the moon. The same year, my entire fifth grade class visited the New York Hall of Science. We thrilled as we sat in a theater, our seats moving in time to the floating space capsule on the screen. There, that day, my lifelong love for science centers was born.
Now, more than 30 years later, a new generation of learning centers is poised to win over young audiences with the wonders of science. Brand-new science centers as well as expansions and renovations to established facilities are springing up around the country, offering high-tech gizmos and gadgets for hands-on fun. Some centers are also incorporating entire wings devoted to the visual and performing arts, and discovery areas specially designed for our youngest scientists--children under five.
Science City in Missouri is just one of the many new or renovated science playgrounds that dot the country. Begin your child's appreciation of the wonders of science at Science City or another science center near you.
SCIENCE CITY AT UNION STATION
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
This sprawling science center occupies one of the last monumental train stations ever built. With nearly one million square feet of space, this landmark station was recently renovated into an urban-themed playspace consisting of 50 city environments.
In re-created neighborhoods, staff members play city dwellers and workers while visitors become the tourists. Kids can design a sight-seeing tour at the Travel Agent, prepare a local TV weather report, dig up fossils and search for genealogical clues in Grandma's Attic. This virtual city also includes restaurants, shops, a planetarium and theaters. Admission is $8.95 for adults and $6.95 for kids ages 4 to 12. Sundays are half-price. Call 877-SCI-CITY or 816-460-2020 or click here for more information.
Troy Corley is a writer in Los Angeles.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.
