Science World
1455 Quebec Street
Vancouver, BC
Showtimes and Information: 604-443-7443
Information Services/Administration: 604-443-7440
info@scienceworld.ca
http://www.scienceworld.bc.ca

Location:
Science World is adjacent to the Main Street/Science World Skytrain Station.

General Information:
Science World British Colulmbia, a self-supporting non-profit organization, stimulates positive attitudes towards science and technology in a fun interactive environment, promoting the development of a knowledge-based society in British Columbia.

Age Group:
Babies: This is not an ideal activity for babies as most of the fun is derived from interactive displays or shows. If you're taking older kids as well, there's certainly no harm in bringing along your baby; he or she may enjoy some of the sights and sounds.

Toddlers: Once your toddler is 18 months, he or she will probably enjoy Science World. There is lots of space for them to run around, and there's even a "quiet area" on the second level, the Sara Stern Search Gallery, when the action gets overwhelming. This area focuses on natural history and has tanks housing snakes, bees, frogs and spiders, a beaver lodge, a spot to sit down and read some stories (they have some good books, but there's no harm in bringing your own as well), and Discovery Boxes you can get from staff to do your own experiments. Staff are able to suggest age-appropriate experiments.

For example, for younger kids, there is a box with different types of wood which, when hit with a stick, produce different tones. Have your child organize the blocks of wood from lowest to highest tone. Be sure to check out the Kidspace Gallery, designed for 3-6 year olds (although there doesn't seem to be a reason why it's not listed as appropriate for 18 months and up).

Exhibits change, so you may find a space ship, giant lego blocks, mirrors, mazes to drop balls through (the balls could be a choking hazard, so keep an eye on younger kids) and more!

Toddlers will probably also enjoy the various shows, particularly the bubble show and others which explore things they are already familiar with. Always fun is the giant piano keyboard to walk across in the Main Gallery on the Second Level.

Older children: Be sure to catch the Centre Stage shows. The presenters are very entertaining and your kids will learn something to boot! Otherwise, let your older children explore their interests, from physics, to the impact of mines on our communities and lives, to "tricking" your brain with visual illusions. For 7 to 10 year olds, there are also after school workshops available.

Hours of Operation:
TELUS World of Science and Gift Shop Hours
Monday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Weekends and holidays from 10 am to 6 pm.

*Open hours subject to change.

Cost: (Currently)
Please see website for the costs as they vary.

Science world also offers annual memberships which are a great deal if you plan to go at least a few times over the course of 12 months.

Parking
Paid public parking is available adjacent to Science World ($2 for two hours, $4 for up to 6 hours or $6 all day). There is also free street parking (limited times) available across the street.

What is there to Do and See?
Science World is a fun place for toddlers and kids to play, not to mention their parents and caregivers! It's a great place to go on a rainy day, when your kids want to DO something. With hundreds of interactive displays, there is truly something for every interest and level of ability. You'll find yourself going back again and again. And there will always be new things to discover!

Summary of Features
• shows exploring different scientific principles in creative and fun ways. Your kids may even have the chance to be a volunteer in a show.
• interactive displays for kids of all ages.
• live habitats featuring the life of the bee, snakes, frogs, insects, geckos and spiders.
• trained staff throughout the facility to answer questions or help with "experiments".
• lots of space for kids to run around.
• the musical Tower of Bauble, an audio-kinetic sculpture, just in front of the entrance outside.
• Alcan Omnimax Theatre.
• 3D Laser Theatre.

There are lots of temporary exhibitions, in addition to the permanent ones, and special events and activities going on. Check their website to see the current exhibits!

Tips:
1. Bring a lunch you can eat indoors in the specified areas, or eat outside on the grass area if its nice out!
2. A trip to Science World can easily fill a half day, but even an hour or two is worth the adventure and can provide good fun and learning.
3. Be prepared there is a lot going on and to see and do prepare your kids and tell the how you expect them to stay together and possibly let each child pick the next activity!
4. Ferries - Both False Creek Ferries and the Aquabus stop at Science World.
5. Go early, before it gets too busy. Best is to be there as it opens, at 10am.
6. When you purchase your tickets, ask for a schedule of the day's shows so you don't miss the action.
7. Bring an extra shirt for younger kids who plan to play in the Kidspace Gallery. There is a water game that kids can't resist and sleeves take the brunt of the action!