Explora Science Center - a building with a car parked in front of it
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Explora Science Center

4.8
·4k reviews·Albuquerque, United States

Explora Science Center: A vibrant hub of hands-on discovery with over 250 interactive exhibits for all ages, plus outdoor fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
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Explora Science Center - a building with a car parked in front of it

Explora Science Center

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explora Science Center: A vibrant hub of hands-on discovery with over 250 interactive exhibits for all ages, plus outdoor fun.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"Everyone left happy and wanting to stay longer! So much to explore!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

You'll likely want to stay longer than planned! Aim for 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits.

💰 Check ASTC Membership

Your science museum membership might grant free entry via the ASTC Passport Program.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hands-On Science Exhibits

Hands-On Science Exhibits

Engage with over 250 interactive exhibits exploring wind, water, gravity, magnets, and more. Fun for kids and adults alike!

Outdoor Exploration Area

Outdoor Exploration Area

Enjoy the outdoor space with water tables, a playground, and a unique tree swing. Perfect for burning energy on a nice day.

Toddler Zone

Toddler Zone

A dedicated, safe space for little ones to explore and play, ensuring fun for even the youngest visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan for Interactive Fun

Explora Science Center is packed with hands-on exhibits for all ages. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to truly explore, and consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds. Many reviewers suggest it's worth staying longer than you initially plan! Reddit

ASTC Passport Program Perks

If you're a member of another science museum, check if they participate in the ASTC Passport Program. Explora is on the list, potentially offering free or discounted admission, saving you money on your visit. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Toddler Time is great for little ones
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Still plenty of time to explore
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

EXPLORA science center and childrens museum is fun for everyone! #thingstodoinalbuquerque #nmtrue #explora #albuquerque
mmyspice
18 likes • 708 views

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

You'll likely want to stay longer than planned! Aim for 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits. Reddit

💰 Check ASTC Membership

Your science museum membership might grant free entry via the ASTC Passport Program. Instagram

¡Explora! Science Center & Children’s Museum 📍Address: 1701 Mountain Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104  ⏰Hours: • Monday–Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. • Monday Toddler Time: 9–11 a.m.  ➡️ Closed on Jan 1, Jul 4, week after Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Dec 25; early close at 2 p.m. on Dec 24 & 31  📞Phone: (505) 600‑6072  💵Cost: • Adults (ages 12–64): $10–11 (most sources say $10–11)  • Children (ages 1–...
museumswithkids
4 likes • 107 views
Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum of Albuquerque Parte 1 Es un museo para chicos y grandes, los juegos puedes experimentar con el viento, agua, gravedad, imanes etc. todos nos divertimos mucho, les recomiendo ir si visitan Albuquerque 👍🏻 #museodeciencia #explora #turisteando #familia #cienciayjuegos #chicosygrandes
mtra.citlaliosuna
5 likes • 186 views

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes for walking and playing. Instagram

🍎 Pack Snacks (or use cafe)

There's a small cafe, but bringing snacks can be helpful, especially with kids. Reddit

Explora Science Center and Children's Museum is a must visit if you are anywhere near New Mexico and have young kids!! 20,000+ Sq. Ft. of hands-on, interactive exhibits, lessons and activities... fun for the whole family! Coming soon, Explora's new X Studio - a place just for TEENS. Of course, Exllora is on the ASTC Passport list, so a membership at any one of the Association of Science and Tec...
zackandzoeyadventures
6 likes • 168 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

You'll likely want to stay longer than planned! Aim for 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits. Reddit

💰 Check ASTC Membership

Your science museum membership might grant free entry via the ASTC Passport Program. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes for walking and playing. Instagram

🍎 Pack Snacks (or use cafe)

There's a small cafe, but bringing snacks can be helpful, especially with kids. Reddit

📱 Download Maps/Info

While not essential, having info handy can enhance your visit. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Explora Science Center's highly interactive exhibits that captivate both children and adults, leading to hours of engaging fun. The outdoor space and toddler area are frequently praised, and many find the admission price to be a great value. Some wish they had allocated more time to explore everything.

"So much to explore! I went in with a group of children from my work and everyone left happy and wanting to stay longer! There are areas where children can enjoy for hours. Everything is clean especially the restrooms. I will be going back soon. Thank you for your warm welcome. We were running late and the girl upfront gave us a bit more time to explore."

Daniela Ivone

"Brought our 8 and 6 year old boys. Haven’t been here since they were 5 and 3, but they still loved it! Super interactive. They stayed in the same sections forever. We were there for about 2 hours. Could have stayed longer, but we were hangry. Not too crowded for a Saturday on a holiday weekend."

Cat

"Fun and exciting space for my toddlers to run around and burn some energy this summer. Engaging and plenty to do and see for a variety of ages. Loved the outdoor space, water tables, playground, and tree swing."

Alexi Derstine

What People Like

Highly interactive exhibits
Fun for all ages
Great outdoor space

What People Dislike

Wish they had more time

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Explora Science Center is located at 1701 Mountain Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Explora Science Center. It's generally convenient for visitors arriving by car. Instagram

Yes, Explora Science Center is located near Old Town Albuquerque, making it a convenient stop if you're exploring that historic area. Instagram

For families, driving is often the most convenient option. If using public transport, ensure it's stroller-friendly and check for direct routes to minimize travel time with children. Instagram

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Albuquerque and can be a convenient way to reach Explora Science Center. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices typically range from $10-$11 for adults (ages 12-64). Children's pricing may vary, and it's always best to check their official website for the most current rates. Instagram

Explora participates in the ASTC Passport Program, meaning members of other participating museums may receive free or discounted admission. Check their website for details on other potential discounts. Instagram+1

Explora is generally open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, they are closed on certain holidays and may have early closures on others. Always verify current hours before your visit. Instagram

