Orlando Science Center | Orlando

The Orlando Science Center (OSC) is an interactive science museum located in Orlando, Florida. Established in 1955 and reopened in its current location in 1997, it spans 193,000 square feet and attracts over half a million visitors annually. The center aims to inspire curiosity and a love for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) through exhibits, educational programs, and special events.

Key Attractions

Life
The newly redesigned Life exhibit is a $13.5 million reimagining of the former NatureWorks and KidsTown. It focuses on Florida's diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, cypress swamps, and more. The exhibit showcases various species, habitats, and environmental science topics.

KidsTown
This exhibit is aimed at children aged 7 and under. It’s an interactive, hands-on area where kids can explore a miniature town, engaging in imaginative play. They can learn about concepts like construction, grocery shopping, medical practices, and more through activities designed to teach problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity.

Kinetic Zone
A space dedicated to exploring the principles of physics, forces, and energy through fun, hands-on experiments. Visitors can design, build, and test their creations, learning about gravity, electricity, Newton’s Laws, and more. This area encourages critical thinking and exploration.

The Hive: A Makerspace
The Hive is a collaborative area designed to inspire innovation. Equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and crafting stations, it provides a space for visitors to explore the world of makers, designers, and innovators. It’s a perfect space for those interested in technology, design, and hands-on creativity.

Fusion: A STEAM Gallery
This exhibit blends art and science by showcasing works that fuse both fields. It highlights how art and technology can work together, with interactive installations and exhibits that explore the connections between visual arts and science, offering an opportunity for reflection and creative expression.

DinoDigs
A fossil exhibit designed to explore the prehistoric past. It features fossil replicas of dinosaurs and ancient sea creatures. A standout feature of this exhibit is Jurassic Ridge, a giant dig pit where visitors can experience what it’s like to be a paleontologist, unearthing fossilized remnants of ancient creatures.

Our Planet
This exhibit delves into the natural processes that shape Earth. It offers an engaging look at geological forces, weather, and ecosystems. It also explores the mysteries of the Solar System, with a particular emphasis on the contributions of the NASA Hubble Space Telescope and other space research tools.

Crosby Observatory
The Crosby Observatory houses Florida’s largest publicly accessible refractor telescope. It offers daytime solar viewing and nighttime stargazing events, where visitors can observe celestial bodies and explore astronomy. The observatory is a key part of the center’s mission to engage visitors with science beyond the Earth.

Dr. Phillips CineDome
This is a massive, 8,000-square-foot domed theater offering immersive experiences. It showcases both educational and Hollywood films, with a focus on science-related topics. The CineDome is one of the largest theaters in the region, offering an exceptional audiovisual experience.

Hours and Admission

Operating Hours: The Orlando Science Center is open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Admission Fees:

Adults (12+): $24

Children (2–11): $18

Seniors (55+): $22

Children under 2: Free

Discounts are available for military personnel, first responders, and Florida educators.

Special Events

Science Night Live: This is an adults-only event that mixes entertainment and learning. It includes activities like science trivia, live experiments, 3D films, special presentations, and stargazing through the large refractor telescope.

Otronicon: A highly interactive annual event that celebrates innovation in gaming, virtual reality, robotics, and technology. It’s a major draw for tech enthusiasts, offering hands-on demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and workshops.

Block Party: A fun, family-oriented event focused on LEGO building. LEGO enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy creating and exploring with these iconic bricks. The event often features workshops with professional LEGO builders and provides opportunities for collaborative construction projects.

Location and Accessibility

The Orlando Science Center is located at 777 E. Princeton Street, Orlando, Florida. It’s easily accessible by car and public transportation and offers parking for visitors. The center is designed to be accessible to guests with disabilities, with features like ramps, elevators, and specially designed exhibits for people of all abilities.

Educational Programs and Outreach

The Orlando Science Center offers a variety of educational programs, camps, and workshops for children and adults. These programs are designed to foster curiosity in science and engage participants with hands-on learning experiences. Programs are tailored to different age groups and cover topics in biology, physics, astronomy, engineering, and more.

Overall, the Orlando Science Center is a vibrant and dynamic destination for anyone interested in science, innovation, and exploration. Whether you're a child discovering the world of nature or an adult fascinated by space, there’s something for everyone. It’s a place where learning meets fun and curiosity sparks creativity.