True to its namesake Renaissance man, The Leonardo began life in concept as an attempt to meld science, art and even current issues under one museum roof. The mix has proved popular in select cities that have launched similar efforts, such as San Jose's Tech Museum and San Francisco's Exploratorium.

The Leonardo's journey from concept to concrete reality wasn't easy. Its official opening date was twice delayed, once due in part to a dispute with the construction contractor. Mayor Ralph Becker, describing tense negotiations over millions in funding for the facility, compared the museum's travails to a "near-death experience."

To read the full story on the Salt Lake Tribune's site,