Orlando Science Center
Overview
Expert Summary
Detailed Insights
The Orlando Science Center offers an interactive and hands-on learning experience, particularly engaging for children aged 5 and up. It provides a diverse range of activities from movie-making to science experiments, animal encounters, and fossil digs, serving as a robust alternative to larger, time-consuming attractions for a few hours of focused fun and education.
Key Highlights
- ✓Dedicated movie-making section on the third floor for kids aged 8 and up.
- ✓Abundance of interactive, hands-on items and puzzles designed to challenge thinking.
- ✓Variety of science-themed experiences including experiments, slime creation, and 'investigation escape room' elements.
- ✓Exhibits featuring dinosaur bones, fossil digging areas, an airplane simulator, and egg drop challenges.
- ✓Live animals, specifically alligators, located on the first floor, with feeding opportunities (times unspecified).
- ✓Suitable for families looking for an engaging, shorter visit compared to major theme parks.
Standout Features
- ⭐Highly interactive and hands-on learning environment.
- ⭐Diverse range of activities including creative movie-making, scientific experiments, and animal exhibits.
- ⭐Specific exhibits like fossil digging areas and an airplane simulator.
- ⭐Plenty of easily accessible restrooms throughout the facility.
- ⭐Convenient cafeteria located on the ground floor.
- ⭐Equipped with elevators and facilities for wheelchairs, ensuring accessibility.
Perfect For
Ideal For
💡Pro Tips from Reviews
- →Always double-check the Orlando Science Center's website for any exhibit closures, especially for popular areas like the dinosaur exhibit, before planning your visit.
- →If interested in seeing the alligator feedings, inquire about specific times upon arrival or check their website in advance, as times are not readily known by visitors.
- →Parents with children aged 2-4 should consider that there are limited age-appropriate activities for this group.
- →If planning to eat at the ground floor cafeteria, be prepared for potentially long waits on busy days and varied food quality (some spicy, pizza not well-rated). Consider bringing alternative snacks or meals if your children are picky eaters or if you prefer healthier, non-spicy options.
Things to Consider
- ⚠The dinosaur exhibit was reportedly closed in January 2025; visitors should double-check exhibit closures prior to arrival.
- ⚠One reviewer found the general experience 'kinda' boring' for kids older than 8, with the dinosaur exhibit being the only exception.
- ⚠Issues with staff helpfulness and politeness were reported by one reviewer.
- ⚠The cafeteria experiences extremely long wait times on busy days.
- ⚠Cafeteria food quality is questionable, with pizza described as not tasting 'very well' and most food being 'very spicy'.
- ⚠Lack of clearly posted or known times for alligator feedings can lead to missed opportunities.
Price & Value
While no specific prices are mentioned, one reviewer implies the entry price might be high relative to the perceived value, particularly for children older than 8, unless the dinosaur exhibit is a major draw. The value proposition appears strong for children aged 5-8, but potentially diminishes for older kids if specific exhibits aren't available or engaging.
♿Accessibility & Special Needs
- •The facility is equipped with elevators and designated areas for wheelchairs.
🍎Food & Drink Policy
- •There is a cafeteria located on the ground floor. Reviewers reported long wait times on busy days and issues with food quality (e.g., pizza not good, most food spicy). No explicit policy on outside food is mentioned in the reviews.
👥Crowd Levels
- •The cafeteria experiences 'extremely long' waits on 'busy days,' suggesting general crowd levels can be high at peak times.
⏰When to Avoid
- • Bringing children aged 2-4, as activities are scarce for this age group.
- • Visiting without confirming the status of specific exhibits, particularly if the dinosaur area is a key interest.
- • Relying on the cafeteria for quick, non-spicy, or guaranteed child-friendly meals, especially during busy periods.
- • If your children are easily bored by hands-on science or are older than 8 and not specifically interested in the dinosaur exhibit (when open).
Pricing/Package/Events
Pricing & Packages
College Membership
Price not specified (reduced-rate)Duration: 1 year
For current college students. Includes all member perks except Member Guest Passes.
Includes:
- •Unlimited general admission
- •Free parking
- •Complimentary stroller rental
- •Early KidsTown access (Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00-10:00 am, for children 0-7)
- •Unlimited educational films (Digital Adventure Theater)
- •Member-Only events
- •Retail discounts (Science Store, 4Roots Cafe, Coffee Spot - 10%)
- •Discounted special events tickets (Spark STEM Fest free, Science Night Live, Science On Tap, Science & Wine discounted)
- •Program discounts (Summer Camps, Break Camps, Birthday Parties)
- •ASTC Passport Program access
- •Monthly e-newsletter (MicroSCOPE)
- •1-year subscription to SCOPE Magazine
Individual Membership
Price not specifiedDuration: 1 year
Science Center fun for one adult.
