Discovery Place Science
Discovery Place Science, Near Charlotte Center City, is an interactive science museum designed to provide hands-on learning experiences for kids of all ages. With over 175 interactive exhibits, a 3D digital theater, and daily live science demonstrations, Discovery Place Science is one of the most popular attractions in Charlotte, NC.
When Did It Open?
Discovery Place Science was founded in 1981 as the Charlotte Nature Museum. Throughout the years, it has grown and expanded to become one of the most popular science museums in the area. In 2008, its name was changed to Discovery Place Science, and it underwent an extensive renovation that included new interactive exhibits and digital theaters.
Today, it offers visitors various experiences, including science discovery labs, animal encounters, 3D movies, and traveling exhibits. It is a place where anyone can explore and discover while learning about our world through hands-on activities.
What to Experience at Discovery Place Science
Whether you're an adult or a family with young children, here are some of the most exciting things to do at the facility:
Interactive Exhibits
Discovery Place Science offers several interactive exhibits that appeal to all ages. From the indoor butterfly garden and hands-on science labs to the outdoor gaga-ball pits and climbing walls, there are plenty of opportunities for kids to explore and learn.
Other popular exhibits include the aquarium, home to over 70 species of fish, and live animal encounters with penguins, snakes, and lizards. The 3D Digital Theatre is another favorite amongst visitors. Here, you can experience an immersive virtual reality exploration of nature or outer space. Visitors also have the option to participate in daily science shows that demonstrate scientific principles in a fun and entertaining way.
Traveling Exhibits
Discovery Place Science also offers traveling exhibits from around the world, providing even more exciting and educational experiences for visitors. These exhibitions offer up-close encounters with live animals, interactive activities, and plenty of artifacts and displays that provide unique insight into history, nature, science, and other topics.
Recent exhibits have included "The Art of the Brick," featuring LEGO art sculptures, "Wilderness in the City," exploring urban wildlife habitats, and "Mummies of the World," giving visitors an inside look at some of the best-preserved mummies in history. The museum also hosts visiting IMAX films throughout the year to give visitors a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.
Outdoor Garden
The outdoor garden in Discovery Place Science offers a unique opportunity to explore and discover nature. It features different species of plants and animals, including butterflies, birds, fish, and reptiles. You can stroll the winding pathways, observe local wildlife, or participate in interactive experiences such as fishing and bird watching.
In addition, the garden includes wetland habitats that are home to frogs, turtles, and other amphibians. You can also find educational signs that provide information about species found in the area.