Discovery Center Museum: Rockford's Hands-On Science Hub

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Explore over 300 interactive exhibits at Rockford's Discovery Center Museum, a hands-on science and arts hub for families and children of all ages.

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Discovery Center Museum

The Discovery Center Museum in Rockford, Illinois, offers over 300 interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) for children of all ages. Located in the Riverfront Museum Park, it provides a dynamic learning environment with indoor exhibits and an outdoor science park.

A brief summary to Discovery Center Museum

711 N Main St, Rockford, Illinois, 61103, US
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Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Check the museum's calendar for special events, workshops, and traveling exhibits to enhance your visit.
Visit during weekday afternoons for a less crowded experience.
Take advantage of the 'Same Day Savings' program and get $1 off admission to the Burpee Museum of Natural History when visiting both museums on the same day.
Museum offers various membership options that provide unlimited free admission for a year and discounts on parties and events.

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Getting There

Car

The Discovery Center Museum is located at 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103. From I-90 or I-39, follow signs for downtown Rockford. Once in the city center, head north on Main Street. The museum will be on your right, past the intersection with East State Street. Ample free parking is available.
Taxi/Rideshare

For a direct route, use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Discovery Center Museum, 711 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103' as your destination. Fares vary based on distance and time.
Public Transport

Check the Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) for local bus services. Bus routes may have stops near Riverfront Museum Park. Check the RMTD website or app for schedules and fare information. A single ride fare is typically around $2.

Discover more about Discovery Center Museum

The Discovery Center Museum, nestled in Rockford's Riverfront Museum Park, has been a cornerstone of the community since 1981. Founded by the Rockford Area Arts Council and the Junior League of Rockford, the museum's mission is to provide a space for playful learning through hands-on experiences in science and the arts. Inside, you'll discover over 300 interactive exhibits spanning 23,000 square feet across two floors. These exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the human body, electricity, space exploration, simple machines, and more. Kids can forecast the weather, generate electricity using their own bodies, and explore the universe without leaving the museum. There's also a special area for children under 18 months to safely explore. Outside, the Rock River Discovery Park offers even more opportunities for discovery. This outdoor science park features a two-story maze, a dinosaur dig pit, and a water play area. It was the first community-built outdoor science park in the nation. The Discovery Center Museum isn't just a place for kids; it's an experience for the whole family. With special events, traveling exhibits, and a constant stream of new things to explore, every visit promises a new adventure. The museum also offers a planetarium with shows.

Explore the best of what Discovery Center Museum has to offer

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