skip to Main Content
Science Engagement at McWaneMcWane Science Center is always delivering new adventures, experiences, and demonstrations for all ages.
Science ProgramsScience Programs

Science Programming at the Museum

A visit to McWane Science Center is more than just four floors of world-class exhibits—it’s an adventure in science, learning, and fun. One of the best ways we create lasting experiences is through our Science Engagement Program. Our team of science interpreters designs and delivers hands-on programs and shows every day at McWane. In fact, guests can catch a different program every hour!

Explore the daily program schedule in our calendar of events and visit McWane Science Center to immerse yourself in the wonders of physics, biology, nanoscience, and so much more!

View Calendar
a group of people sitting at a table

Locations & Sample Programs

Feel the heat in our Combustion Science Show, spark your love of physics in our Lightning Strikes Show, create your own engineering solutions in a daily design challenge, or meet our friendly animal ambassadors. These sample programs are just a taste of what we have in store—we’re always designing new experiences, so check the calendar frequently for new updates!

View Calendar
a group of people sitting on a stage in front of a crowd

Rushton Science Theater

Our 108-seat theater—and home to our very own Tesla coils—is located on Level 1. Sample programs include:

  • Combustion Science Show
  • Lightning Strikes!

The Workshop

Visit our hands-on design and engineering workshop, located on Level 1 next to the Bubble Room. Sample programs include:

  • Litter Getter Design Challenge
  • Stomp Rockets
  • Save Fred Design Challenge
  • Zip Line Design Challenge
  • Racing Robots
  • Lego Cars
a fish swimming under water

World of Water

Located on the lower level, the World of Water aquariums offer plentiful opportunities to meet animals and learn about their natural habitats. Sample programs include:

  • What’s in the Water
  • Ocean Animal Encounter
  • Sink or Float
  • Gulf Feeding
a store front at night

Explore Lab

Up on Level 2, you can have a hands-on encounter with rocks, fossils, rare minerals, skeletons, and more amazing artifacts! Sample programs include:

  • Leaf ID
  • Reinventing the Wheel
  • Craters
  • What Makes an Insect
  • Busy Bees

Demonstration Station

One of McWane’s many prime spots to feast your eyes on science in action is located on Level 1 near the Cool Stuff Store. Sample programs include:

  • Molecules in Motion
  • Chemistry is Colorful
  • Science of Magic
  • Spark of Life
  • Cleaning Up Oil Spills
a school bus parked in front of a building
Purchase TicketsPurchase Tickets

Plan Your Visit

Get more information about ticket purchases, directions, parking, and more so you can plan your visit to McWane Science Center in Birmingham, AL, today!

Plan Your Visit

Get in Touch

Have questions about our exhibits, programs, or admissions? Give us a call at (205) 714-8300.

Contact Us
Back To Top