South Florida Cox Science Center and Aquarium | Palm Beach

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium, formerly known as the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, is a prominent educational attraction located in West Palm Beach, Florida. It offers a wide range of exhibits and experiences focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), along with marine biology and space science.

Location

Address: 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, FL 33405

Setting: The center is situated near Dreher Park and is easily accessible from I-95, making it a convenient stop for families, school groups, and tourists.

Main Attractions and Facilities

Aquarium

Features over 10,000 gallons of saltwater and freshwater tanks.

Exhibits showcase native Florida aquatic species such as:

Sharks

Stingrays

Seahorses

Coral reef fish

Shipwreck Cove: A themed exhibit resembling a sunken ship, housing marine creatures in a dynamic, educational setting.

Coral reef tank: A 6-foot-long display that educates visitors on reef ecosystems and conservation.

Planetarium

A full-dome digital planetarium with a 360-degree immersive experience.

Offers daily shows with topics ranging from astronomy to deep space, and even mythology.

Shows use advanced projection and sound systems, allowing visitors to travel virtually through the universe.

Science and Tech Exhibits

Over 100 hands-on exhibits that cover:

Physics

Robotics

Renewable energy

Health sciences

Earth and space science

Interactive setups allow children and adults to learn through experimentation and play.

Fisher Family Science Trail

A quarter-mile outdoor science trail featuring 15 interactive exhibits.

Includes:

A Physics Forest

Outdoor exhibits on solar energy

A "Wind Tunnel"

A dinosaur walk with life-sized models

Nature and conservation zones

Mini Golf Course

An 18-hole conservation-themed course.

Designed by golf architect Jim Fazio and pro golfer Gary Nicklaus.

Each hole includes educational panels about environmental conservation and native wildlife.

The Discovery Center

A dedicated area for children under 6.

Soft play zones, age-appropriate science toys, and exploratory stations are included.

Encourages early learning and curiosity in a safe environment.

Education and Programs

Field Trips: Aligned with Florida science curriculum standards.

STEM Camps: Spring, summer, and winter camps for students in grades K–8.

Workshops & Labs: The center runs various short-term programs in robotics, chemistry, marine biology, and coding.

Scout Programs: Badge-earning opportunities for Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

After-School Programs and Outreach: Engages students throughout Palm Beach County with mobile labs and in-school activities.

Special Events and Exhibitions

Hosts rotating national exhibits (e.g., Dinosaur Revolution, Mindbender Mansion).

Annual events like "Spooky Science Night", STEM Saturdays, and Laser Light Shows in the planetarium.

Offers birthday party packages and rental spaces for private events or corporate functions.

Hours of Operation

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Admission and Discounts

General Admission varies by age:

Adults, children, and seniors pay tiered rates.

Planetarium shows may cost extra.

Museums for All Program:

Visitors receiving SNAP or WIC benefits receive admission for $3 per person (up to 5 people per EBT/WIC card).

Valid government ID and EBT/WIC card required.

Planetarium tickets not included in discount.

Accessibility and Amenities

Wheelchair accessible throughout.

On-site café and gift shop.

Free parking is available.

Stroller-friendly paths both indoors and on the science trail.

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is considered one of the top family-friendly educational destinations in South Florida, ideal for children, students, and adults who want to explore science in an interactive, engaging environment.