Dynamic Earth (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Dynamic Earth?
What makes it 93% Kids-Friendly: Children aged 4-12 get hands-on galleries, soft play, science clubs, and planetarium shows, all indoors and safe, so the attraction excels for curious kids and merits a near-top score.
Positives:
- Multi-Sensory Learning: Interactive exhibits use sound, smell, and touch to keep kids engaged.
- Under-4s Go Free: Your younger child enters free, letting you focus budget on the older child.
Challenges:
- Annual Pass Only: All tickets are sold as annual passes, even for a single visit.
- Peak-Time Crowds: Weekends and school holidays can get busy; expect queues.
What is Dynamic Earth?
- A science and technology centre tracing the Earth’s history from the Big Bang to the present
- A landmark pavilion characterised by a white tensile roof and contemporary geometric architecture
- A multidisciplinary museum housing interactive exhibits and a full-dome planetarium exploring geology, climate and cosmic evolution
What is so special about Dynamic Earth for with kids?
- Explore hands-on galleries tracing Earth’s story from the Big Bang to rainforests.
- Enjoy a 30-minute planetarium show included with admission to spark curiosity.
- Kids under 10 get free soft play access to burn off energy in a sea-themed playground.
- Under-4s enter free, and activity packs keep younger children focused.
- Seasonal trails and workshops add extra fun at a small cost.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This gives time to explore core galleries, enjoy a planetarium show, and use the soft play without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Dynamic Earth
Immersive Core Exhibition:
Walk through seven galleries showing Earth’s history, from the Big Bang to rainforests.
Tip: Start here so kids can touch real ice and feel a simulated monsoon.
Daytime Planetarium Show:
Enjoy a 30-minute astronomy presentation under the dome, included with admission.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure front-row seats for little ones.
Ocean Commotion Soft Play:
Let children under 10 climb, slide, and explore a sea-themed play area in the basement.
Tip: Soft play is free with admission; pack socks for your kids to wear.
Explorer Activity Packs:
Borrow packs with toys and simple tools to guide kids through exhibits.
Tip: Pick up a pack at the Welcome Desk to keep younger children engaged.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Dynamic Earth
- Buy Online: Book passes online to skip the ticket line and secure entry times.
- Time Your Visit: Arrive at opening to explore galleries before crowds build.
- Use Explorer Packs: Borrow activity packs to focus kids on key exhibits and reduce screen time.
Reviews of Dynamic Earth
Ron George
A must visit. The staff were excellent, everyone were very helpful and engaging. The planetarium show 'You are here' was very good. The lady who presented it did a great job.
Stephen Caldwell
This is a brilliant place, so much to see and do! Very well done, you can’t go wrong! Staff are amazing, helpful and knowledgeable. A fantastic day out. We pre booked, and also parked there. Food was great too! 👌🏻
Kinga Surmiak
I highly recommend visiting Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh for a fun and educational family day out! It’s an amazing place where both kids and adults can learn about the history of our planet through interactive exhibits, stunning visuals, and engaging activities. The staff are friendly and the whole experience is really well organized. Perfect for a family trip – everyone will enjoy it!
María Carballo
Beautiful venue to attend a concert. The only issue it was too hot and they didn't have AC, I know it's Scotland and many places don't have AC, apart from that beautiful place.
Byron Farrow
A very worthwhile experience if it's your first time, interesting and informative with something of a focus on the history of Earth Science that is rare to see. But if you have been before then it's not much changed since your last visit, the parking is expensive (and poorly signposted) and the lifts to the car park may not be working.
When is the best time to visit Dynamic Earth (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Check Dynamic Earth’s website for Halloween and Easter trails. Halloween Trail costs £4.50 extra per child. Spring and summer workshops may be free with admission.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Two Adult Annual Passes | GBP 43 |
| Child Annual Pass (4–15) | GBP 13.5 |
| Ocean Commotion Soft Play ticket | GBP 2 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 58.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Dynamic Earth
Address: Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8AS, UK
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About Dynamic Earth
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 131 550 780010 BEST nearby Activities
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