Pacific Science Center (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Pacific Science Center?
What makes it 93% Kids-Friendly: School-age children get hands-on water play, touch tanks, kid-length planetarium shows, and STEM labs; restrooms with changing tables and café nearby let parents manage long stays comfortably.
Positives:
- Hands-on fun for all ages: Interactive exhibits engage toddlers and tweens side by side.
- All-included access: Butterfly house, water exhibits, and most demos are free with general admission.
Challenges:
- Timed-entry shows: Planetarium and laser-dome tickets are free but can sell out; reserve early.
- Weather-dependent exhibits: Outdoor water play may close in rain or cold; have a backup plan indoors.
What is Pacific Science Center?
- A nonprofit science center and educational institution located within the Seattle Center complex
- Houses multiple specialized theaters, including an IMAX cinema and a domed planetarium for large-format science presentations
- Features diverse exhibit galleries, from a tropical butterfly atrium to interactive science labs and the Science on a Sphere visualization system
What is so special about Pacific Science Center for with kids?
- Interactive water and ball exhibits keep kids moving.
- Butterfly house and touch tanks offer gentle, hands-on learning.
- Timed planetarium and laser shows add themed, age-tailored experiences.
- Most activities are included with general admission, maximizing value.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to explore key interactive exhibits, see a planetarium show, and visit the butterfly house without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Pacific Science Center
Water Works:
Outdoor area with water cannons, giant spinning wheel, and a floating granite ball.
Tip: Bring a towel and a change of clothes; early visits avoid peak crowds.
Tropical Butterfly House:
Warm enclosure filled with free-flying butterflies amid lush plants.
Tip: Park strollers in the designated rack outside; no food or drinks inside.
Gravity Well:
Indoor funnel exhibit where balls spiral downward at different speeds.
Tip: Let kids drop tokens gently and watch together from the benches.
Planetarium Show:
Story-driven sky tours under a domed ceiling, with versions for preschoolers and older kids.
Tip: Reserve free timed tickets at the info desk upon arrival.
Touch Tanks:
Shallow aquariums of sea stars, anemones and other local marine life.
Tip: Ask staff which creatures are safe to touch and rinse hands afterward.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Pacific Science Center
- Start with outdoor exhibits: Visit Water Works and Gravity Well first to beat crowds and drying time.
- Book shows on arrival: Head to the info desk at opening to secure planetarium and laser-dome slots.
Reviews of Pacific Science Center
Amanda
Went specifically to check out the new spider exhibit. I loved it. If you are not a fan of spiders, you make not like this, but it's really fun and educational. I also went to the planetarium and the butterfly house. Really fun trip, I don't have kids so I just passed by all the more interactive exhibits.
Sujin Han
The K-pop Demon Hunters laser show was amazing and exceeded my expectations👍👍👍 The kids absolutely loved it! The bubble play and the butterfly exhibit were also really fun.
Erin Sarrett
There was so much to see and do here! Our group had a great time seeing things from the butterfly house to the laser show. There was a little bit of everything and my whole family was able to enjoy a beautiful facility.
Brandon H
Great place to take the kids. Price was half off and had a blast. Recommend the laser show if you have time. Pretty cool attractions all over. Miss the dinosaurs but sounds like something cool in the works. Definitely visit the spider exhibit.
Nicole Caldwell
This place is great for kids and adults too! I learned so much about space and the brain. I loved the toddler preschool age planetarium show for my 16 month old even if it's best for 2-5. It was a very slow day with only two babies and their moms today. Usually it's chaos with a little dancing part, the guide said, but today it was quiet and relaxing! The babes were loving sitting back on mom and...
When is the best time to visit Pacific Science Center (Seattle, United States)?
Water Works outdoors operates only in late spring to early fall. On rainy days, plan for more indoor exhibits and laser shows.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult general admission (2× $26.95) | USD 53.9 |
| Child general admission (2× $20.20) | USD 40.4 |
| Total Estimated | USD 94.3 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Pacific Science Center
Address: 200 Sue Bird Ct N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
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About Pacific Science Center
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
+1 206-443-200110 BEST nearby Activities
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