1 / 2Catawba Science Center
📍 Hickory, NC
Catawba Science Center in Hickory, NC combines a live aquarium, planetarium shows, dinosaur exhibits, and interactive science displays under one roof. Combo tickets cover multiple attractions.
Really cool place to check out of in the area. They had a dinosaur exhibit or and they moved so the younger children tonight that was amazing. They also have a ton of other things such as things in motion and museum items. You can also purchase a ticket that allows you to get into both places including the aquarium that's on site to see the stingray and other live animals! Fun for all ages and wheelchair accessible!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with kids aged 3 to 12 who respond to hands-on science and large-scale dinosaur displays. The planetarium suits school-age kids especially well; an evening visit for a night sky show is worth planning separately. Families with very young toddlers will find plenty to engage them in the dinosaur and motion exhibits.
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💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →295 Google reviews
Amos Famous
“Really cool place to check out of in the area. They had a dinosaur exhibit or and they moved so the younger children tonight that was amazing. They also have a ton of other things such as things in motion and museum items. You can also purchase a ticket that allows you to get into both places including the aquarium that's on site to see the stingray and other live animals! Fun for all ages and wheelchair accessible!”
J C
“Always clean always friendly great place to bring your kids to avoid tv screens”
Creation Best
“We went late so kinda rushed through it. My grandson loved it and didnt want to leave. It was cool...kinda feels a bit dated from other science centers I visited. But the staff is wonderful and very helpful. We do plan to take him back and even check out Planetarium at night one day to.”
Dennis Crews
“The staff was very helpful. It was good for the price. The only reasons I did not give the 5 was because parking was difficult to figure out”
Reviews from Google
Overview
At 243 3rd Ave NE in Hickory, Catawba Science Center packs genuine variety into a compact footprint. Current rotating exhibits include a dinosaur display that animatronics have made a hit with younger visitors. Permanent galleries include hands-on science and motion exhibits. The planetarium offers a separate ticketed experience — evening shows are a reviewer favorite. Combo tickets let families access both the main museum and additional attractions.