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A science lesson and thrill ride all in one.
That's how Discovery Gateway Children's Museum is describing the SkyCycle, an outdoor exhibit opening Saturday that organizers say "takes physics to new heights."
"We're offering an outside adventure, getting kids off their iPads and doing something," added Discovery Gateway Executive Director Laurie Hopkins, watching her staff put the finishing touches on the SkyCycle.
Located on the upper level of the Gateway shopping center across a walkway from the museum, the SkyCycle rides 15 feet in the air. Its harnessed pedalers explore principles of counterbalance and center of gravity during the course of a trip along the 30-foot track.
A 10:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony will kick off the SkyCycle's debut, which also features music, prizes, giveaways and educational activities.
For younger children, a Strider Bike Adventure Zone will be open from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. inside the museum. This "ride and play" zone provides balance bikes for children 18 months to 5 years old.
Officials from Vestar, owners of the west-side downtown shopping center, welcomed the SkyCycle's arrival.
"The Gateway is fully committed to creating a community-driven space that embraces diversity, culture and entertainment," said Edie Trott, Vestar's marketing director. "The SkyCycle brings a fun, unique learning experience for visitors."
Last fall, Vestar initiated a $100 million renovation to boost foot traffic at the mall, which has suffered since City Creek Center opened in 2012. The company plans to turn The Gateway into a regional food-and-beverage, entertainment and social hub, complete with a 167-room hotel.
"Salt Lake City is big enough for both Gateway and City Creek," Hopkins said, noting that her children's museum is contributing to Vestar's efforts with this warm-weather attraction and two other new offerings this summer.
The first will be a cultural exhibit, "Children of Hangzhou," which is set to begin May 19 and run through September. Salt Lake City is one of five cities selected by the Freedom Foundation to get this traveling exhibit, in which visitors are introduced through film to Chinese children in ways that "dispel stereotypes and 'demystify' China."
Hopkins said Discovery Gateway also is expanding its existing outdoor feature, Intermountain Healthcare's Saving Lives exhibit.
Besides the existing helicopter, hospital and command center depicting a rescue tableau, the area will add some behind-the-scenes props — a flight simulator, an interactive hoist and a mechanic shed.
Kid to Kid stores provided some funding for SkyCycle, which is scheduled to be open during regular museum hours: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 7 p.m., and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Rides are $5, or $3 with museum admission.