McWane Science Center: Birmingham's Hands-On STEM Hub
Explore interactive science exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX Dome Theater at Birmingham's leading science museum. A great family adventure!
The McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham is a leading science museum featuring interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX Dome Theater. Housed in the historic Loveman's department store building, McWane offers a fun and educational experience for all ages, with a focus on STEM learning and Alabama's natural history [6, 11].
A brief summary to McWane Science Center
- 200 19th St N, Birmingham, Fountain Heights, Alabama, 35203, US
- +1205-714-8300
- Visit website
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours, such as weekdays or Sunday afternoons, to avoid crowds [10].
- Check the daily schedule for show and demonstration times to maximize your visit [10].
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially during holidays and school breaks [10].
- Consider a membership for free parking, discounts, and access to exclusive events if you plan to visit multiple times [2, 10].
- Take advantage of sensory bags and quiet spaces for visitors with sensory sensitivities [10, 25].
Getting There
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Public Transport
McWane Science Center is accessible via several MAX Transit bus routes [10, 20]. Routes 1, 3, 6, 14, 22, 45, 90, 100, and 280 have stops within a few blocks of the museum [10]. From Central Station, walk north on 20th Street North, then turn right onto 1st Avenue North; the museum will be a short walk on your left [10]. A single ride fare is $1.25 [10].
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Driving
McWane Science Center is located at 200 19th Street North in downtown Birmingham [10]. From I-65, take exit 260B and follow 3rd Avenue North to 19th Street North, then turn right [10]. The museum will be on the corner of 2nd Avenue North and 19th Street North [10]. The McWane Science Center parking deck is located on 2nd Avenue North [10]. Parking in the deck costs $5 for non-members [2, 4]. Street parking is also available, metered at $0.25/hour with a 2-hour limit on weekdays, and free on weekends and holidays [10, 7].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide convenient access to McWane Science Center [10]. From most downtown locations, a ride will cost approximately $8-$12, depending on demand and distance [10].
Discover more about McWane Science Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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The Woodward Building
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Historic 4th Avenue Business District
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Alabama Peanut Co.
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Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
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Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
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The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
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Birmingham Civil Rights District
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Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
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Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
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Negro Southern League Museum
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Railroad Park Foundation
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Birmingham Museum of Art
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The Rougaroux
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Bricktop's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Soca Clothing
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![Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/BarImages/7367605d-795a-46b6-ae50-1825e1d76fb0)
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On Tap Sports Cafe Liberty Park
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