Da Vinci’s Genius Gets Broad Canvas

“Leonardo da Vinci: Scientist, Inventor, Artist,” which runs March 3 through Sept. 1 at Boston’s Museum of Science, promises to provide the largest exhibit ever of the genius of the ultimate Renaissance man. Boston is the only U.S. stop for the show, which premiered in Europe.

Although visitors won’t be seeing the “Mona Lisa” or “The Last Supper,” they can roam 15,000 square feet of space that includes 15 working models of Da Vinci’s concepts for helicopters, parachutes and other inventions; 170 reproductions of his drawings and other works; 24 CD-ROM information stations; and 40 original works of art, including Da Vinci’s only known sculptures (“Bust of Christ as a Youth” and “The Wax Horse”).

The Boston museum has added several features to the traveling exhibit. These include a 10-minute multimedia show; a 20-minute live play; and a dozen interactive stations where the curious can copy Da Vinci’s backward writing, build a model wooden arch bridge and reproduce his experiments with water, light and other forces.

Tickets are $10 adults, $8 for seniors and children 3 to 14. Reservations: (617) 523-1441. The museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays through Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays; extended hours begin July 5.

About 20 hotels offer packages that generally include tickets with the rooms. Information: (888) 733-2678.