Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Science Center of Iowa with Kids
Our boys love visiting the Science Center of Iowa.
As soon as we arrive, our older boys usually rush upstairs to build and launch a rocket, while the younger ones enjoy playing at the pretend grocery store on the main level.
No matter your child’s age, the Science Center has something engaging for everyone.
It’s the perfect place to spend a couple of hours or even half a day exploring interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
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Quick Visitor Information
Location
Address: 401 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50309
📍 Conveniently located in downtown Des Moines.
Parking
- On-site parking: Covered ramp parking is available. The new automated system requires you to scan a QR code, enter your license plate and payment details, and remember to end your “parking rental” upon leaving to avoid extra charges.
🌟 Membership perk: Science Center members receive two free parking validations per year—redeemable at the front desk.
- Street parking: Limited availability but free on weekends.
- Tip: Arrive early on busy days to secure a spot.
Admission Prices
- Adults (13+): $17
- Seniors (65+): $15
- Children (2-12): $17
- Children under 2: Free
Pro Tip: If you plan to visit more than once a year, consider a family membership—it often pays for itself in just two or three visits! Plus, when you travel, you can receive free or discounted admission to Science Centers across the United States.
Hours of Operation
- Wednesday-Sunday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
📌Always check the Science Center website before your visit for any changes in hours due to holidays or events.
Tips for Your Visit
- Check the Science Center of Iowa website for the most up-to-date hours and exhibit information.
- Weekdays after 2 PM tend to be less crowded than weekends.
- Pre-purchase tickets online to save time at the entrance.
- Expect to spend about 2-3 hours at the Science Center of Iowa.
Our Family’s Top 5 Science Center of Iowa Activities
1. Building and Launching a Rocket
Located in the When Things Get Moving! exhibit, kids can build a paper rocket with provided materials and launch it to see how far it travels.
➡️ A loud air blast sends the rocket flying, which always excites the kids!
➡️ Volunteers sometimes assist in rocket-making—helpful if crafting isn’t your strong suit. (That would be me.)
➡️ Other activities in this area include:
- Ball Wall: A hands-on wall with gears, pulleys, and levers for sending balls through a fun obstacle course plus an overhead container that drops the balls to the ground!
- Slinky Waves: A treadmill paired with a slinky for endless fun.
- Momentum Machine: Lots of spinning and physics in action!
- Bounce Bounce: Push all the balls to the top of the rail and pull the lever for a satisfying observation!
2. Running the Fareway Grocery Store
This Small Discoveries exhibit recently got an upgrade!
- New additions include:
🥚 A chicken coop with stuffed chickens that “lay” eggs.
🌽 A Discovery Garden featuring apple trees, corn stalks, and a vegetable garden.
- My youngest son could spend an hour just gathering eggs and picking vegetables to “sell” in the store while my 5-year-old loves pretending to shop, stock shelves, and work the conveyor belts.
- The younger kids also love milking the cow. 🐄
3. Giving a Weather Forecast with the Green Screen
In the What On Earth exhibit, kids can step in front of a green screen to deliver their own weather forecast! ☀️ 🌧
- On Fridays at noon, WHO 13 meteorologists broadcast the weather live from the Science Center—kids can even be on TV!
- Even when not live, our boys get such a kick out of seeing themselves on screen, waving their arms and making up wild forecasts.
4. Programming a Rover
One of the newest activities in the Why the Sky exhibit, kids can program a rover and watch it follow their commands.
- Our boys had a blast programming the rover when we visited! They enjoyed arranging the command tiles and watching in excitement as the rover followed their directions.
- Our younger ones loved pressing buttons just to see it move, while the older boys really enjoyed thoughtfully programming the rover to do what they wanted.
5. Building a Structure to Withstand an Earthquake
In the Brick by Brick exhibit, kids build block structures and test their strength against an earthquake simulator.
- Our boys love turning this into the ultimate competition—who can a build a structure that will survive the longest?
- My youngest sons simply love seeing their block structure topple over when the simulator starts shaking.
Common Questions About Visiting the Science Center of Iowa
What ages are best for visiting?
The Science Center has activities for all ages:
- Toddlers and young kids love the Small Discoveries area, the ball wall, and the reptile exhibits.
- Older kids enjoy the Maker’s Studio, rocket launches, and LEGO exhibits.
How long should I plan to stay?
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring exhibits and interactive activities.
Is food available on-site?
No, the Science Center no longer has a cafeteria. However, there are nearby dining options, including Jimmy John’s and Blaze Pizza across the street.
Is a Science Center membership worth it?
For our family of six, a membership is a no-brainer:
- For us, a single visit costs $102, while an annual family membership is $130.
- The biggest perk? Free or discounted admission to other science centers nationwide—huge savings when we travel!
Why the Science Center of Iowa is a Must-Visit for Families
The Science Center of Iowa is a fantastic family-friendly museum in Des Moines for kids of all ages.
With interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and even rotating special exhibits, there’s always something new to explore.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Des Moines, this science center is a must-visit for families looking for a fun and educational outing!
If you’re looking for more fun things to do in Des Moines with kids, check out my guide to The Best Things to do with Kids in Des Moines.
For some budget-friendly ideas check out the Top Free Things to do in Des Moines with Kids
May you love your adventure! KW