While not always strictly necessary, purchasing tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Check their website for online ticketing options. Reddit

Explora has a dedicated toddler area, and general admission covers access to all exhibits, including the toddler zone. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explora features over 250 hands-on, interactive exhibits covering science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Topics include wind, water, gravity, magnets, and more, designed for all ages. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Explora has a dedicated toddler area and many exhibits are designed to be engaging for younger children, while still offering plenty for older kids and adults. Instagram+1

Most visitors find they need at least 2-3 hours, with many recommending 3-4 hours or even longer to fully experience all the exhibits. Reddit+1

Yes, Explora has an engaging outdoor space with water tables, a playground, and a tree swing, perfect for enjoying good weather. Instagram

Crowd levels can vary. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. Even on busy days, the interactive nature of the exhibits means there's usually space for everyone to engage. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Explora has a small cafe-like area where you can purchase food and drinks. They often mark vegan and gluten-free options. Reddit

While outside food and drinks might be restricted in exhibit areas, it's often permissible to bring snacks for consumption in designated areas or outside. It's best to confirm their policy upon arrival. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. They are known to have vegan and gluten-free options available. Reddit

Explora is located near Old Town Albuquerque, which offers a variety of dining options, from casual to more formal. You'll find many New Mexican cuisine restaurants in the vicinity. Instagram

Prices at the cafe are generally considered reasonable for a museum cafe, offering a convenient option for visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Explora Science Center for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in areas where it might be disruptive. Instagram

The interactive exhibits themselves make for dynamic photos. The outdoor area with the tree swing and water tables also offers great photo opportunities. Instagram

While personal photography is usually fine, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Avoid obstructing exhibits or other guests. Instagram

Video recording for personal use is typically permitted. Capturing the interactive nature of the exhibits can make for great memories. Instagram

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the fun. If you have a camera with good low-light performance, it can be beneficial for indoor shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Explora Science Center is a dream destination for families! With over 250 hands-on exhibits, there's endless fun for children of all ages. The dedicated toddler area is perfect for your littlest ones, offering a safe and engaging space to explore. Instagram For older kids, the interactive exhibits on science, technology, and art will keep them entertained and learning for hours. Don't miss the outdoor exploration area with its water tables and playground – it's a fantastic way for kids to burn off energy. Instagram

Pro-tip for families: Plan for at least 3-4 hours to truly enjoy everything. Consider checking if your home museum membership offers free entry through the ASTC Passport Program to save on admission. Instagram+1 Weekday visits are generally less crowded, which can make the experience even more enjoyable for families with young children. The cafe offers some kid-friendly options, but bringing snacks is also a good idea. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Explora Science Center offers excellent value, especially if you leverage the ASTC Passport Program. If you're a member of another participating science museum, you might get in for free or at a reduced rate, making it a very budget-friendly activity. Instagram+1 Even without a membership, the admission price is often considered reasonable compared to other attractions, especially given the amount of interactive content available. Reddit

To maximize your budget, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, as museum cafes can add up. Reddit Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds, potentially leading to a more relaxed experience without the premium weekend pricing often associated with popular attractions. The sheer amount of exploration available means you can easily spend half a day or more here, getting a lot of bang for your buck.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Couples & Adults

Don't let the 'Children's Museum' in the name fool you – Explora Science Center is incredibly engaging for adults too! The interactive exhibits offer a fun and playful way to revisit scientific principles or learn something new together. It's a fantastic opportunity for couples to bond over shared discovery and playful experimentation. Instagram The outdoor area, with its unique tree swing and water features, can also be a surprisingly delightful spot for adult exploration. Instagram

Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a great alternative to traditional museums, offering a more dynamic and hands-on experience. The cafe provides a casual spot to refuel and discuss your favorite exhibits. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Exhibits: A Hands-On Adventure

Explora Science Center boasts over 250 interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and learning across all ages. Visitors can experiment with forces like wind, water, and gravity, delve into the principles of magnets, and explore the intersection of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). The museum's philosophy is rooted in learning through play, making complex scientific concepts accessible and fun. Many exhibits are designed for collaborative exploration, encouraging families and groups to engage together. Instagram+1

Reviewers consistently praise the highly interactive nature of the exhibits, noting that children (and adults!) can spend hours engrossed in a single area. The variety ensures there's something to capture everyone's interest, from simple cause-and-effect experiments to more complex demonstrations. The outdoor exploration area is a particular highlight, offering a chance to enjoy the New Mexico sunshine while engaging with water features, a playground, and a unique tree swing. Instagram

For the youngest visitors, the dedicated toddler area provides a safe and stimulating environment. This space is thoughtfully designed with age-appropriate activities that encourage early exploration and sensory development. It allows parents to relax while their little ones discover and play without the risk of encountering exhibits meant for older children. Instagram

Making the Most of Your Visit: Tips from the Community

To truly maximize your experience at Explora, heed the advice of fellow visitors. A recurring theme is to allocate ample time; many suggest planning for at least 3-4 hours, as you'll likely discover more to explore than initially anticipated. Reddit+1 This allows for unhurried engagement with the exhibits and reduces the feeling of being rushed. Comfortable footwear is also a must, as you'll be on your feet for much of your visit. Instagram

Savvy travelers recommend checking if your existing science museum membership is part of the ASTC Passport Program. This reciprocal membership can grant you free or discounted entry to Explora, offering significant savings. Instagram+1 For families with young children, the Toddler Time sessions offer a more tailored experience, though the dedicated toddler area is accessible during regular hours. Instagram

Consider visiting during weekdays if possible, as they tend to be less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience. Reddit While there is a cafe on-site, some visitors find it beneficial to bring snacks, especially for longer visits with children, though it's always wise to confirm their policy on outside food. Reddit

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