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
June 5, 2026
Dinosaurs: A Story of Survival
June 5, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Follow a curious girl names Celeste and her magical guide, Moon as they travel back to the Mesozoic Era to to explore the astounding diversity of prehistoric life and ultimately uncover the evolutionary link between dinosaurs and modern birds.
Dynamic Earth
June 5, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Explore the inner workings of the Earth's climate systems, including the atmosphere, hyrosphere, and biosphere, with visualizations based on satellite monitoring data and advanced supercomputer simulations.
The Little Star That Could
June 5, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
The story about Little Star, an average yellow star in search of planets of his own to protect and warm. Along the way he meets other stars, learns what makes each star special, and discovers that stars combine to form clusters and galaxies. Learn basic information about our solar system as Little Star goes on his adventures.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fabulous and I don’t often give praise. We took our grandson and were there for hours. He loved it and so did we.