🔬Science Center🏠 Homeschool ProgramsPaid admission

Science Center of Iowa

401 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy

About

The Science Center of Iowa is downtown Des Moines's dedicated hub for hands-on science learning, occupying a 110,000-square-foot facility that serves children and families across the state. Opened in its current building in 2005, it has grown into one of Iowa's most visited cultural attractions and a focal point for STEM education in the region. The center's galleries explore topics from physics and engineering to biology and earth science through interactive exhibits designed to encourage experimentation and creative thinking. Young visitors can explore a simulated construction site, experiment with water and air pressure, and investigate the science behind everyday phenomena. A dedicated makerspace — the Ingenuity Lab — invites children to build, tinker, and problem-solve with hands-on materials. The Blank IMAX Dome Theater, Iowa's only IMAX Dome, projects science documentaries and films on its massive domed screen, offering immersive programming for school groups and families. Seasonal traveling exhibits supplement the permanent galleries with fresh content throughout the year. The Science Center of Iowa offers extensive programming for school groups from across the state, including curriculum-tied field trips and outreach programs. Homeschool families are served through dedicated homeschool programs offered on select weekdays, with curriculum-aligned lab experiences for multiple grade levels. The center's location in downtown Des Moines is accessible by public transit and within walking distance of the Iowa State Capitol and Principal Riverwalk.

🏠 Homeschool Programs

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

Subject Areas

🔬 Science💻 Technology⚙️ Engineering➗ Math🔧 Making & Tinkering🌌 Space & Astronomy

Best For

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

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Hours of Operation

Tuesday–Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 12pm–5pm. Closed Mondays. See website for seasonal hours.

Hours change seasonally — verify before visiting.

Admission

Paid admission

See website for current admission pricing. IMAX films require separate ticket.

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: