Discovery Science and Technology Centre
Bendigo's Discovery Science and Technology Centre offers 100+ hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a thrilling vertical slide for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Discovery Science and Technology Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bendigo's Discovery Science and Technology Centre offers 100+ hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a thrilling vertical slide for all ages.
"This place is great for young and old. Kids and I all had a ball. We spent hours here."
🎟️ Book Planetarium Shows
Planetarium sessions can fill up fast, especially during peak times. Book ahead online!
💰 Museum Victoria Membership
If you're a member of Museums Victoria, you might get free entry! Check before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Science Exhibits
Main exhibition hall
Over 100 hands-on displays that make learning science fun for all ages.
Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Journey through the solar system and beyond with captivating educational screenings.
Vertical Slide
Main exhibition hall
A thrilling, gravity-defying experience that's a hit with kids and adults alike.
Science Playground
Outdoor area
An engaging space where kids can explore scientific principles through play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Discovery Science
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Planetarium Shows
Planetarium sessions can fill up fast, especially during peak times. Book ahead online!
💰 Museum Victoria Membership
If you're a member of Museums Victoria, you might get free entry! Check before you go.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours here, so plan accordingly to enjoy everything.
🚶♂️ Easy V/Line Access
Bendigo Station is right by the centre, perfect for a day trip.
VLine day trip suggestions
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Planetarium Shows
Planetarium sessions can fill up fast, especially during peak times. Book ahead online!
💰 Museum Victoria Membership
If you're a member of Museums Victoria, you might get free entry! Check before you go.
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours here, so plan accordingly to enjoy everything.
🚶♂️ Easy V/Line Access
Bendigo Station is right by the centre, perfect for a day trip.
👨👩👧👦 Fun for All Ages
Don't assume it's just for kids; adults find it engaging and informative too!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Discovery Science and Technology Centre for its engaging, interactive exhibits that captivate both children and adults. The planetarium shows and the vertical slide are frequently highlighted as major attractions, offering a blend of education and excitement. While generally a positive experience, some note that it can get busy during peak times, and planetarium shows require advance booking.
"We had a fantastic time at DS&TC! The visit was fun, engaging, and full of learning opportunities. We watched a fascinating solar system screening at the planetarium, enjoyed an exciting science show about wild weather, and the boys loved challenging themselves on the vertical slide. We also played for hours at the science playground. Altogether, we spent about 3 hours there, and every moment was worth it."
Bernadett Kalman
"I thought the kids would be the only ones enjoying this, I was wrong. This place is great for young and old. Highly recommend doing the planetary tour. It was very informative and interesting. Kids and I all had a ball. We spent hours here. Highly recommend."
Rob
"Interactive, fun and well laid out. The presentation on Easter Monday was excellent! Engaging, educational, pitched at the right level for both kids and adults, well paced and delivered. The vertical slide was a highlight."
Deborah Lin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The centre is conveniently located near Bendigo Station, making it an easy destination for a V/Line day trip. You can walk from the station directly to the centre.
While public transport is recommended due to its proximity to the station, there are usually parking options available in the surrounding areas of Bendigo.
Absolutely! It's a popular V/Line day trip destination from Melbourne. The train journey is straightforward, and the centre is easily accessible from Bendigo Station.
Taking the V/Line train is highly recommended for its convenience and proximity to the centre. It's a relaxing way to travel and avoids any parking hassles.
The centre is designed to be accessible for all visitors, with most exhibits and facilities being wheelchair friendly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary, and it's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing. Family passes and concession rates are often available.
While walk-ins are often possible, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for planetarium shows and during peak periods like school holidays, to secure your spot.
Yes, Museums Victoria members can often get free reciprocal entry. Keep an eye out for special event pricing or group discounts.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, Museums Victoria members often receive free reciprocal entry to the Discovery Science and Technology Centre. It's always a good idea to confirm this benefit before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the interactive exhibits, the captivating planetarium shows, the thrilling vertical slide, and the engaging science playground.
Most visitors find that 2 to 3 hours is sufficient to explore the exhibits and enjoy a planetarium show. Some stay longer if they're really engaged!
Yes, the centre often hosts engaging science shows and presentations, particularly during school holidays and special events. Check their schedule for details.
Absolutely! There's a dedicated area for smaller children, and many exhibits are designed to be accessible and engaging for a wide range of ages.
The vertical slide is a unique and exciting attraction that offers a thrilling experience. It's a popular highlight for many visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for non-commercial use. However, it's always best to check for any specific restrictions, especially in the planetarium during shows.
Yes, the interactive exhibits, the planetarium dome, and the science playground offer many fun and colorful photo opportunities.
The hands-on displays with vibrant colors and dynamic elements, as well as the planetarium's starry projections, make for great shots.
It's advisable to avoid using flash photography, especially during planetarium shows, as it can be disruptive. Check for signage or ask staff if unsure.
While not common, some special exhibits or presentations might have restrictions. Always be mindful of your surroundings and any posted signs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the educational value seamlessly woven into the fun. It's a place where kids can learn about science through hands-on exploration, fostering curiosity and a love for discovery. The centre is easily accessible from Bendigo Station, making it a convenient day trip option for families traveling from afar.
🧑🎓 School Groups & Educational Visits
Teachers can leverage the interactive displays and planetarium shows to create immersive learning experiences. The centre's proximity to Bendigo Station also makes it an accessible destination for school groups traveling by public transport. Planning ahead and booking group visits is essential to ensure a smooth and enriching experience for all students.
🚀 Science Enthusiasts & Lifelong Learners
For those who appreciate the intersection of science and fun, the centre provides a stimulating environment. It’s a chance to rekindle childhood wonder or simply enjoy the ingenuity behind the exhibits. Consider checking for any special adult-focused events or presentations that might be on offer.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Interactive Exhibits
These exhibits cover a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines, ensuring that there's something to pique everyone's interest. Whether it's understanding light and sound, exploring forces and motion, or delving into the wonders of the human body, the centre provides a stimulating environment. The layout is intuitive, allowing visitors to move freely and spend as much time as they wish at each station, fostering a sense of exploration and personal discovery.
What truly sets these exhibits apart is their ability to translate complex scientific ideas into understandable and enjoyable activities. This approach is particularly effective for younger visitors, igniting a passion for STEM from an early age. The sheer variety means that repeat visits can still offer new insights and discoveries, making it a valuable educational resource for families and schools alike.
The Magic of the Planetarium
Visitors consistently rave about the planetarium shows, often describing them as fascinating and informative. The content is typically pitched at a level that engages both children and adults, making it a shared experience for the whole family. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about astronomy, celestial bodies, and the vastness of space in a captivating and memorable way.
It's important to note that planetarium shows are often ticketed separately or require advance booking, especially during busy periods. Checking the schedule and booking your preferred session in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment and ensure you don't miss out on this stellar experience.
Thrills and Play: The Vertical Slide & Science Playground
Complementing the indoor exhibits is the outdoor science playground. This area extends the learning and fun into an open-air environment, featuring various structures and activities that encourage exploration and physical engagement. It’s a great space for children to burn off energy while continuing to learn about scientific principles through play.
Together, the vertical slide and the science playground offer a dynamic mix of excitement and educational play, ensuring that visitors of all ages can find something to enjoy and be thrilled by. These elements add another dimension to the centre's offerings, making it a well-rounded destination for family fun and learning.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit