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McWane Science Center, Greater Birmingham Travel Guide

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Explore interactive science exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX Dome Theater in Birmingham's vibrant downtown at McWane Science Center.

The McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham, Alabama, is a hands-on science museum and research archive housed in the historic Loveman's department store building. It features interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX Dome Theater, offering a fun and educational experience for all ages.

A brief summary to McWane Science Center

  • 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
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring McWane Science Center.

  • Check the daily schedule online for science demonstrations, IMAX showtimes, and special events.
  • Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays or early mornings) for a less crowded experience.
  • Take advantage of the McWane Science Center Parking Deck on 2nd Avenue North for convenient and secure parking.
  • Consider becoming a member for free admission, free parking, and discounts on IMAX tickets.
  • If you have an EBT card, show it upon arrival to receive a discounted admission.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Birmingham Museum of Art, walk approximately 0.3 miles north on 20th Street North. Turn left onto 2nd Avenue North. The McWane Science Center will be on your right, at the corner of 2nd Avenue North and 19th Street North. Walking time is approximately 6-8 minutes. No cost.

  • Public Transport

    Several MAX Transit bus routes serve the downtown area. Route 45 Express stops near the Alabama Theater, a short walk from McWane Science Center. A single ride fare is $1.25 [https://www.maxtransit.org/fares/].

  • Driving

    From I-65, follow the signs to downtown Birmingham. McWane Science Center is located at the corner of 2nd Avenue North and 19th Street North. Parking is available in the McWane Science Center Parking Deck on 2nd Avenue North. Parking fees apply; see cost details below.

Discover more about McWane Science Center

McWane Science Center is a leading science museum located in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama. Opened in 1998, it was formed through the merger of the Red Mountain Museum and Discovery Place. The center is dedicated to sparking curiosity and a love of learning through hands-on exhibits and immersive experiences.The museum features four floors of interactive exhibits. ScienceQuest, located on the first floor, allows visitors to experience science in action with exhibits about gravity, pendulums, and more. The World of Water exhibit on the lower level showcases over 50 species of marine and freshwater aquatic life, including a touch tank with sharks and rays. For younger children, Itty Bitty Magic City offers a climbing structure, water play area, and miniature versions of city buildings. The Alabama Collections Center houses over 500,000 items, including fossils, minerals, and Native American artifacts. Don't miss the IMAX Dome Theater for an immersive cinematic experience.McWane Science Center also offers a variety of educational programs, including school group programs, summer camps, and workshops. These programs are designed to align with state and national science education standards. The center also hosts special events and temporary exhibits throughout the year.

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