Narnia exhibit at Arizona Science Center

I've haven't seen the Narnia movies. But I'm planning to now after taking a quick peek at the new exhibit at Arizona Science Center.

I know the story - I remember it vaguely from my youth - but since my kids didn't beg to see the movie, we never went. I always was curious to see it on the big screen - the previews seemed so grand, but you know how it is as a busy mom.

I've been hearing a lot about this Narnia exhibit that opens June 7. That's has to do a lot with marketing and because the Arizona Republic - my employer - is a sponsor.

The experience - and it is one - starts with you in a room. You hear the sound of rain and music from a soundtrack. Then the wardrobe doors open. You see a bunch of fur coat on hangers and hat boxes on shelves, and then you quickly take note of a snowy forest scene that include fake snow gently cascading from above.

You'll see several scenes from the movie, costumes, props (such as the White Witch's sleigh or the insides of Trufflehunter's tree home) and interactive displays. Kids will jump hoops to sit on the icy throne and stick their hands on the frozen waterfall display. They'll beg to work the catapult, but only staff can. But they can make coats of arms on three computer screens, try to pick up one of two swords on display and feel the weight of body armor.

I admitted not seeing the movie with the kids yet to CS Lewis' step son, Douglas Gresham, who is co-producer of "The Chronicles of Narnia" films. He looked in disbelief when he heard my kids are 8 and 11.

"It means so much more if you've read the story or seen it on the big screen," he said.

And I could see that in the faces of a few kids that got a sneak peek. "Look, Mom, this is from that scene!" "Ooh, cool!"

So we plan to watch the movies before we go back later in the summer.

Is it worth it? The cost is $20 for adults and $16 for kids (but it includes general museum entry, normally $7 for kids and $9 for adults) - if you are not a science center member, which is why membership is so wonderful there (and it pays itself off in two visits for a family of four). Cost is just $11 and $9 for members, and members get into the museum free.

I thought it was great because I can see it piquing the curiosity of many kids to learn more about the story or history. But I like the member prices better (similar to going to an IMAX film but this is hands on), so I guess I better renew my membership that expired last month while I was vacationing at mom's house. :) I'll need the savings when I go back with the family.

Arizona Moms Editor Yvette Armendariz shares stories about raising her kids and tips for busy parents in her Time-starved (goddess) Mom blog. She and her husband are raising two children, ages 8 and 11.