Pacific Science Center
- Trevor
- March 17, 2021
- Last Updated: September 19, 2023
Location
200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
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Description
Welcome to the Pacific Science Center, where science comes to life! You’ll be impressed by the numerous hands-on exhibits, activities, and the unforgettable Tropical Butterfly House that are sure to inspire, educate, and entertain all ages. The Pacific Science Center has ignited curiosity for more than 60 years, as an independent, not-for-profit institution that serves nearly one million people in the Pacific Northwest and beyond annually.
The annual membership pays for itself or get the City Pass and save on admission at Seattle’s top attractions (including the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, Museum of Pop Culture, Woodland Park Zoo, Chihuly Garden, and Pacific Science Center).
Is The Pacific Science Center Good For Kids?
Wow! What an amazing place for the entire family! The Science Center is a perfect place for kids to not only learn about science, but also to have some fun. The Pacific Science Center (PacSci) is a perfect day trip into Seattle, and is especially loved by kids for its many interactive exhibits. There are small and large exhibits, water activities, a laser show, a planetarium, and our personal favorite, the Tropical Butterfly House. This warm and toasty exhibit lets you walk among hundreds of beautiful butterflies. If you’re bringing your toddler, there’s also a super cool toddler area with a water play and touch and feel marine animals. Time sure does fly by here, so make sure to pay enough for parking. Come be curious and immerse yourself in countless exhibits and immersive STEM experiences, like the Salt Water Tide Pool and the largest IMAX® theaters and Laser Dome. The facilities are bigger than you might expect, but there’s always something new to see and explore. We had so much fun, time flew by!
Does the Pacific Science Center Have Parking?
While the Pacific Science Center doesn’t own or manage any parking garages or spaces, there are plenty of options available nearby including street parking and several garages. Plus, the Seattle Center Monorail is a fun and convenient way to get arrive from downtown Seattle. The trip is just 90 seconds long and you can catch the monorail at Westlake Center. And, if you’re taking the Light Rail, Westlake Center is also a stop for easy transfer. We can’t wait to see you soon for an amazing adventure and a day full of scientific discovery!
Pacific Science Center Planetarium
Welcome to Pacific Science Center’s Willard Smith Planetarium! Join for an unforgettable experience with live, immersive presentations. Take a trip to the outer reaches of the universe or explore the planets in our own solar system. Their knowledgeable presenters are happy to discuss current astronomy news and share recent discoveries with you. Plus, each show can be tailored to your interests!
They have three different shows, a special show called “Preschool All Stars” that is perfect for introducing astronomy to all ages. Children can interact with the sky and space through dance, song, and storytelling. It’s a blast for ages 2-5! The “Earth: Pole to Pole” show takes you on a journey to explore the unique role Earth’s polar regions play in shaping our planet’s climate. And for the stargazers out there, “Sky Watch” offers an interactive journey that will have you finding patterns in tonight’s stars or exploring our planetary neighbors.
As of 2023, all planetarium shows are free with General Admission, but require timed tickets for entry. PacSci members are given priority booking, but 50% of all tickets are available for day-of booking.Â
Preschool All Stars – 10:30 am ~ lasting 15-20 minutes
Earth: Pole to Pole – 1:15 pm ~ lasting 30-40 minutes
Sky Watch – 11:15 am (Weekends only) and 2:15 pm ~ lasting 30-40 minutes
Pacific Science Center Laser Dome
Welcome to the Laser Dome at Pacific Science Center! They have such a wide range of laser shows, featuring popular artists such as Cardi B, ODESZA, Taylor Swift, and BTS. With their state-of-the-art equipment packing 10,000 watts of sound, you’ll experience an immersive visual and musical display like no other. Whether you join for a daytime or evening show, you’ll leave feeling amazed by the dazzling imagery and stunning sound. And the best part? All daytime laser shows are included in General Admission! Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience at Pacific Science Center’s Laser Dome. Find their daytime laser show schedule here!
IMAX - Experience The Largest Screen in WA
Consider visiting Seattle’s ultimate IMAX® adventure! With two state-of-the-art theaters, PACCAR and Boeing, you won’t be disappointed. The Boeing IMAX Theater is not only one of the most advanced but also offers the largest screen in the state of Washington. You’ll be amazed watching movies on a massive six-story-high (60 feet) and 80 feet wide screen – especially during both 2D and 3D showings. Not only will you have a fantastic time, but your experience will go towards supporting science education throughout Washington State – double win! Make sure to come early to find the best seat safely, movies start promptly. Check out their showtimes here!
Note to Self
- Weekends are busy and book up, book early and buy your tickets online ahead of time.
- Planetarium and nighttime laser shows require timed tickets, these are "add-on" experiences to your general admission ticket.
- Pacific Science Center is a nice upgrade for the kids from the Children's Museum (found in Seattle Center) with many more interactive exhibits.
- The bathroom is across the courtyard (it has interesting facts about bodily functions).
- There's a refillable water station outside the bathroom.
- The cafeteria has grab and go food - sandwiches, yogurt, soup, Mac n' cheese.
- Bus access is not bad and there is parking on the street, near by garages, or in paid parking lot.
Welcome to That Sounds Awesome
Four cousins on their journey to enjoy life. We spend our days exploring Seattle, Washington, surrounding areas, and the world to find the best things to do, eat, and see.
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