

Can't make it in person? Many virtual field trips and online resources are available to explore the lab's wonders. TikTokInstagram

🗣️ Engage with Students

If you visit during an event, engineering students are often on hand to share insights and answer questions. Reddit

💡 Learn About Helium Conservation

Discover why helium is crucial for superconductors and the importance of not wasting it. Reddit

🚗 Parking & Food Trucks

During open house events, food trucks are usually available at the front. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(224 reviews)

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

World's strongest magnet
Engaging science demonstrations
Informative student guides

What People Dislike

Limited public access
Strict tour scheduling

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The annual open house at MagLab is generally a free event for the public, designed to showcase their work and inspire interest in science. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🔬 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. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

During the annual open house, food trucks are typically set up outside the facility, offering a variety of options for visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory is a fantastic destination for families interested in science! During their annual open house, kids can experience exciting demonstrations like levitating objects and frozen balloons that make learning about magnets fun and memorable. InstagramReddit Many visitors report that their children are captivated by the sheer power and visual appeal of the magnetic experiments. Instagram

Beyond the open house, MagLab offers summer camps for students in grades K-12, providing an immersive STEM experience. Reddit 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. TikTokInstagram It's a great way to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists!

🔬 Science Enthusiasts & Students

For anyone fascinated by science, the MagLab is a must-see. As home to the world's strongest magnet, it offers a unique opportunity to witness groundbreaking research in physics, materials science, chemistry, and biology. Instagram+1 Engaging with the knowledgeable students and researchers during public events can provide invaluable insights into academic and career paths in STEM. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Power of High Magnetic Fields

The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (MagLab) is a premier research institution dedicated to understanding and utilizing the effects of extremely powerful magnetic fields. It houses the world's strongest superconducting magnet, a staggering 45 tesla device that pushes the boundaries of scientific discovery. This immense magnetic force allows researchers to probe the fundamental properties of matter in ways impossible elsewhere. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

Visiting MagLab: What to Expect

Visiting the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory is a unique experience, primarily centered around their annual open house event, typically held in mid to late February. This is the main opportunity for the public to tour the facility and witness the incredible science firsthand. Reddit During this event, visitors can explore various sections of the lab, see impressive demonstrations, and interact with the brilliant minds behind the research. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit 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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit 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. Reddit 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. Instagram

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