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A key mission for museums is to engage a large and diverse public audience in science learning (Macdonald, 1997). To that end, science museums attempt to use immersive technologies in entertaining, socially oriented, and innovative ways. An example is the use of augmented reality (AR) to overlay virtual objects onto the real-world (Azuma, Baillot, Behringer, Feiner, Julier, & MacIntyre, 2001).We used a Design Based Research (DBR) approach to develop and test four features of an AR experience to promote place-based science learning in an museum setting. While quantitative differences were not found among conditions in knowledge gained, significant learning gains were seen from pre to post, illustrating the potential for place-based informal science learning. Incorporating AR technology into museum exhibits can update them with 21st tools to support visitor engagement in the learning experience. This research contributes to understanding of usability and logistical issues for different AR designs for a public, outdoor informal settings.