Picture this: You’re standing in front of a six-foot-tall hurricane simulator at the museum of discovery & science, wind whipping your hair, heart pounding, and you’re grinning like a kid who just found a secret passage. That’s the magic of this place—it doesn’t just show you science, it throws you right into the middle of it. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to touch a tornado, pilot a jet, or stare down a prehistoric predator, this museum is your playground.
Why the Museum of Discovery & Science Feels Different
Most museums ask you to look, not touch. Here, you’re encouraged to press buttons, spin wheels, and even crawl through a human-sized digestive tract. The museum of discovery & science in Fort Lauderdale isn’t just for kids, though. Adults find themselves just as hooked—sometimes more. I once watched a group of grandparents race their grandkids in the EcoDiscovery Center’s Everglades airboat simulator. Spoiler: the kids won, but only by a hair.
What Sets It Apart
- Hands-on exhibits: From the Storm Center to the Mars Rover replica, you’re not just reading about science—you’re living it.
- Real animals: Otters, turtles, and even alligators call this place home. You can watch them eat, play, and sometimes nap in the sun.
- IMAX theater: The five-story screen makes you feel like you’re swimming with whales or flying through space.
Here’s the part nobody tells you: The museum of discovery & science is a place where adults rediscover their curiosity. If you’ve ever felt like science was just a bunch of facts, this place will change your mind.
Must-See Exhibits and Experiences
Let’s break it down. The museum of discovery & science isn’t just one big room—it’s a maze of surprises. Here are a few you can’t miss:
EcoDiscovery Center
Step into South Florida’s wild side. The Everglades airboat adventure puts you in the captain’s seat, steering through virtual sawgrass and dodging digital alligators. The Otters at Play habitat is a crowd favorite—watching these little acrobats tumble and splash is pure joy. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch feeding time, which is as chaotic as it sounds.
Storm Center
Ever wanted to stand inside a hurricane? The Storm Center lets you feel the force of 78-mph winds. It’s loud, it’s wild, and it’s a reminder of nature’s power. You’ll leave with a new respect for meteorologists—and maybe a new hairstyle.
Prehistoric Florida
Giant sloths, saber-toothed cats, and a jaw-dropping megalodon jaw greet you here. The fossils aren’t just for show; you can touch some of them. If you’ve got a dinosaur-obsessed kid (or you’re one yourself), this is your happy place.
IMAX Theater
The museum’s IMAX theater is a showstopper. The screen towers five stories high, and the sound shakes your seat. Whether you’re watching a documentary about the ocean or a blockbuster film, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Pro tip: Arrive early for the best seats.
Who Will Love the Museum of Discovery & Science?
If you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who likes to poke things and see what happens, you’ll fit right in. The museum of discovery & science is perfect for families, school groups, and anyone who believes learning should be fun. But if you prefer quiet galleries and “do not touch” signs, this might not be your scene.
For the Curious Kids (and Grown-Ups)
- Kids ages 3-12: The Discovery Center is a wonderland of water tables, climbing structures, and science experiments.
- Teens: The Mars Rover and aviation simulators offer real challenges and bragging rights.
- Adults: The science of brewing exhibit and behind-the-scenes tours give you a reason to come back without kids.
Here’s why it matters: The museum of discovery & science makes science feel personal. You’re not just learning about the world—you’re part of it.
Tips for Your Visit
Ready to plan your trip? Here are a few things I wish I’d known before my first visit:
- Arrive early. The museum of discovery & science gets busy, especially on weekends. Early birds get the best parking and shortest lines.
- Check the schedule. Live animal shows and science demonstrations happen throughout the day. Don’t miss the otter feedings—they’re a highlight.
- Bring snacks. There’s a café, but lines can get long during lunch. Pack a few snacks, especially if you’re visiting with kids.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be on your feet, exploring two floors of exhibits.
- Buy IMAX tickets in advance. Popular films sell out fast, especially during school breaks.
If you’ve ever struggled to keep your kids engaged at a museum, this place is your secret weapon. The museum of discovery & science turns “Are we done yet?” into “Can we stay longer?”
What You’ll Remember
Long after you leave, you’ll remember the look on your child’s face as they launch a rocket or pet a stingray. You’ll remember the rush of the hurricane simulator and the awe of standing under a giant dinosaur skeleton. You might even remember a fact or two—like how otters can hold their breath for up to eight minutes. (I still tell people that at parties.)
But here’s the real lesson: The museum of discovery & science isn’t just about facts or exhibits. It’s about sparking wonder, curiosity, and maybe even a little courage to try something new. If you’re ready for a day that feels like an adventure, this is your spot.
Next Steps
Check the museum of discovery & science website for hours, ticket prices, and special events. Plan your visit around the exhibits that excite you most. And don’t forget to bring your sense of curiosity—you’ll need it.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through Fort Lauderdale, the museum of discovery & science offers a journey you won’t forget. Dive in, get your hands dirty, and let yourself be surprised. Science has never felt this real.