Airflow Alley

Investigate the invisible forces of air in this high-energy STEAM discovery zone! Developed in partnership with the National Science Foundation and MindSplash, Airflow Alley transforms children into junior scientists as they explore aerodynamics, wind resistance, and the physics of flight through hands-on experimentation. 

Kids control larger-than-life transparent tubes using interactive diverter boxes, launching scarves, balls, and lightweight objects to test how different shapes and materials react to high-performance air streams. Watch colorful manipulatives soar through the system while young learners discover cause-and-effect relationships, problem-solving through trial and error, and the science that makes flight possible. 

Whether your child is adjusting pathways to create new routes or catching scarves as they exit, Airflow Alley provides an unforgettable hands-on science experience that proves learning through play works. 

    • Wind Tunnel System: A custom-made network of pathways and controls 

    • Diverter Boxes: Interactive units that allow you to change the direction of the air 

    • Soaring Manipulatives: Scarves and objects of all shapes and sizes to launch through the tubes 

    • High-Performance Air Systems: Powerful fans that create the lift and drag needed for flight 

    • STEAM Skills: Focuses on Science and Technology 

    • Tangible World Engagement: Manipulating and rearranging objects using fine motor skills 

    • Physical Abilities: Using gross motor skills and sensory input to catch exiting scarves 

    • Observation: Experimenting with how different shapes move through the air 

    • STEAM Skills: Focuses on Science and Technology.

    • Tangible World Engagement: Manipulating and rearranging objects using fine motor skills.

    • Physical Abilities: Using gross motor skills and sensory input to catch exiting scarves.

    • Observation: Experimenting with how different shapes move through the air.

Explore More 

This exhibit is located in Rockenfield House. Also explore: Salem Station | Recollections 

  • A young child with light brown hair in a black shirt and tan pants playing inside a colorful indoor play structure with rubber hoses and panels.
  • A young girl with curly hair, wearing a light green shirt, pink pants, and white sneakers, playing inside a colorful indoor playground with transparent tubes and orange decorations.
  • A young boy in a tie-dye shirt holding colorful fabric pieces, smiling excitedly at an indoor play area with wooden stairs and a woman in the background with a stroller.
  • A young girl in a pink t-shirt and teal shorts is playing at a toy snack vending machine in an indoor play area.
  • A young child with curly blonde hair wearing a beige hoodie and a red shirt, holding an orange mesh bag, looking at a water dispensing station.
  • A young boy in a red shirt and black shorts standing in a colorful indoor space with purple, orange, green, and blue walls, large windows, and a mechanical structure with clear tubes and vents.