Includes:
- •Unlimited general admission
- •Free parking
- •Complimentary stroller rental
- •Early KidsTown access (Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00-10:00 am, for children 0-7)
- •Unlimited educational films (Digital Adventure Theater)
- •4 complimentary Member Guest Passes (valued up to $124)
- •Member-Only events
- •Retail discounts (Science Store, 4Roots Cafe, Coffee Spot - 10%)
- •Discounted special events tickets (Spark STEM Fest free, Science Night Live, Science On Tap, Science & Wine discounted)
- •Program discounts (Summer Camps, Break Camps, Birthday Parties)
- •ASTC Passport Program access
- •Monthly e-newsletter (MicroSCOPE)
- •1-year subscription to SCOPE Magazine
Duo Membership
Price not specifiedDuration: 1 year
Ideal membership for two individuals.
Includes:
- •Unlimited general admission (for any two individuals, one must be 18+)
- •Free parking
- •Complimentary stroller rental
- •Early KidsTown access (Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00-10:00 am, for children 0-7)
- •Unlimited educational films (Digital Adventure Theater)
- •4 complimentary Member Guest Passes (valued up to $124)
- •Member-Only events
- •Retail discounts (Science Store, 4Roots Cafe, Coffee Spot - 10%)
- •Discounted special events tickets (Spark STEM Fest free, Science Night Live, Science On Tap, Science & Wine discounted)
- •Program discounts (Summer Camps, Break Camps, Birthday Parties)
- •ASTC Passport Program access
- •Monthly e-newsletter (MicroSCOPE)
- •1-year subscription to SCOPE Magazine
Family Membership
Price not specifiedDuration: 1 year
Bring the whole brood! Includes benefits for up to two adults and all youth under 18. Adult add-on options available.
Includes:
- •Unlimited general admission (up to two adults and all youth under 18)
- •Free parking
- •Complimentary stroller rental
- •Early KidsTown access (Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00-10:00 am, for children 0-7)
- •Unlimited educational films (Digital Adventure Theater)
- •4 complimentary Member Guest Passes (valued up to $124)
- •Member-Only events
- •Retail discounts (Science Store, 4Roots Cafe, Coffee Spot - 10%)
- •Discounted special events tickets (Spark STEM Fest free, Science Night Live, Science On Tap, Science & Wine discounted)
- •Program discounts (Summer Camps, Break Camps, Birthday Parties)
- •ASTC Passport Program access
- •Monthly e-newsletter (MicroSCOPE)
- •1-year subscription to SCOPE Magazine
- •Option to add 'Bring A Friend' for $35 (allows one additional admission per day, limit two add-ons)
Grandparent Membership
Price not specifiedDuration: 1 year
Enjoy indoor and educational entertainment with grandchildren.
Includes:
- •Unlimited general admission (up to two adults and any grandchildren under 18)
- •Free parking
- •Complimentary stroller rental
- •Early KidsTown access (Saturdays & Sundays, 9:00-10:00 am, for children 0-7)
- •Unlimited educational films (Digital Adventure Theater)
- •4 complimentary Member Guest Passes (valued up to $124)
- •Member-Only events
- •Retail discounts (Science Store, 4Roots Cafe, Coffee Spot - 10%)
- •Discounted special events tickets (Spark STEM Fest free, Science Night Live, Science On Tap, Science & Wine discounted)
- •Program discounts (Summer Camps, Break Camps, Birthday Parties)
- •ASTC Passport Program access
- •Monthly e-newsletter (MicroSCOPE)
- •1-year subscription to SCOPE Magazine
- •Option to add 'Bring A Friend' for $35 (allows one additional admission per day, limit two add-ons)
Science For All Membership
$35Duration: 1 year
Reduced-price Family Membership for qualifying families demonstrating financial need. A limited amount of scholarship funding is allocated.
Includes:
- •Annual family membership
- •Free or discounted admission to special events
- •Discounts at on-site retail locations
Events & Schedule
Special Events(Last 2 months - Next 6 months)
OSC After Dark
October 25
Price not specified (Adults 21+ only, implies different pricing than general admission)
Experience the Science Center in a whole new way with events featuring special programming, the latest in technology, and adults-focused content!
Spark STEM Fest
Multi-day interactive celebration (specific dates not provided)
Free for Members, general admission for non-members (implies general admission applies)
A multi-day interactive celebration that sparks interest in science, technology, engineering, and math through exciting hands-on experiences, exhibits and programs.
Science Night Live
Specific dates not provided
Discounted tickets for Members, full price for non-members
Enjoy everything you love about the Science Center, plus special programming made for adults.
Science On Tap
Specific dates not provided
Discounted tickets for Members
Special event with discounted tickets for members.
Science & Wine
Specific dates not provided
Discounted tickets for Members
Special event with discounted tickets for members.
🍎Food Policy
- • Outside food may not be consumed in exhibit halls or the 4Roots Cafe.
- • For picnic-style lunch, guests are recommended to utilize the adjacent Loch Haven Park.
- • Guests are welcome to bring their own food options to enjoy in the Loch Haven Cultural Park.
- • On-site food options: 4Roots Cafe (locally-sourced, fresh, healthy menu items, including Build-Your-Own Bowls, Salads, Focaccias, Sandwiches, Kids options, group meals), The Coffee Spot.
