Overview of Science World
1455 Quebec St, Vancouver, BC V6A 3Z7, Canada
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Phone +1 604-443-7440
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Family-friendly and guaranteed to fascinate visitors of all ages, Science World at TELUS World of Science is a hands-on educational science museum located in the heart of False Creek, Vancouver, BC. Instantly recognizable thanks to its unique globular ‘golf ball’ design, Science World has inspired over 13 million visitors since its opening in 1989.
1. Background
Science World’s iconic geodesic dome was originally constructed for the Expo 86 World Fair. After the festivities concluded, it saw a significant expansion, growing from 55,000 square feet to 100,000 square feet. Initially opened in the late 1980s, Science World expanded further in 2001 with the addition of Kidspace (a gallery for ages 2 to 6), a state-of-the-art Science Theatre, and Our World Gallery. The Eureka! Gallery debuted in 2002 and BodyWorks followed in 2007. In 2004, a $9 million partnership with TELUS led to its renaming. Subsequent renovations and expansions have solidified its status as a beloved component of Downtown Vancouver’s cityscape.
2. What to Do There
Hands-on interactive galleries include the physics-focused Eureka! Gallery, Our World: BMO Sustainability Gallery, and Kidspace for little budding scientists. Visitors can explore science-based facts at the Peter Brown Family Centre Stage in the Science Theatre or in one of the four teaching labs/classrooms. Be sure to experience the fascinating BodyWorks, an exhibit showcasing human and animal life beneath the surface, and attend a show at the OMNIMAX Theatre—the largest of its kind globally, featuring a stunning five-story screen with a wrap-around digital sound system that must be experienced.
Recent special exhibitions have included The Science Behind Pixar and A Mirror Maze: Numbers in Nature. The Pixar exhibit delved into the technological innovations behind beloved animated films, while the Mirror Maze explored mathematical patterns in nature. Notably, special exhibits are included in the general admission price!
3. Facilities
Visitors can browse the science-themed gift shop at Kaleidoscope, grab a snack at SnackLab’s concession stand, or enjoy a delicious burger from Triple O’s restaurant. Additionally, adults have the opportunity to attend monthly Science World After Dark events, featuring a relaxed environment to explore exhibits while enjoying wine or beer. Moreover, younger visitors have the chance to enjoy Twilight Tuesdays throughout the summer, complete with a movie at the OMNIMAX after hours.
4. What Else to Do Nearby
Situated on the picturesque False Creek, Science World is conveniently located near the AquaBus and False Creek Ferries. These ferries offer scenic rides to nearby Yaletown, Granville Island, or Kitsilano Beach and Vanier Park. Alternatively, adventurous visitors can rent kayaks from Olympic Village and explore False Creek at their own pace. Olympic Village is also home to several bars and restaurants, making it an ideal stop for lunch or a sunset supper after exploring Science World. Additionally, Main Street’s vintage shops and funky restaurants are only a short walk or bus ride away.
5. Getting There
The Main Street SkyTrain Station, located directly across from Science World, connects Downtown Vancouver to the transit system across the region via the Millennium Line. Furthermore, multiple buses stop at nearby locations such as Main Street Station and Olympic Village. The Olympic Village SkyTrain station, also part of the Canada Line network, is within walking distance and provides direct access to Richmond, YVR Airport, and further destinations.
6. Admission
During the summer, Science World operates daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (extended hours until 9 p.m. on Tuesdays); during other seasons, it remains open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays. The museum is closed on Christmas Day and September 5.
Admission prices start at $27.15 for adults, $21.70 for seniors and students/youth ages 13 to 18, and $18.10 for children aged 3 to 12 (children under three enter for free). For precise operating hours and ticket prices, visit the official website.
