Indoor Play Atlas
Source-checked Apr 7, 2026Children's Museums

Catawba Science Center

Hickory, NC

Hands-on Hickory science museum with exhibits, aquarium galleries, public planetarium shows, memberships, and science-themed birthday parties.

Exhibits at Catawba Science Center in Hickory

Editorial notes

What stands out

Think museum outing with built-in wow factors, not padded-play drop-in; it is especially useful for mixed-age sibling groups.

Good fit

  • Mixed-age families who want science exhibits, aquarium viewing, and planetarium time
  • School-age kids who enjoy hands-on learning
  • Families wanting a museum membership option with repeat-visit value

Consider another option if

  • Toddlers looking mainly for soft play or climbing equipment
  • Families expecting a café-style play space
  • Parents who want seven-day-a-week access

Know Before You Go

Supervision model
Caregiver supervised

What to Expect

For kids

  • Toddlers
  • Preschoolers
  • Big kids
  • Mixed ages
  • Museum exhibits
  • Membership available

For caregivers

  • Caregiver supervised
Visit type
Plan ahead museum outing
Read more about this location

Catawba Science Center is a hands-on science museum in Hickory that works best for families who want a mixed-age indoor outing with more to do than a simple play structure. General admission includes exhibit halls, aquarium galleries, and public planetarium shows, and the center also runs preschool programs, camps, and birthday parties. It is a strong pick for families with both younger kids and school-age siblings who enjoy interactive museum play, animals, and science-centered discovery.

Hours & Admission

Posted hours

Check posted weekly hours

View full weekly hours
Weekly posted opening hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Based on posted weekly hours. Holidays, private events, seasonal schedules, and special closures may differ.

Admission

Published admission prices
VisitorPrice
Youth 3 To 17$14 + tax
Adult 18 Plus$16 + tax
Children 2 And UnderFree
Military Student Senior$14 + tax

Admission details can change. Confirm current fees before visiting.

Birthday Parties

Party or event options reported

Catawba Science Center offers science-themed birthday parties through its public-programs section.

Accessibility

Features

Wheelchair-accessible venue

Accessibility and comfort

Wheelchair accessible

Location

243 3rd Ave NE

Hickory, NC, 28601

Get directions

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Sources & Updates

Source-checked Apr 7, 2026 against 3 public sources

View source and update details
Last check on record
Apr 7, 2026
Sources reviewed
3 public sources

Public sources