🔬Science Center🏠 Homeschool ProgramsPaid admission

Pacific Science Center

Seattle, Washington

About

Pacific Science Center (PacSci) is one of the Pacific Northwest's most beloved educational institutions, occupying a seven-acre campus in Seattle's Lower Queen Anne neighborhood adjacent to the Seattle Center. Founded in 1962 as the United States Science Pavilion for the World's Fair, it has grown into a comprehensive science learning destination serving over 500,000 visitors annually. The campus encompasses multiple buildings connected by iconic arched walkways, with indoor and outdoor spaces dedicated to science exploration. Two IMAX theaters offer large-format films on natural history, space, and adventure; the Laser Dome is a domed theater renowned for its spectacular laser light shows synchronized to popular music. Planetarium programs span beginner-level sky tours to advanced astronomy programming. The Tropical Butterfly House is a year-round rainforest habitat housing hundreds of tropical butterflies from around the world in a lush, warm greenhouse environment. The Insect Village provides an up-close look at insects and arachnids. Tide Pool and saltwater marine exhibits connect Seattle visitors to the Pacific ecosystem outside their doors. Wet Science Center, Tech Lab, and Body Works galleries offer hands-on exploration in engineering, human biology, and physical science. Outdoor exhibits and water-play areas provide active science engagement even in Seattle's frequently rainy weather. Pacific Science Center's education programs include school field trips, Science-On-The-Road outreach, homeschool events, summer science camps (in-person and residential), and teacher workshops. General admission includes planetarium shows and daytime laser shows, making it a comprehensive value for science-curious families.

🏠 Homeschool Programs

This institution offers dedicated programming for homeschooling families. Visit the website for details.

Subject Areas

🔬 Science💻 Technology🌌 Space & Astronomy🐾 Animals & Wildlife🌊 Marine & Ocean🌿 Nature & Environment

Best For

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 All Ages👨‍👩‍👧 Families🏫 School Groups👶 Early Childhood (0–5)🎒 Elementary (6–10)🧑 Tweens & Teens (11–17)

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Hours of Operation

Wednesday–Sunday 10am–5pm (summer: daily). Check website for seasonal hours.

Hours change seasonally — verify before visiting.

Admission

Paid admission

General admission includes Planetarium and daytime laser shows. IMAX and evening Laser Dome require additional tickets. Members free.

✓ Membership available

ASTC

ASTC Travel Passport Program

Members of the Association of Science and Technology Centers' Travel Passport Program offer free or discounted admission to members of other participating institutions. Over 300 science centers worldwide participate.

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47 other places in our directory accept this membership: