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.
The Museum of Natural Sciences in North Carolina 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 the Museum of Natural Sciences or another science center near you.
MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCES
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
Spanning 200,000-square-feet, this facility is not only the Southeast's largest natural history museum, it's also the only place in the world where you can see the skeleton of a 110 million-year-old predatory dinosaur, Acrocanthosaurus atokensis.
Known as Acro, or the Terror of the South, this giant rests alongside exhibits showcasing more than 200 species of live animals, from a two-toed sloth to a hellbender (a 2-foot-long salamander). Other live creatures include crabs and beetles in the Arthropod Zoo, and hummingbirds in the Living Conservatory. Admission is free although donations are "cheerfully accepted." Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 877-4-NATSCI. 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 August 2005.
