Fixed locationChildren's Museums

Children's Science Center Lab

Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA

Interactive STEM museum inside Fair Oaks Mall with timed sessions, hands-on exhibits, and family science play.

Plan This Visit

Best for

best for ages 2-12

Price

$15 per person

Parking

Free parking

Visit style

timed museum play

Birthday parties

Available

Atlas Perspective

Editor's Take

A strong rainy-day choice when you want a real museum-style outing, not just a place to burn energy.

Atlas Perspective

Best Fit

Best For

Kids who love hands-on STEM and maker-style exhibits
Families seeking a more educational indoor outing
Parents who want a timed, manageable visit inside a mall with easy parking

Less Ideal For

Kids mainly looking for giant climbers or big slides
Families who want spontaneous all-day drop-in play
Visitors who need a fast high-energy playground experience

At a Glance

Venue type

Kids activity center

Age groups

ToddlersPreschoolersBig kidsMixed ages

Play features

Museum exhibitsSensory playPretend play

Family amenities

Free parkingFamily restrooms

Birthday party options

Birthday partiesParty packages

Accessibility and comfort

Wheelchair accessible

Visit options

Reservation requiredClasses or eventsMembership available

Price range

Mid-range

Toddler-friendly

Yes

Operator type

Nonprofit

Play model

Timed sessions

Supervision model

Mixed model

Max recommended age

Under 13

Structured classes or guided programming

Yes

Inside a larger venue or attraction

Yes

Inside mall or shopping center

Yes

Hours vary due to private events

Yes

Plan Your Visit

Age GuidanceDesigned for ages 2-12 and their families

ParkingFree mall parking near the Route 50-facing entrance by Dick's Sporting Goods

Session TimesSaturdays and Sundays 10:00-12:00, 13:00-15:00, 15:30-17:30; school holidays also offered

TicketsAdvance tickets strongly encouraged

Pricing Snapshot

Access ProgramMuseums for All tickets advertised at $2 per person

General Admission$15 per person

Online SavingsSave $2 per ticket when purchasing online

About the Venue

Children's Science Center Lab is Northern Virginia's interactive STEM-focused children's museum, located inside Fair Oaks Mall. Families visit in timed sessions built around hands-on exhibits, tinkering, and science play rather than free-form climbing. It is especially good for children ages 2-12 and works well for families who want an indoor outing with more educational structure than a standard play center.

Atlas Perspective