McWane Science Center, South Alabama Travel Guide

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Explore interactive science exhibits, an aquarium, and an IMAX Dome Theater at Birmingham's leading science center.

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McWane Science Center

The McWane Science Center in Birmingham, Alabama, is a leading science museum featuring interactive exhibits, an IMAX Dome Theater, and an aquarium. Housed in a renovated historic department store, it offers a dynamic learning environment for all ages, with a focus on hands-on experiences that make science accessible and fun.

A brief summary to McWane Science Center

200 19th St N, Birmingham, Fountain Heights, Alabama, 35203, US
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit on weekday mornings for a less crowded experience, allowing for more interaction with exhibits.
Check the daily schedule online for science shows, demonstrations, and special activities.
Consider becoming a member for free admission, free parking, and discounts.
Take advantage of the Museums for All program for reduced admission with an EBT card.
The parking deck has a height restriction of 6'8".

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Explore McWane Science Center on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near McWane Science Center, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Birmingham Museum of Art, walk north on 20th Street North for three blocks. Turn right onto 2nd Avenue North and walk one block east. McWane Science Center will be on your left, at the corner of 2nd Avenue North and 19th Street North. No cost for walking.
Public Transport

The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) offers bus routes that stop near McWane Science Center. From the Central Station, several bus routes will get you within a short walking distance of the museum. Check the BJCTA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is $1.25 [https://www.bjcta.org/].
Driving

From I-65 North, take exit 260-B and follow 3rd Avenue North to 19th Street North. Turn right, and McWane Science Center will be on the corner of 2nd Avenue North and 19th Street. Parking is available in the McWane Science Center parking deck on 2nd Avenue North for $5 per day for non-members. Street parking is also available, free on weekends, but metered during the week. Nearby parking lots and garages are also available.

Discover more about McWane Science Center

McWane Science Center is a premier science museum and research center located in downtown Birmingham, Alabama. It resides in the historic, refurbished Loveman's department store building and opened its doors to the public on July 11, 1998. The center features four floors of hands-on exhibits that celebrate science and wonder, making it a unique venue for explorers of all ages.The center's exhibits include the World of Water, which showcases over 50 species of marine and freshwater aquatic life, complete with a touch tank where visitors can interact with small sharks and rays. The Alabama Collections Center houses over 500,000 items, including fossils, minerals, and Native American artifacts. Noteworthy items include a large collection of mosasaurs, the Appalachiosaurus, and the state fossil of Alabama, the Basilosaurus cetoides. Younger children can enjoy Itty Bitty Magic City, featuring a climbing structure, water play area, and miniature versions of city buildings designed to promote learning and connection. ScienceQuest offers interactive exhibits where visitors can experience science in action, including a distortion room and various challenges. The IMAX Dome Theater provides an immersive cinematic experience with a five-story dome screen and surround sound.McWane Science Center is committed to providing accommodations for visitors with physical and sensory challenges, including accessible ramps and elevators, descriptive audio services in the IMAX theater, and partnerships with organizations like KultureCity. The center also offers various educational programs, summer camps, and workshops for different age groups.