Visiting Discovery Center
Discovery Center is an ideal destination because it has something for everyone - families, school groups, adults, and children. We provide a playground of hands-on, interactive exhibits that elicit a surprising, delightful, and inspiring educational experience to make learning science, technology, engineering and math more accessible and relevant to everyday life. Long respected as the leader in the region for unique and engaging educational experiences, Discovery Center has more than 200 interactive, hands-on exhibits in more than 50,000 square feet of space and approximately 40 educational programs on various topics of science from geology to chemistry, physics to health and life sciences, culture to nanotechnology, and much more, targeting birth to 90+ years of age.
Tips to Make Your Visit More Enjoyable:
- Where should I park? Free parking is available on the Discovery Center parking lot on the east side of the building. Free street parking is also available along St. Louis Street and McDaniel Street.
- Is there a place to eat at Discovery Center? Discovery Center's lobby area is available with tables and chairs for snacks. No food or beverages are allowed in the museum area. You may bring in your own snacks and beverages and take a break from the museum and eat in our lobby. There are many dining options available within walking distance of Discovery Center. If you decide to leave the museum for a meal, you may re-enter with your receipt.
- Does the Discovery Center have strollers? There are a limited number of strollers available on a first come basis. It is recommended you bring your own stroller. Access to all exhibit floors is available with elevators.
- Does the Discovery Center have wheelchairs? There are a limited number of wheelchairs available on a first come basis. It is recommended you bring your own wheelchair. Access to all exhibit floors is available with elevators.
- Are there lockers or storage areas at Discovery Center? No lockers or storage areas are available at DCS. There are coat racks available in the lobby area.
- What is the pet policy at Discovery Center? Appropriately documented guide dogs and animals for assisted therapy are welcome.
- What is the weapons policy at Discovery Center? No weapons are allowed in Discovery Center.
- Can I leave the same day and come back? You may leave and come back in the same day as long as you have your receipt.
- What is the best way to explore the exhibits? Discovery Center's unique environment allows visitors to explore and discover at their own pace. Some of our exhibit areas will have signage with suggestions on how to use the exhibit, the types of questions you may want to ask yourself as you are exploring, and help explain what might be taking place as you are conducting your exploration. You will be amazed at how much fun you are having while learning fun science facts. Some exhibits will require a Discovery Center docent to help you perform the experiments. These exhibits usually are staffed by Discovery Center docents at a various times throughout the day. Signage will be posted by those exhibits to let you know when the exhibit will be staffed. Discovery Center docents will also be walking throughout the museum during operating hours. If you have a question about an exhibit, please be sure and stop them. They are happy to stop and play with you. Some exhibit areas are designed specifically for preschoolers. Be sure and stop by Wonderland for your children five and under. Our goal is to provide you with experiences that inspire you to want to learn something more and excite you to continue life-long learning. After your visit, please let us know how we did!
Please be sure and check with our front desk when you arrive to learn about any special exhibits or educational programs you may want to visit while you are here.
Discovery Center is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and relys on admissions, memberships, program fees, and donations to continue our educational mission, programs and exhibits.
