Emerald Coast Science Center
Interactive science exhibits and animal encounters for kids, offering a fun and educational indoor escape on the Emerald Coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Emerald Coast Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Interactive science exhibits and animal encounters for kids, offering a fun and educational indoor escape on the Emerald Coast.
"A cute and fun place to visit to gain a little knowledge while staying (mostly) in-doors on a hot week."
🎯 Planetarium is Extra
The planetarium show is a separate fee, but a great way to beat the heat and learn!
🐾 Meet the Animals!
Don't miss the creature features and animal encounters; the staff are super friendly and knowledgeable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Animal Encounters
Reptile Room, Outdoor Area
Meet fascinating creatures like sugar gliders, tortoises, and snakes. Staff are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, sometimes even letting you hold them!
Planetarium Show
Planetarium Exhibit
Journey through our solar system in this captivating extra-fee exhibit. A perfect way to cool off and learn about space.
Hands-On Exhibits
Main Exhibit Hall
Engage with interactive displays on the human body, colors, and vehicles. Kids love the matching games and robot arms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Interactive Fun for Little Ones
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Planetarium is Extra
The planetarium show is a separate fee, but a great way to beat the heat and learn!
🐾 Meet the Animals!
Don't miss the creature features and animal encounters; the staff are super friendly and knowledgeable.
⏰ Check Exhibit Status
Some exhibits may be out of order, so check ahead if a specific one is a must-see.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking is available right in front of the center.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Planetarium is Extra
The planetarium show is a separate fee, but a great way to beat the heat and learn!
🐾 Meet the Animals!
Don't miss the creature features and animal encounters; the staff are super friendly and knowledgeable.
⏰ Check Exhibit Status
Some exhibits may be out of order, so check ahead if a specific one is a must-see.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking is available right in front of the center.
🛍️ Souvenir Shop
A small selection of souvenirs is available if you want a memento of your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Emerald Coast Science Center as a fun, educational, and cool indoor escape, especially for younger children aged 4-10. The interactive exhibits and enthusiastic staff, particularly during animal encounters, are highlights. However, some guests note that certain exhibits can be out of order, and older children might find it less engaging.
"A cute and fun place to visit to gain a little knowledge while staying (mostly) in-doors on a hot week. A great cool down spot for our kids, they would have stayed there forever if you let them (who knew matching games were so fun).
There was also a creature feature going when we arrived, and in the words of my daughter “sugar gliders are SO CUTE” (I don’t disagree).
I highly recommend if you are looking for something to do that your kids will enjoy!"
Emily Lambert
"Wonderful exhibit. You can see everything within 1-2 hours, which was perfect for us to kill some time. Staff are very nice!! Love the animals they have. The director was there and let us hold some of the snakes. Very enthusiastic about everything. Please give this place your business and learn a bit in the process!"
Alexander McNiel
"It's a great place to take young children (4-10). Older kids won't be too thrilled. When I took my kids today, most of the exhibits were out of order which ruined the experience. They did have a cool planetarium exhibit today which was extra. It went over our solar system."
adam black
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Emerald Coast Science Center is located in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of free parking available directly in front of the building. +1
The science center is in Fort Walton Beach, which is about a 25-minute drive from Destin. Many visitors find it worth the short trip for a unique indoor activity.
There is ample free parking available directly in front of the Emerald Coast Science Center, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Information on public transportation options to the Emerald Coast Science Center is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of arrival.
Yes, the science center is generally accessible for strollers, with most exhibits and pathways designed to accommodate them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Emerald Coast Science Center is typically $12 per person. It's a reasonable price for the interactive experience and animal encounters offered.
While advance ticket purchase is not always mandatory, it's a good idea, especially during peak season or weekends, to ensure entry and avoid potential lines.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth checking their official website or inquiring at the entrance for any potential offers or group rates.
No, the planetarium show at the Emerald Coast Science Center is an additional fee on top of general admission.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Emerald Coast Science Center website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of interactive exhibits focusing on the human body, animals, colors, and vehicles. There's also a reptile room, and animal encounters. +1
Yes, the science center features a variety of animals, including sugar gliders, tortoises, snakes, and birds. They also host animal encounter shows. +1
Yes, the science center is highly recommended for toddlers and young children (ages 4-10) due to its hands-on, engaging exhibits.
The hurricane simulator is an exhibit that allows visitors to experience simulated hurricane conditions. It may come with an extra fee.
Yes, the Emerald Coast Science Center has a decent-sized outdoor area, which can be a nice addition to the indoor exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Emerald Coast Science Center does not typically have a full-service cafe or restaurant. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to dine nearby.
While outside food and drinks might be restricted in exhibit areas, it's best to check their policy upon arrival. There might be designated areas for consumption.
Fort Walton Beach and Destin offer numerous family-friendly restaurants. You can find everything from casual seafood spots to pizza places within a short drive. +1
Yes, there are many restaurants in the vicinity of the Emerald Coast Science Center, catering to various tastes and budgets. +1
The science center does host birthday parties, and it can get a bit busy on Saturdays due to these events. Inquire directly for party packages.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed inside the Emerald Coast Science Center for memories, but commercial use or flash photography might be restricted.
The animal exhibits, especially the sugar gliders and tortoises, make for great photo opportunities. The planetarium can also offer unique shots.
Yes, you can take photos of the animals, but always be respectful of their space and follow any staff instructions.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around public attractions for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to avoid flying drones near the science center.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing memories. If you have a camera with good low-light capabilities, it can be helpful for indoor shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the busiest times, which often include birthday parties. While the planetarium show has an extra fee, it's a great way to cool down and learn about space. Don't miss the animal encounters – they are a definite highlight for many young visitors!
☀️ Day-Trippers from Destin
📚 Homeschoolers & Educators
+1Educators will appreciate the center's focus on interactive learning and the knowledgeable staff who can enhance the educational experience. The 'Women in Science' conference mentioned by one visitor highlights the center's commitment to inspiring future scientists.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits
Beyond the core exhibits, the center boasts a reptile room and various animal encounters. Children are often thrilled by the chance to see and learn about creatures like sugar gliders, tortoises, and snakes. The staff's enthusiasm and knowledge enhance these experiences, sometimes even allowing visitors to interact directly with the animals, creating memorable moments.
For those seeking an even deeper dive into science, the planetarium exhibit offers a captivating journey through our solar system. While this is an additional cost, it provides a fantastic opportunity to cool off and expand one's understanding of space. The center also features a hurricane simulator, offering a unique, albeit potentially extra-fee, experience of weather phenomena.
Family Fun and Practicalities
Practical considerations for visiting include the admission fee, which is typically around $12 per person. The planetarium show is an additional cost. It's worth noting that some exhibits may occasionally be out of order, so it's wise to manage expectations. The center also has a small souvenir shop for those looking to take home a memento.
Free parking is readily available directly in front of the building, adding to the convenience. While the center doesn't have extensive dining facilities, there are numerous family-friendly restaurants in the surrounding Fort Walton Beach and Destin areas. The center also hosts birthday parties, which can contribute to a busier atmosphere on weekends.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit