Sciencenter Ithaca is a hands-on science museum in Ithaca, New York, with interactive exhibits for children and an outdoor Science Park. It’s a family-friendly option for exploring sound, motion, water, and physics through play.
- Location: Ithaca, New York
- For young children: Curiosity Corner is designed for ages 0–4
- Outdoor activities: Science Park features interactive exhibits
What to expect at the Sciencenter
The Sciencenter combines hands-on science activities with spaces designed for children and outdoor exploration.
The museum grew from a volunteer-run hands-on science program that operated for 15 years at several elementary schools in the Ithaca City School District. Today, its exhibits invite visitors to experiment with scientific ideas rather than just read about them.
In the Watergates Gallery, you can explore hydrology and engineering by experimenting with rubber ducks and testing how water flows through gates and barriers. Outdoors, the Science Park has interactive exhibits about sound, motion, water, and physics. Activities include making music, crossing a Kevlar cable bridge, and trying a 14-foot rope structure.
Tickets, hours, and exhibits
Check the Sciencenter’s official site before you go for current ticket prices and opening hours.
Exhibits include the Watergates Gallery and the outdoor Science Park, where you can try activities involving water, sound, and motion. The museum’s exhibits can change, so check the official site before you go if you’re planning around a particular activity.
To fit the museum into a broader day around town, the one-day Ithaca itinerary includes a practical route through town and campus.
Planning a visit with children
Curiosity Corner is designed for children ages 0–4 and includes an infant area, water table, activity stations, and an outdoor playground.
For a visit with very young children, Curiosity Corner brings several kinds of play together in one area. Older children can try the water experiments in the Watergates Gallery or head outdoors to the Science Park for activities focused on sound, motion, water, and physics.
If you’re planning a wider museum day in Ithaca, the Museum of the Earth in Ithaca is another museum to consider.
Getting there and accessibility
Driving from this two-star hotel in Ithaca takes about 12 minutes. If you’re arranging your trip by car, use the Sciencenter’s official site for current visitor and access details before setting out.
FAQs
What is the Sciencenter?
It’s a hands-on science museum in Ithaca, New York, with interactive exhibits and an outdoor Science Park.
Is the Sciencenter suitable for toddlers?
What can you do at the Sciencenter?
You can experiment with water flow in the Watergates Gallery and try outdoor Science Park activities involving sound, motion, water, and physics.
How much are Sciencenter tickets, and when is it open?
Ticket prices and opening hours can change. Check the Sciencenter’s official site before you go.