Best Things To Do at the Connecticut Science Center

Dinosaurs Around the World is the newest exhibit. Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Science Center

New Exhibit: Dinosaurs around the World

The newest exhibit opening in March 2021 is Dinosaurs Around the World. Kids will "dig" the advanced animatronics, realistic landscapes, fossils and narrated displays. Located on Level 2, the Dinosaur exhibit will take up an entire side of the Museum and transport visitors back to Earth during the times of Pangea. Can you say Oviraptor, Amargasaurus or Hadrosaur?

Butterfly Encounter

Open year-round, Butterfly Encounter is an opportunity to be surrounded by beautiful flying creatures even when it's snowy outside. Inside the butterfly pen, there are between 40 and 50 different species of butterflies (new species are added weekly). The butterfly pen is kept at a balmy 80 degrees year-round with more than 30 different plant types. To enjoy the butterflies, the purchase of an additional timed-ticket is required for a 20-minute visit.

Kidspace

This is a favorite destination for any parent with children ages 7 and under. Kidspace has a huge water table for floating balls, gears and gizmos, and a tornado tube. Word to the wise: try to hold off on visiting till the end because there is a high probability kids will get seriously wet.

Engineering Lab Exhibit

For children interested in any form of engineering, the Engineering Lab should be on a must-visit list. Can you build a structure that will withstand an earthquake? Can you lift yourself off the floor? Do you know the basics in building electrical circuits?

Rooftop Garden

The beautiful Rooftop Garden is open all summer starting on Earth Day. Native species have been especially chosen and arranged in a water conserving design. There is a water feature as well and of course a great view!

3-D Movie Theater

(Note: The theater is temporarily closed due to the pandemic)
Visitors are surrounded by sights and sounds at the 3-D movie theater. View astounding productions on a 30x40 foot screen with Dolby surround sound. Movies played include: The Day the Dinosaurs Died, Black Hole Apocalypse and The Search for Life in Space.

 
Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Science Center

Best Programs at the Connecticut Science Center

STEM Kits

CSC has at-home STEM kits! Yes, you read that right! Each STEM kit is designed for 1-2 children and covers 3 entire weeks of STEM fun and learning. Included with the purchase of the box, your family will have a virtual one-on-one time with an educator from the Center. There are three different themes available: Take Flight, Celebrating Black History Month, and Walking with Dinosaurs. The boxes can be shipped or picked up and themes are changed regularly.

Investigate for Teens

Investigate is a program for teens in high school. If accepted into this program, they will learn about what STEM is, work with one another on hands-on projects and investigations as well as be assisted by educators and STEM professionals. This is an in-person program. 

School Vacation Discounts

The Science Center is open with special programs on school vacation days. During February Vacation,  every ticket is kids' price! 

Space Saturday Overnights

(Note: The overnights are temporarily on hold due to the pandemic)
A completely memorable experience. Spend the night at the Science Center with some friends or as an individual (1 adult per 8 children). Explore the 165 exhibits, visit with live animals and participate in an educator directed lesson. Late night snack and breakfast included.