Imagine stepping into a world where words dance around you. That world exists at Planet Word, a museum dedicated to the power and beauty of language. Planet Word is in the historic Franklin School in Washington D.C.
Have you ever seen a museum come alive with your voice? Planet Word is the world’s first voice-activated museum. Its interactive galleries engage visitors of all ages. They increase enthusiasm for the power of language.
As you approach the entrance, prepare to be greeted by the Speaking Willow. This immersive metal sculpture murmurs in hundreds of languages as you pass through its branches. Rafael Lozano-Hemmer created this permanent installation.
Inside Planet Word, you’ll discover the true power of words. See how words bring joy and foster empathy. Learn how they connect people from all over the world.
On the upper floor, explore exhibits like First Words. This exhibit showcases how we learn our first language. The Spoken World will amaze you with the diversity of languages. Speakers and signers of 31 different languages are featured. Where Do Words Come From dives into the story of the English language. This exhibit features a 22-foot-tall wall of words. It explores the origin of many commonly used words.
The middle floor is perhaps the most adventurous. Test your public speaking skills. Use words to transform the color in the room around you. Browse a magical library filled with literary secrets. Sing an iconic song karaoke-style. Step into a humor gallery to determine the funniest member of your crew.
On the lower floor, share a story of how words have changed your life. You can do this in a recording booth. Hear stories from others via the Words Matter exhibit. I’m Sold showcases how advertisers use language to entice. Craft an ad yourself.
Don’t miss Lexicon Lane on the third floor. Go on a word-sleuthing adventure. Uncover hidden clues in this immersive puzzle-solving experience.
Planet Word also houses Present Perfect. This is a shop with a delightful selection of gifts. Immigrant Food is also at Planet Word. It features international menus that honor the gastronomic contributions of immigrants.
The Franklin School is a stunning space. It has grand windows and intricate ironwork. It also has lofty ceilings. Solomon Group carefully integrated custom-fabricated exhibitry and A/V technology. This infuses life back into language. They preserved the historic character of the space.
One of the most impressive feats is the Word Wall. It is 22-feet-tall and 40-feet-wide. The wall appears sentient and projects animations. These animations respond to visitors’ speech. The Word Wall gets smarter each time.
Planet Word is more than just a museum. It is a celebration of communication. It is an exploration of culture. It is an experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the written and spoken word. As you leave, consider donating to Planet Word. Your donation helps spread the power, beauty, and fun of language.