Arizona Science Center | Phoenix

The Arizona Science Center is a leading interactive science museum located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, Arizona, within the vibrant Heritage & Science Park. Since its founding in 1984, the center has grown into a premier destination for science education and hands-on learning, dedicated to inspiring curiosity and fostering understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among visitors of all ages.

Architecture and Facilities

Housed in a striking building designed by renowned architect Antoine Predock, the Arizona Science Center spans four floors filled with over 300 interactive exhibits. The design of the building itself reflects a blend of modern aesthetics with desert-inspired elements, creating a space that is visually engaging and conducive to exploration. The facility also includes specialized spaces such as the CREATE® maker space, a Giant Screen Theater, and areas designated for live science demonstrations and workshops.

Exhibits and Interactive Experiences

The center's exhibits cover a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines, offering hands-on activities that encourage visitors to engage directly with scientific concepts. The interactive nature of the exhibits is designed to make science accessible and enjoyable, catering to learners of all ages and backgrounds.

The Power of Poison Exhibit: This temporary or rotating exhibit delves into the fascinating world of toxins and poisons, exploring their biological effects, chemical properties, and historical significance. It engages visitors through immersive displays that explain the dual nature of poisons as both harmful agents and potential medical tools.

CREATE® at Arizona Science Center: A dynamic maker space where creativity meets science and engineering. Visitors can participate in building projects, experiment with robotics, and engage in collaborative problem-solving activities. This space promotes STEAM learning by combining science with art and design.

Giant Screen Theater: The Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater features visually stunning films on science and nature topics, such as “Cities of the Future” and “Superhuman Body.” The theater provides an immersive cinematic experience with large-format screens and powerful sound systems, complementing the educational content of the center.

Live Demonstrations and Science Shows: Throughout the day, the center hosts engaging live presentations where educators perform experiments and demonstrations that illustrate fundamental scientific principles in entertaining and memorable ways.

Educational Programs and Outreach

The Arizona Science Center is deeply committed to community education and outreach. It offers a wide variety of programs tailored to schools, families, and individuals, including science camps, workshops, after-school programs, and special events. These programs aim to provide meaningful STEM learning experiences beyond the museum floor, often integrating real-world science applications.

The center also supports teacher development through professional workshops, helping educators incorporate hands-on science methods into their classrooms. Its outreach initiatives extend into the community, promoting science literacy and providing resources for underserved populations.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

The center ensures a welcoming environment for all visitors. It provides wheelchair access, assistive listening devices, and sensory-friendly accommodations to make exhibits and programs accessible to people with disabilities or sensory sensitivities. The building is equipped with ramps, elevators, and wide pathways to facilitate mobility.

On-site amenities include the MarketCafe, offering a selection of fresh coffee, artisan sandwiches, salads, and light snacks made with locally sourced ingredients. The cafe operates during regular museum hours, providing a convenient spot for visitors to refresh during their visit.

Location and Access

Situated at 600 East Washington Street, the Arizona Science Center is easily accessible from downtown Phoenix and nearby neighborhoods. Visitors can park in the Heritage and Science Park Garage, which offers validated parking discounts for museum guests. There is also convenient access for rideshare services, with designated drop-off and pick-up points near the museum entrance.

Hours and Admission

The center operates Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with early entry for members on weekend mornings at 9:30 a.m. It is closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Admission fees vary by age and category, with options for general admission and all-inclusive tickets that provide access to the Giant Screen Theater and rides such as the Evans Family SkyCycle.

Membership and Benefits

Membership at the Arizona Science Center offers numerous perks, including unlimited free general admission for members and guests, early access on weekends, discounts on special shows and events, and invitations to exclusive members-only programs. This membership encourages repeat visits and deeper engagement with the center’s offerings.

Special Events and Exhibitions

Throughout the year, the center hosts special exhibitions, traveling science shows, and signature events that celebrate scientific discovery and innovation. These events often coincide with national science holidays or thematic months and are designed to draw broader community participation and highlight cutting-edge topics in science and technology.

Summary

The Arizona Science Center is a dynamic institution that merges education, entertainment, and scientific inquiry in a vibrant urban setting. Its comprehensive exhibits and programs provide an interactive learning environment that appeals to families, school groups, and individual science enthusiasts. By fostering hands-on engagement and supporting science literacy, the center plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and informed citizens within Phoenix and beyond.