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!

Extended Hours: CSC open until 5:30PM
August 14, 2026
Dinosaurs: A Story of Survival
August 14, 2026 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Celeste joins Moon in a journey through time. An exciting adventure that will show them dinosaurs and the Earth as it was in the very distant past.
Incoming!
August 14, 2026 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Asteroids, comets, and meteors, oh my! Explore the past, present, and future of our solar system and the landmark discoveries scientists have made sending spacecraft to visit tiny worlds.
One World, One Sly
August 14, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Big Bird and his friends Elmo and Hu Hu Zhu explore how the Earth, moon, and night sky are similar fro all people no matter where they live. This show examines the similarities and differences between the Earth and the moon.
Fabulous and I don’t often give praise. We took our grandson and were there for hours. He loved it and so did we.
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.
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.
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.
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.