“Mindbender Mansion” both teases and delights

The Museum of the Rockies is igniting laughter and furrowed brows with its newest exhibit, “Mindbender Mansion,” on display through April 28.

Developed by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry in partnership with the Arkansas Discovery Network, the exhibit features a quirky “mansion” filled with interactive puzzles and brainteasers. While visually simple, the 12 individual brain teasers and the three multiplayer activities are created to test the limits of even the most adept problem-solvers.

The design of the exhibit caters to both adults and children, flaunting a maroon-painted room accented by bright lights and colorful shapes. Upon entrance, museum-goers are greeted by a kiosk  displaying a video that features Mr. E, master brain teaser and curator of the Mindbender Society.

In addition to the video, the kiosk outlines a trio of simple directions: find the puzzles marked with symbols, solve the puzzles and record the answers on your provided clue card and then use the clues to unlock each of the four vaults. By completing these tasks, explained Mr. E, participants will receive four passwords and earn recognition in the exhibit’s Hall of Fame.

Each “room” in the mansion — the parlor, library, map room and kitchen — hosts three puzzles linked to the provided clue card. Participants can expect to create shapes, solve mathematical problems and answer an array of questions.

Of particular note is the assembly-line food puzzle. It was constantly surrounded by both children and adults, and is a great way to entertain the whole family.

The excitement garnered by the exhibit is immediately apparent to any visitor. Participants can expect to spend over an hour solving all of the mansion’s puzzles, offering an afternoon full of laughter and logic. The wide variety of challenges ensures that there is an interest for everyone.

For all who love to work their brains, “Mindbender Mansion” is sure to delight.

The Museum of the Rockies is currently open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For further information on the exhibit details and admission prices, visit the museum’s website at www.museumoftherockies.org or call (406) 994-2251.