Arizona Science Center: A Downtown Phoenix Hub of Discovery
Explore interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater in the heart of downtown Phoenix.
The Arizona Science Center is located in the heart of downtown Phoenix within Heritage and Science Park. Designed by architect Antoine Predock, the 140,000-square-foot building is an intriguing landmark with ramps, hallways, and terraces that create an environment of investigation and discovery. The center features four levels of hands-on exhibits. Visitors can explore various galleries, including All About Me, which explores the human body, and Forces of Nature, which simulates natural disasters. The Dorrance Planetarium offers shows about the solar system, and the Irene P. Flinn Giant Screen Theater presents films on a five-story screen. The CREATE Makerspace provides a community space for sharing ideas and collaborating on projects. Since its opening in 1984, the Arizona Science Center has been committed to inspiring, educating, and entertaining people of all ages about science. Beginning as a small storefront exhibition, the center has grown to host over 400,000 visitors annually and features over 350 permanent hands-on exhibits. It also hosts traveling exhibitions and offers daily demonstrations.
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential lines and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons or for special exhibitions.
- Visit during the week or non-peak hours for a less crowded experience.
- Check the daily schedule for live demonstrations and showtimes at the planetarium and giant screen theater.
- Take advantage of the discounted parking validation offered for the Heritage and Science Park Garage.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing while exploring the exhibits.
A brief summary to Arizona Science Center
- 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, Downtown Phoenix, Arizona, 85004, US
- +1602-716-2000
- Visit website
- Monday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Arizona Science Center is easily accessible via Valley Metro Rail. Take the light rail to the 3rd St/Jefferson or 3rd St/Washington stations, which are a short walk from the center. A 1-Ride pass costs $2, and a 1-Day pass is $4. Alternatively, several bus routes, including 1 and 7, stop near the Science Center.
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Walking
If you are in downtown Phoenix, the Arizona Science Center is within walking distance of several attractions, including Heritage Square, the Phoenix Convention Center, Chase Field, and the Arizona Center. From Heritage Square, walk south towards Washington Street; the Science Center will be on your left.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach the Arizona Science Center. A short trip from downtown Phoenix typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on demand and distance.
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Driving
If driving, parking is available at the Heritage and Science Park Garage located on 5th Street and Monroe Street. The Science Center validates parking passes for a discounted rate. The validated parking costs are: The first hour is free, 1-2 hours is $1, 2-3 hours is $3, 3-4 hours is $5, and 4+ hours is $8. Several other parking garages are also located nearby, including the Arizona Center Garage and CityScape East Garage, with rates typically ranging from $15 to $25 for a few hours.
