Cranbrook Institute of Science is a premier regional museum of natural history, founded in 1904 and serving over 200,000 visitors per year. The Institute features the Acheson Planetarium, the Bat Zone, the Erb Family Science Garden and a variety of different exhibits and events. It offers a wide variety of youth programs, events, shows and tour options for all ages. Tools to plan your visit are available on the Institute's website. It also features a science shop and cafe, and hosts birthdays and private parties.