Children's Museums

McWane Science Center

Name: McWane Science Center
Address: 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203, Birmingham, AL, US
Telephone: (205) 714-8300
Rating: 4.7

★★★★☆ 4.7 (5192 reviews)

📍 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

📞 (205) 714-8300

🌐 www.mcwane.org/?utm_source=GMBlisting&utm_medium=organic

Visit Website 📍 Get Directions

🕐 Hours

Monday	Closed
Tuesday	Closed
Wednesday	9 AM–5 PM
Thursday	9 AM–5 PM
Friday	9 AM–5 PM
Saturday	10 AM–5 PM
Sunday	12–5 PM

⭐ Want to stand out? Get featured ⭐

About McWane Science Center

Museum featuring IMAX films & exhibits. IMAX theater & interactive exhibits including a space center & dinosaur fossils in a 4-story venue. The IMAX theater is a major draw with 201 mentions in reviews, indicating it's one of the facility's most popular attractions. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,192 visitors.

Quick Facts

Type: Science Center
Best For: All ages
Main Attractions: IMAX Dome Theater, hands-on exhibits, dinosaurs, shark tank, bubble room
Special Features: Interactive exhibits, special programs, after-hours events
Membership: Available

💡 Did You Know?

⭐The IMAX theater is a major draw with 201 mentions in reviews, indicating it's one of the facility's most popular attractions
⭐The center features a 4-story venue with multiple interactive zones including stingray touch tanks mentioned in 46 reviews, an indoor playground, and hands-on exhibits designed for multi-generational appeal
⭐The facility offers specialized birthday party programming with dedicated event coordination and science demonstrations, as evidenced by positive visitor testimonials about custom event experiences

💬 What Visitors Say

💬Plan for at least 3 hours to explore all three floors comfortably. Reviews show visitors spending this duration and still wanting more time, especially families with young children who engage extensively with interactive exhibits.
💡The IMAX theater is the most frequently mentioned attraction (201 mentions). Arrive early or book tickets in advance as this is the venue's signature experience and likely fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
💡The 2nd floor indoor playground and hands-on role-play stations (mechanic shop, restaurant setup) are perfect for young children ages 4-6 and will keep them engaged for extended periods. This is ideal if you have kids in this age range.
💡Consider booking a birthday party or special program event at the venue. Reviews highlight that staff (like Melissa and Summer) provide seamless planning and above-and-beyond service, including science demonstrations that significantly enhance the experience.
🕐Visit on weekdays or during off-peak times rather than major holiday weekends (like Thanksgiving) when the center draws large crowds. Even 3-hour visits can feel rushed during peak times according to visitor reviews.