Science Center of Iowa

We had an absolutely fantastic afternoon exploring the Science Center of Iowa. This place is a phenomenal intellectual hub right in downtown Des Moines, and it is completely packed with hands-on, interactive galleries that make science feel like a massive adventure. We spent hours in the "Brick by Brick" LEGO architecture exhibit trying out engineering challenges, built and launched our own model rockets, and got to walk through the brilliant "What On Earth?" native habitat exhibit. The layout is exceptionally spacious and well-organized across multiple massive learning labs, and having the indoor planetarium right on-site is a huge highlight. Every staff member and programs presenter we encountered was incredibly high-energy and enthusiastic, often stopping to show the kids how to run their own mini experiments. It is the absolute perfect way to spend a family afternoon. We will definitely be coming back on our next trip to the city!

I came here as a child and I still love this place. It seemed...like only half of the building had stuff going on. But I think they had another exhibit that wasn't open at the time. If there was one thing I could say. "In my opinion" This place really needs stickers and magnets that say the name of the science center on it. Just hands down a must in my general opinion. The kids will want plushes and toys and books. But parents and people passing through will want a magnet and or a sticker. Other then that I had a blast here. My siblings (13 years old) had fun. My parents had fun, my little brother has Autism and he did very well. He had fun he was happy. Everything that other kids did he did to, the spaces were big enough that when he got excited he could stim. My faimly as a whole loved it and I highly recommend this place.

Our daughters had an exceptional experience at the girls' science day. The event was meticulously organized, with all booths, including those from Corteva, Microsoft, Drake, Vermeer, the Heart Center, and the Iowa DNR, providing engaging and educational setups for attendees. The availability of prizes and treats further enhanced the experience for the girls. We are highly inclined to return, as our daughters were thoroughly captivated by the event. The facility maintained impeccable cleanliness, and the staff demonstrated remarkable friendliness and courtesy. We felt entirely secure allowing our daughters to explore the center independently. We wholeheartedly recommend this facility.

This place turned out to be an incredible spot to visit with our 3-year-old! 👨‍👩‍👦✨ There were so many fun and interesting things for kids to explore that our little one was excited from the moment we walked in. The nature center was especially fascinating 🐍🐝 — seeing the snakes up close was cool, but the bee display was probably the most impressive part. The glass hive actually connects to the outside, so the bees fly in and out while you can safely watch them working inside. It’s surprisingly mesmerizing! All of the animals seemed healthy and well cared for, which made the experience even better 🐾. We didn’t even manage to see everything because we spent so much time in the “Toying with Science” exhibit. That area is basically a giant hands-on playground where kids can build LEGO cars, launch air rockets, experiment with a ball wall, and even create little water dams 🚀🧱💧. Our little guy had an absolute blast and played until he was completely worn out 😄. If you’re visiting Des Moines with kids, this is easily one of the best ways to spend a few fun and educational hours togeth

Fun place to go and bring a family. My sister visited from out of state and this was a go to visit for her son who is 9. It is more kid oriented but it's a good time for adults too. Not sure how often they change what they show but once our daughter is a little older and can understand things more we will bring her back again.

A highly successful field study in childlike wonder. We spent the day at the Science Center of Iowa, and the results were conclusive: curiosity increased, energy remained high, and boredom was nowhere to be found — despite one researcher’s prediction to the contrary. The exhibits kept the kids engaged from start to finish, but the major event horizon of the day was definitely watching the snapping turtle eat a mouse. That moment alone may live in family lore for years. Hand sanitizer stations were strategically positioned throughout the facility, allowing researchers to maintain hygiene protocols between exhibits. In summary: strong atmosphere, excellent activity levels, and a very favorable outcome for family fun. We’ll be back for further research.

It’s very good for children 12 and under. Teens may not like much. There is one section where lots of structures are made of Lego. They have unique dome theater as well. Movie selection can improve.

The Science Center of Iowa is a fun and interactive place, especially great for kids. There are lots of LEGO activities, hands-on exhibits, and friendly staff. The space is clean and well organized. However, it is quite small compared to science museums in nearby states, so you may finish exploring quickly but still a nice spot to visit in Des Moines. (You must purchase a Ticket to enter)