🛡️Safety Policy
- • Children under the age of 12 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
- • Prohibited Items: Firearms, ammunition, knives, and weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited on the premises.
- • Smoking, dipping or chewing tobacco or a tobacco product must take place 25 feet from all exterior doors. No tobacco products or e-cigarettes are allowed in the facility.
- • Unattended bags: Visitors attending with bags and/or luggage are responsible for keeping their items with them; unattended bags will be handled as deemed appropriate.
- • Clothing policy: Clothing displaying offensive messages/language, exposing inappropriate portions of the body, or excessively tight and contouring portions of the body is unacceptable. Shirts and shoes are required at all times.
- • Personal Transportation Devices: Skateboards, scooters, inline skates, and shoes with built-in wheels are not permitted inside the facility.
- • Balloon Policy: Helium balloons are not allowed within Orlando Science Center.
- • Cameras or recording equipment are prohibited in the Digital Adventure Theater.
- • Management not responsible for items left unattended.
- • The Science Center occasionally photographs and/or records exhibits, programs, or live performances for advertising and promotional use. Guests with objections should notify a staff member.
📅Booking Policy
- • Timed-entry tickets should be reserved online in advance.
- • Online ticket purchases save on the price of admission and expedite entry.
- • In-person ticket purchases are full-price and subject to availability.
- • Discounted admissions cannot be processed online; eligible guests must check in at the admissions desk on the day of their visit for admittance during the first available time slot.
🚗Parking Information
- • Paid self-parking available during regular museum hours.
- • Location: Orlando Science Center's parking garage at 782 Princeton Street, Orlando, FL 32803.
- • Rate: $4/hour (FREE to OSC Members).
- • Availability: First come, first served basis; garage may fill up on rare occasions.
- • Accessible Parking: Located on Level 2.
- • Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Located on the ground floor.
- • Building Entrance: All guests enter through the Love Bridge located on Level 2 of the parking garage (across Princeton Street from the main building).
- • Bicycle Racks: Several racks located around the museum, including two on the west side of the garage near the Member gate and stairwell, and one next to Orlando Science Center by Bus Entrance A on Camden Road.
- • Public Transport: AdventHealth SunRail stop is within short walking distance at 500 E. Rollins St., Orlando, FL 32803.
What People Say
What's Great
- Friendly and helpful staff (mentioned in 5 reviews)
- Fun and entertaining activities (mentioned in 3 reviews)
- Spacious play areas (mentioned in 5 reviews)
Areas for Improvement
- Can get crowded during peak times (mentioned in 2 reviews)
Recent Reviews
Krishna kosi
3 weeks agoA fantastic spot where kids can both learn and have fun! The third floor features an exciting area for kids aged 8 and up to create and film their own one-minute movie. Highly recommend taking the kids to the movie-making section — it’s a must-visit!
Adam Cook
3 months agoThis is an interactive science museum with more hands-on items than exhibits. This is great for keeping kids active as well as challenging them to think about how to solve the many puzzles. If you have a few hours, this is a great stop that is not one of the BIG attractions in the area. It is not big, so if there with middle aged to older kids, you can do everything before lunch. Before you go double-check exhibit closers as the dinosaurs exhibit was closed in January 2025.
i pm
a week agoWell, IMHO, if you are older than 8 y.o. I think you will not find it fascinating (only exception: dinosaur exhibit). Quite honestly kinda' boring. For this (entry) price at least staff should be more helpful and polite. Just check out their Web site. After that no need to visit.
Mike Fried
2 months agoThe Orlando Science Center holds a special place in my heart — my wife and I got married here in February 2020! It was the perfect blend of fun, unique, and unforgettable — just like the couples I get to photograph here. Every time I come back to capture weddings, it feels like a mini homecoming. From saying "I do" on the terrace with a stunning view of the Orlando skyline to celebrating next to towering dinosaurs, this venue is a dream for anyone looking for something bold and out of the ordinary. The staff is always incredible, and the spaces are full of personality, making every wedding day feel like an adventure. If you're looking for a venue that's as fun and quirky as you are, the Science Center is the spot. Can't wait to be back again soon — camera in hand, of course! Looking for a wedding photographer who knows the space and will hype you up every step of the way? Let’s chat! Contact me at sonacityphotography.com
Lee Stat
2 months agoThis museum is awesome for children and adults ages five and up. They are really aren’t much activities for ages 2 to 4. The experiences for the rest of us are science experiments, animals, doing slime, almost like an investigation escape room. There are dinosaur bones, places where kids can dig up fossils, an airplane simulator, egg drop, there’s coloring pages too. There’s some alligator on the first floor. They are plenty of restrooms, and a cafeteria on the ground floor. There are elevators and places for wheelchairs. The weight at the cafeteria was extremely long, especially if it’s a busy day. The pizza didn’t taste very well and most of the food was very spicy. They were feeding the alligators too, and we saw that but we don’t know what time so you might see them feeding the alligators.