What is DaVinci Science Center? A Jersey Momma Review

Wednesday, May 31, 2017
If you love the Liberty Science Center and you're looking for another fun science destination that's not too far outside of New Jersey, you might want to try DaVinci Science Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

**This post has been updated for 2021!


Disclosure: this is not a sponsored post. We visited Da Vinci Science Center on our own and here I am, sharing with ya!


Important Reopening Information 2021

**Da Vinci Science Center's regular museum area remains closed BUT they have an Under the Canopy live animal Rainforest exhibit that IS open . Timed tickets must be purchased in advance. They are also offering private tours of the Rainforest exhibit (separate fee). Read all about Under the Canopy: Animals of the Rainforest hereYou can read their full update and protocols here

The information below is of the main museum area, which we are hoping will reopen soon! Stay tuned for updates!


What is DaVinci Science Center?

DaVinci Science Center is exactly what its name implies- it is a small science center (sort of like a hands-on museum, a la Liberty Science Center), with two floors of exhibits, hands-on activities and displays for children. They are open 7 days a week.

If you've never been to a science center, the general idea of them is that kids can learn through play and experimentation. They push and pull levers, experiment with water, sound, and light. They build mechanisms and touch/feel things. They see computers in action and learn how things are constructed. Elementary schools are now putting greater emphasis on STEM (incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering and Math into learning), and most science museums do just that.


Where is Da Vinci Science Center and How Much Will it Cost Me?

DaVinci Science Center is located off of Rt. 78 for those coming from New Jersey.  But it is also accessible from route 22, the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Pennsylvania Rt. 309.  As of the publication date of this entry, a general admission ticket for anyone age 3 and up is $14.95. Kids under 3 are free. Always look online for coupon codes or check their Facebook page for specials, and check their website for current ticket rates. Parking is free!


What Will I See at DaVinci Science Center?

The Center is essentially smaller, simpler version of the Liberty Science Center.  There are hands-on displays and experiments for kids to try. There are various rooms filled with things to touch and play with. Check their Exhibits page to see what is currently appearing at the center when you want to visit.


There are some great displays of nano items, home energy, sea life (complete with touch tank), and some fun building planks called Keva blocks. The Jersey Momma's Boy loved building with these!


What Age is DaVinci Science Center Good For?

Sometimes it's hard to judge what age to bring a child to a science museum. When we visit science museums, we try our best to read the displays with our kiddo and help him understand each attraction. Kids 5 and under tend to rush through science museums, just pushing and pulling levers. It's sometimes hard for them to wait in line and take turns for displays that require patience, too. In my opinion, you'll get more for your money if you wait till your kids are 5 and up to visit a museum like this (but, ultimately, you know your child best!).

DaVinci Science Center offers special Little Learner Activities for ages 2-6. Read all about that here or call ahead to check for availability!


Things to Note

*There was a small souvenir shop but since I was visiting during a field trip, we did not stop in.  You know I was a little sad about this, since I love souvenir shopping!

*There is no restaurant but there are vending machines and small tables to sit at. As a visiting school, we were permitted to bring lunches, but I don't know if this is the case with regular visitors.  You might want to call ahead to ask if you can bring lunch.  If not, there are places in the area to dine if you drive outside the museum.

*Their website has a great facts and tips page that is worth reading before your visit. They give general tips and suggestions for your visit.  Click here to read it in full.

*DaVinci Science Center has fun special events and you can even have children's birthday parties here. They can make special arrangements for scouting groups, field trips or large groups, too. They offer camps during school breaks and summer time. They sometimes have live science shows and outreach programs.

*Annual memberships are available if you plan on becoming a frequent visitor!

*FYI, DaVinci Science Center is not far from Dorney Park and Planet Snoopy! Just for location reference.

You can find DaVinci Science Center here:
3145 Hamilton Blvd. Bypass
Allentown, PA 
484-664-1002
Visit them on Facebook and Twitter, too!

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