CHANGING LIVES AND INSPIRING LEARNING THROUGH SCIENCE AND WONDER.

 

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!

 


Current Featured Exhibit:

DINOSAURS! Open NOW - December 6th

 

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So Much to Discover!

Ways to Support!

TODAY'S PROGRAMS & EVENTS

  • CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC

    May 5, 2026

  • TUNE-IN TUESDAY

    May 5, 2026  2:00 pm - 2:30 pm

    Get ready to go behind the scenes like never before! Join us on the 1st and  3rd Tuesday a month at 2 PM for our brand-new Facebook Live series, Tune in Tuesday.

    This interactive experience brings you closer to the science center with exclusive behind-the-scenes access, fun facts you won’t hear anywhere else, and special features on the people, animals, and exhibits that make our center so unique.

    Best of all, you’re part of the show! Ask questions in real time, connect with our team, and dive deeper into the science that sparks your curiosity.

TODAY'S PLANETARIUM SHOWS

  • CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC

    May 5, 2026

Meredith C.

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.

– Meredith C.

Tiffany F.

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.

– Tiffany F.

Denise G.

Fabulous and I don’t often give praise. We took our grandson and were there for hours. He loved it and so did we.

– Denise G.

Sam H.

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.

– Sam H.

Larry W.

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.

-Larry W.

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