Looking for fun and educational things to do in Hickory and Western NC?

Plan a visit to Catawba Science Center, a 35,000 sq. ft. science and technology museum that offers a wide range of engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. With hands-on exhibits, animal habitats, salt and freshwater aquarium galleries, and a planetarium we provide a fun and interactive learning environment. Our mission is to change lives and inspire learning through science and wonder!

From engaging school field trips, homeschool classes, and preschool programs to summer camps, birthday parties, and adult science we have something for everyone. Come explore the wonders of the natural world in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that fosters curiosity and discovery!

 

painted turtle

 

butterfly

So Many Things to Discover!

TODAY'S PROGRAMS & EVENTS

  • Naturalist Program: Build Your Own Cryptid

    April 26, 2025  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Unleash your imagination with the knowledge you know about critters and creatures to build your very own cryptid, at this month's Naturalist Program: Build Your Own Cryptid. On Saturday, April 26th from 10 AM – 12 PM in the Naturalist Center. 

    Free event with purchase of admission.


TODAY'S PLANETARIUM SHOWS

  • Expedition Reef

    April 26, 2025  11:00 am - 11:26 am

    26 minutes

    Learn the secrets of the “rainforests of the sea” as you embark on an oceanic safari of the world’s most vibrant—and endangered—marine ecosystems. Discover how corals grow, feed, reproduce, and support over 25% of all marine life on Earth—while facing unprecedented threats from climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing.  

    Show Begins at 11:00AM


  • One World One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure

    April 26, 2025  2:00 pm - 2:25 pm

    25 minutes

    Big Bird and his friends Elmo and Hu Hu Zhu explore how the Earth, moon, and night sky are similar for all people no matter where they live. This show examines the similarities and differences between the earth and the moon.   

    Show Begins at 2:00 PM


  • Expedition Reef

    April 26, 2025  3:00 pm - 3:26 pm

    26 minutes

    Learn the secrets of the “rainforests of the sea” as you embark on an oceanic safari of the world’s most vibrant—and endangered—marine ecosystems. Discover how corals grow, feed, reproduce, and support over 25% of all marine life on Earth—while facing unprecedented threats from climate change, habitat destruction, and overfishing.  

    Show Begins at 3:00 PM