Catawba Science Center

CHANGING LIVES AND INSPIRING LEARNING THROUGH SCIENCE AND WONDER.

Children exploring interactive science museum exhibits
Catawba Science Center

CHANGING LIVES AND INSPIRING LEARNING THROUGH SCIENCE AND WONDER.

Hickory, NC's hands-on science center where you'll find engaging exhibits, a planetarium, aquarium, and more! Come explore the wonders of the natural world in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that fosters curiosity and discovery!

Looking for fun and educational things to do in Hickory and Western NC?

Plan a visit to Catawba Science Center, a 35,000 sq. ft. science and technology center that offers a wide range of engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. With hands-on exhibits, animal habitats, salt and freshwater aquarium galleries, and a planetarium, we provide a fun and interactive learning environment.

Current Featured Exhibit
Child interacting with dinosaur museum exhibit

Educational Programs

Public Programs

From Itty Einstein Science Time! and Scout Science to Summer Fun Science Camps, Birthday Parties, and Science After Dark — there's something for every curious mind.

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School Programs

Engaging field trips, outreach programs, homeschool days, preschool experiences, and educator resources designed to bring science to life for students of all ages.

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Membership Perks

Become a Member!

Unlimited visits, exclusive perks, discounts, and a community of science lovers for s full year!

Discounts & Savings
Travel Perks
Unlimited Admission
Exclusive Access

Upcoming Events & Programs

Adult Event

Science After Dark

An after-hours evening of science fun with adult beverages available! Ages 21+

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Competition

Hickory Bot Battles

Watch homemade robots battle it out in this exciting 2 day robotics competition!

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Festival

NC Scifest

Celebrate science across North Carolina with hands-on activities matching the year's theme!

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Festival

BoBfest

A place for regional astronomers to gather and share in their mutual love for the stars and beyond!

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Robotics

Tech Club

Design, construct, and build your very own 1 lb combat robot. Learn skills like 3D printing, soldering, and more!

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Fundraiser

Annual Dinner & Auction

Join us for CSC's largest fundraiser and an evening of dancing, dining, live and silent auctions, games, and more!

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Support the Science Center

Your generosity fuels discovery. Every gift helps us create transformative science experiences for our community.

Ways to Support →

Hours

  • Wed–Sat: 10am–4pm
  • Sun: 1pm–4pm
  • Mon & Tue: Closed
  • Office Hours: Mon – Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm.

Admission

  • Members: FREE
  • Adult (18+): $16
  • Youth (3–17): $14
  • Military/Student/Senior: $14
  • Children 2 & Under: FREE

Location

On the SALT Block

243 Third Avenue NE Hickory, NC 28601

(828) 322-8169

Get Directions →
Catawba Science Center

Changing lives and inspiring learning through science and wonder.

SERM — Southeastern Reciprocal MembershipASTC Passport ProgramNC Science Festival

Funded Affiliate of

Arts Culture Catawba

through the United Arts Fund

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© 2026 Catawba Science Center · Located in Hickory, NC — within a short drive from Morganton, Statesville, Lenoir, Lincolnton, and Charlotte.