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Great Lakes Science Center
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Science & Nature Museum
Children's Museum
Special Collection
Great Lakes Science Center Description
With an Omnimax theater and more than 400 exhibits, this science center embraces a "show, don't tell" philosophy to help youngsters understand complex ideas. From a pint-sized space shuttle landing simulator to a virtual reality machine that lets kids hang glide through the Grand Canyon, you'll have a hard time convincing them they're learning. Three huge floors of science-based activities are broken up according to theme, but each area has something kids in any age group will enjoy.
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: The Polymer Fun House and its outdoor waterplay stations (seasonal) on the second floor are perfect for the pint-sized crowd. Kids 7 and younger (you'll be quizzed at the door) are welcome in this socks-only environment that includes a dress-up center, computer stations, a jumping castle, and more that all showcase the way polymers work at a preschool level.
Planning Notes
- Plan it out. Resist the temptation to head straight to the exhibits. Check the giant screens to your left as you enter to see what events are planned for the day or you might miss incredibly cool presentations like "Bubblemania!" (especially good for younger kids), "Electricity: the Shocking Truth," and "Einstein: Hands-on." Events are also listed on the Web site.
- Cool stuff. Don't skip the gift shop, where you'll find everything from glow-in-the-dark T-shirts to science experiments kids can try at home.
Just the Facts
Hours: Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fees: Less than $10
Recommended Time: Half day
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