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 freshwateraquarium galleries, and a planetariumwe 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!
Turtle Travels Members-Only Opening!
May 16, 2025
Turtle Travels is opening at the Catawba Science Center on May 17th! Members-only opening May 16th. Turtle Travels showcases the incredible journey undertaken by turtles. Learn about migration patterns, nesting habitats, and conservation efforts related to these fascinating creatures at this exhibit.
Not a Member? Join today to see exhibits early and anytime FREE! Click HERE to learn more.
Magic Tree House: Mission to Space
May 16, 2025 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
30 minutes
Travel with Jack and Annie, stars of the Magic Tree House® bestselling children’s book series, as they visit an observatory and beyond into space with the help of an astronomer and astronaut.
Show Begins at 2:00 PM
Always Above
May 16, 2025 3:00 pm - 3:12 pm
12 minutes
Always Above explores how close space is to our daily lives, what type of satellites are up there, the threats that exist, and the role that the U.S. Space Force plays in launching, operating, and defending these assets.
Show Begins at 3:00 PM
What a wonderful place to visit! Great environment to learn and the staff is very helpful! Hickory is lucky to have great family education and entertainment.
Fabulous and I don’t often give praise. We took our grandson and were there for hours. He loved it and so did we.
Took the kiddos and they loved it. Employees were nice and helpful. If your looking for something to do with the kids give this place a shot.
This place was great. We have kids from 8 to 1 and they all had a great time. What I really liked is most of the exhibits are hands on and that really kept them occupied.
We love the Science Center! I take my 2 and 4 year old boys weekly to play and enjoy the exhibits. The staff are wonderful and the classes offered are excellent! We are so blessed to have such an amazing resource in our area.