
Science Central Fort Wayne
An ex-power plant transformed into a 30,000-sq.-ft. interactive museum for science, math, and technology learning.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Science Central Fort Wayne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ex-power plant transformed into a 30,000-sq.-ft. interactive museum for science, math, and technology learning.
"Great place for kids to explore and get hands-on with so many different areas to keep them interested!"

🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance online.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must for all ages!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Science On a Sphere
Main Exhibit Hall
A mesmerizing, large-scale globe displaying Earth's data in real-time. Truly captivating!

Kids Central
Dedicated Area
An engaging, multi-level water table and play space perfect for younger children.

Space Exhibits
Exhibit Hall
Explore the cosmos with interactive displays that spark curiosity about space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Beat the Crowds
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance online.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must for all ages!
🍎 Pack Smart Snacks
Vending machines have limited healthy options; consider bringing your own snacks and drinks.
♿ Accessible Restrooms
Features an adult changing table, making it a great option for families with disabilities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance online.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must for all ages!
🍎 Pack Smart Snacks
Vending machines have limited healthy options; consider bringing your own snacks and drinks.
♿ Accessible Restrooms
Features an adult changing table, making it a great option for families with disabilities.
📸 Capture the Fun
Plenty of interactive exhibits make for great photo opportunities with the family.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Science Central for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that are both educational and fun for children. The 'Science On a Sphere' and 'Kids Central' areas are frequently highlighted as favorites. However, some reviews note that exhibits can feel a bit dated, and the vending machine food options are limited and heavily skewed towards soda.
"Great place to visit, especially with little ones. My wife , her daughter and I brought the grandson to explore the place. It was exciting for him because of the variety of hands-on activities and exhibits. It’s also educational experience for kids including adults. I believe they had a snack area- can’t remember if they sold food but I do remember the vending machines. Recommend going."
J Santiago Sr.
"Fort Wayne, unfortunately does not have a lot of museums like other larger cities. This is a great place for young kids however, most of the displays and exhibits are a little bit dated. There are some new things that they add every year. They used to have this really cool Bike track on the second floor, but it has not been used for many years now unfortunately. It’s definitely worth one visit with kids but don’t expect multiple hours of fun."
Nelson M
"Science is always fun! We loved going here and seeing all the cool experiments and experiences you can do. Their new space stuff was really interesting and interactive. I would have loved to experience more except my kids are currently too little to appreciate it all. Someday we will be back and able to enjoy all the new areas!"
Kimberly Kay Lutz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Science Central is located in downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the downtown area.
While Science Central itself may not have dedicated parking, there are several public parking garages and street parking options in the downtown Fort Wayne area, often within walking distance.
For exploring Fort Wayne, driving is the most common method. Ride-sharing services are also available. If you're staying downtown, many attractions, including Science Central, are within walking distance.
Yes, Science Central is a prominent landmark in downtown Fort Wayne, often housed in a converted power plant, making it relatively easy to locate.
Public transportation options in Fort Wayne are available. Check with the local transit authority for specific bus routes that stop near Science Central in the downtown area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Science Central is typically around $11 per person, though prices can vary. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts or coupons.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times, to save time and ensure entry.
Keep an eye on the Science Central website and local tourism sites for potential discounts or coupons. Special events might also offer package deals.
Operating hours can vary, so it's essential to check the Science Central website before your visit. They are typically open on weekends and some weekdays, with extended hours during special events.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, many science museums offer membership programs that provide free admission and other benefits. Check their website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the captivating 'Science On a Sphere,' the interactive 'Kids Central' with its water table, and the engaging space exhibits. The hands-on nature of all displays makes for a dynamic visit.
Absolutely! Science Central has a dedicated 'Kids Central' area with a fantastic water table and play space designed for children seven and under.
While geared towards children, the interactive nature of the exhibits and the 'Science On a Sphere' display offer engaging experiences for adults too. It's a place for all ages to learn and explore.
This is a large, spherical display that projects real-time data about Earth, such as weather patterns, ocean currents, and geological activity, offering a unique educational perspective.
Yes, Science Central hosts various special events throughout the year, like 'Sci-Fi Central' which celebrates pop culture and science, often featuring themed activities and entertainment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Science Central has a snack area with vending machines. However, the selection is limited, with a strong emphasis on soda and few healthy options like water or juice.
While not explicitly stated, it's common for family-friendly attractions to allow guests to bring their own snacks and drinks, especially given the limited options at the venue.
Clara's Pizza King on State Street is a recommended local spot for families, offering pizza. Hop River Brewery is also nearby and generally welcoming to children.
The vending machines primarily offer soda, with very limited options for water or low-sugar juices, which can be frustrating for families with young children.
Science Central primarily offers a snack area with vending machines, rather than a full-service restaurant. For a more substantial meal, consider nearby local eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Science Central, and many exhibits are designed to be visually engaging and fun to photograph with family.
While personal photography is usually permitted, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage regarding flash photography or professional shoots.
The 'Science On a Sphere,' the colorful 'Kids Central' water table, and the space exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities. The interactive nature of the displays makes for dynamic shots.
Similar to photography, personal video recording is typically allowed. However, for commercial or professional filming, you would likely need to contact Science Central for permission.
Generally, most public areas are fine for photos. However, always be mindful of any posted signs indicating restricted areas or exhibits where photography might not be permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While the museum offers a snack area, the vending machines have limited healthy options. It's highly recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks to ensure your little ones have access to suitable refreshments. Comfortable shoes are also a must, as there's plenty of space to explore and play!
🧑🤝🧑 School Groups & Field Trips
Booking in advance is crucial for school groups to ensure availability and coordinate logistics. The museum's focus on interactive learning makes it an ideal location for students to explore scientific principles in a stimulating environment.
♿ Visitors with Disabilities
Beyond physical access, the interactive nature of the exhibits can be adapted to various abilities, allowing for engagement and learning. Visitors are encouraged to contact Science Central directly for specific accessibility inquiries to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hands-On Learning for All Ages
One of the most celebrated areas is Kids Central, specifically designed for children seven and under. This vibrant space features a multi-level water table that is a huge hit with little ones, complete with a flock of rubber duckies for endless fun. This dedicated zone ensures that even the youngest visitors have a stimulating and age-appropriate environment to explore and learn through play.
Beyond the dedicated children's area, exhibits like Science On a Sphere offer a more sophisticated yet equally captivating experience. This large-scale, spherical display projects real-time data about Earth, allowing visitors to visualize complex scientific concepts in a visually stunning way. The museum also features exhibits focused on space, encouraging a deeper understanding of the universe.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
The museum's design also considers the needs of various visitors. While the primary focus is on interactive exhibits, the layout and accessibility features aim to accommodate different mobility needs. The presence of clear signage and well-maintained pathways contributes to a smoother experience for everyone.
Beyond physical accessibility, Science Central fosters an inclusive atmosphere through its educational programming. By offering a wide array of hands-on activities, it caters to different learning styles and abilities, making science accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience.
Dining and Refreshments
Given the limited vending machine offerings, many visitors opt to bring their own snacks and drinks. This is a practical strategy to ensure that everyone, especially children, has access to preferred and healthier food options during their visit.
For those looking for more substantial meals, several kid-friendly restaurants are located nearby in downtown Fort Wayne. Clara's Pizza King is a popular local choice for families, and Hop River Brewery is also mentioned as a welcoming option. These nearby establishments provide a good alternative for a sit-down meal before or after exploring the museum.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit