Discovery Center of Idaho

About

The Discovery Center of Idaho has inspired curiosity and learning in the Treasure Valley since 1988, serving as the region's dedicated hands-on STEM science center. Located in downtown Boise near the Boise River, the center offers a rotating mix of world-class traveling exhibitions alongside permanent hands-on experiences covering physics, engineering, natural science, and space exploration. The center's Micron Innovation Lab is a dedicated making and tinkering space where visitors of all ages can design, build, and test their own creations using a variety of materials and tools. This engineering design space brings STEAM principles to life through open-ended challenges that emphasize creative problem solving. Permanent exhibitions include the Destination Moon: Apollo 11 Mission experience, a Young Learners area for early childhood, Matter Splatter, Sun Earth Universe, and TINKER THE T-REX. Outdoor paddle boats on the adjacent Boise River provide an extension of the museum experience during warmer months. The museum's STEM Store stocks science kits, books, and educational toys for all ages. The Discovery Center places particular emphasis on reaching underserved communities through its STEAM Kit Lending Program—take-home kits available to schools and families for hands-on learning outside the center—and through EBT reduced admission. Education programs include school field trips, summer camps, virtual programs, and community outreach. The center is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit and serves families across southern Idaho.

Subject Areas

Best For