About
If the weather isn't cooperating, or you have budding scientists and those who are curious, visit the McWane Science Center.
Since opening its doors in 1998, this Iron City landmark has become a hub for discovery and innovation. It's in the historic Loveman's department store building and was key to revitalizing the downtown area.
This intriguing center came about when the Red Mountain Museum and Discovery Place merged. It was backed by the McWane Foundation, a family known for its civic contributions. The McWane Foundation built a state-of-the-art, 180,000-square-foot facility to engage visitors of all ages.
The museum's website motto best sums it up: "Sparking Wonder & Curiosity About Our World." When you visit, you'll be in awe of the permanent and special events spread across four levels.
The World of Water showcases over 50 species of aquatic life, complete with touch tanks for hands-on experiences. Kindergarten and preschool children love the Itty Bitty Magic City. The vibrant playground offers an immersive experience that ignites children's imaginations.
Additionally, the attraction goes above and beyond to champion STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. With hands-on workshops, interactive labs, and resources for educators, the center empowers learning and interest in STEM careers.
Being downtown, the McWane Science Center is close to other attractions. For instance, you could combine visiting the center with a Birmingham Barons Baseball Club game at Regions Field. Next to the ball field is Railroad Park, offering trails, green space, and playgrounds.
When looking for a Birmingham attraction that will appeal to young and old, add McWane Science Center to your itinerary.
McWane Science Center: Fun Facts & Cool Features
One impressive feature is the fossil collection, with over 500,000 items! The paleontology gallery features jaw-dropping specimens like the Appalachiosaurus, an Alabama-native dinosaur. You'll marvel at the Basilosaurus cetoides, an 80-foot prehistoric whale that once swam through prehistoric seas. This fossil is so iconic that it holds the title of Alabama's official state fossil.
The World of Water features tanks showcasing rivers, lakes, oceans, and coral habitats. Imagine seeing alligator gar and bass swimming in the river and lake tanks, while eels and tropical fish dart about in the ocean and coral habitats.
The renovated touch tank lets guests feel the texture of stingrays and small sharks. But don't fear; these are the harmless bamboo and epaulet sharks, which grow 2-3 feet long.
Families with little ones can't miss Itty Bitty Magic City. Children's imaginations soar when they experience a kid-sized supermarket and even a pint-sized construction zone. The area inspires creativity and problem-solving, making for hands-on fun!
Of course, there's no skipping the IMAX Dome Theater! The towering, curved screen breaks the barriers of traditional film experiences. Guests enter a cinematography world where topics like outer space and ocean exploration become larger-than-life!
While Bean Sprouts Cafe in the center offers food and drinks, plenty of nearby restaurants also exist. Pizza Grace is perfect for lunch, while June Coffee will get mom and dad caffeinated before parading the kids through the center.
At the McWane Science Center, you can see fossils, touch rays, and learn about our diverse and complex world.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Birmingham to McWane Science Center:
- Head southeast on 5th Avenue North.
- Turn right onto 19th Street North.
- Continue for two blocks.
- Address: 200 19th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203.
Local Tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and have more time to explore.
- Become a member for discounts at this center and others nationwide.
- The center's Parking Deck is convenient but costs $5 for non-members.
- IMAX ticket costs are not for full-feature films.
