Discover Pennsylvania’s Science Museums and Centers

Da Vinci Science Center

Established in 1992, the Da Vinci Science Center features hands-on scientific experiments and fun for the whole family. Located in downtown Allentown north of the Philadelphia area, the 11,000-square-foot facility strives to make learning about science and mathematics exciting. The center's hands-on workshops are perfect for school groups and scout programs.

Visit the Science Hall of Fame to learn about the individuals who have contributed to the world of science. Be sure to browse the selection of clothing, gifts, books, and toys in the Curiosity Shop before leaving DSC.

Lancaster Science Factory

As you prepare to explore central Pennsylvania, make your way to Lancaster and check out the Lancaster Science Factory. Opened in January of 2008, the Lancaster Science Factory has simple goals: to spark the interest in math and science for all of the youth in Lancaster County.

There are more than 50 hands-on exhibits at the Lancaster Science Factory – you and the kids are sure to enjoy your tour. At the Lancaster Science Factory, you'll find a selection of exhibits structured around topics like Fluid Dynamics, Acoustics, Light and Vision, and even Electricity and Magnetism.

The kids can enjoy learning a bit about magnets and electricity at the Crank Power and Light It Up exhibits, and then they'll have a blast playing with the Tennis Ball Launcher and the Water Tornado exhibits. The Lancaster Science Factory is opened Tuesday through Sunday, minus any major holidays – visit soon on your exploration of central PA.

Franklin Institute Science Museum

Founded in 1824, the Franklin Institute Science Museum inspires its visitors to learn about science and technology. This Philadelphia museum honors Benjamin Franklin and his many useful inventions.

The museum, along with the Fels Planetarium, opened 10 years later becoming one of the first interactive science museums in America. The on-site Tuttleman IMAX Theater and Musser Theater have expanded the museum's diversity and enriches the museum's overall visitor experience.

The variety of lectures, educational programs and internationally recognized exhibits appeal to scientists, children, teachers and citizens. Special events include programs in the observatory and outdoor movies in Philadelphia.

Whitaker Center For Science & The Arts

Encompassing over 130,000 square feet, the Whitaker Center For Science & The Arts is a pride of both Harrisburg and Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Housing the Select Medical IMAX Theater, the Harsco Science Center, and the Sunoco Performance Theater, the Whitaker Center truly exhibits science and art all in one stop.

First opened in 1999 in downtown Harrisburg, the Whitaker Center is closed on Mondays, and encourages visitors to check out 20-minute Big Science Theatre and other pieces of the permanent collection like “Bodies in Motion: The Physics of Human Movement.”