When it comes to educational institutions in Phoenix, Arizona Science Center is one of the most popular destinations for STEM enthusiasts. With a wide range of exhibits, interactive displays, and hands-on activities, the Center offers visitors of all ages a fun and engaging way to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Let's take a closer look at what makes Arizona Science Center such a special place to visit.
Arizona Science Center was founded in 1984 as a non-profit organization dedicated to providing informal science education to people of all ages. It opened its doors to the public in 1997 and has since welcomed more than 8 million visitors. In 2021, it celebrated its 20th anniversary in its current location in downtown Phoenix, which includes a five-story building with more than 164,000 square feet of exhibit space.
Arizona Science Center boasts more than 300 hands-on exhibits that cover a wide variety of scientific topics. Whether you're interested in outer space, the human body, or the natural world, there's something for everyone. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
- Forces of Nature: This exhibit explores the science behind natural disasters like tornadoes, earthquakes, and hurricanes. Visitors can experience what it's like to be in the eye of a tornado or feel the ground shake during an earthquake simulation.
- My Digital World: With technology playing an ever-increasing role in our lives, this exhibit gives visitors a chance to explore the digital world in a hands-on way. You can learn about coding, robotics, and more.
- All About Me: This exhibit lets visitors explore the human body in a fun and interactive way. You can test your balance, measure your heart rate, and even see what you'd look like if you were overweight.
According to Chevy Humphrey, the President and CEO of Arizona Science Center, “Arizona Science Center is a destination that provides an interactive experience where guests can explore, learn, and have fun with science, technology, engineering, and math. Our hands-on exhibits, multimedia presentations, and live demonstrations immerse visitors in STEM concepts that are vital to our everyday lives, and we hope to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers who will help shape a better future.”
Arizona Science Center is committed to providing high-quality STEM education to people of all backgrounds. It offers a wide range of programs and resources for educators, including professional development opportunities, curriculum resources, and field trip options. The Center also hosts summer camps, workshops, and other events for kids and teens.
In addition, Arizona Science Center is active in the community, partnering with local schools, libraries, and community organizations to provide outreach and education programs. It also hosts special events and programs throughout the year, such as the annual SciTech Festival, which aims to promote STEM education and innovation throughout the state.
Arizona Science Center is located at 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily, except for major holidays. Admission fees vary depending on age and membership status, but discounts are available for groups, military personnel, and educators.
In addition to the exhibits, Arizona Science Center also features a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and a gift shop. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or snack at the Bean Sprouts Café, which offers healthy and kid-friendly options.
Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Phoenix, Arizona Science Center is definitely worth a visit. With its engaging exhibits, fun activities, and commitment to STEM education, it's a great place to learn, explore, and have fun. So why not plan your visit today and experience the wonder of science for yourself?
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