The Science Center
University Mall, Carbondale, IL
Hands-on children’s museum in Carbondale with STEM exhibits, climb-and-slide play, live animals, free Wednesdays, and strong birthday options.
Editorial notes
What stands out
Choose this one when you want the indoor-play payoff of movement and exploration, but also want the visit to feel educational rather than purely physical.
Good fit
- Families who enjoy hands-on museums
- Mixed-age kids with different interests
- Birthday parties with an activity component
- Budget-minded visits, especially on free Wednesdays
Consider another option if
- Kids who only want a large active playground
- Families seeking a high-energy soft-play venue
Know Before You Go
- Supervision model
- Caregiver supervised
What to Expect
For kids
- Babies
- Toddlers
- Preschoolers
- Big kids
- Mixed ages
- Museum exhibits
For caregivers
- Caregiver supervised
- Visit type
- Best as a slower, exploratory outing.
Read more about this location
The Science Center is a hands-on children’s museum inside University Mall in Carbondale, serving infants through teens with interactive STEM exhibits and open-ended learning. Families can expect a broader museum-style visit than a pure indoor playground, with a climb-and-slide play element, live-animal encounters, building and exploration stations, camps, outreach, and a well-developed birthday program. It is especially appealing if you want play and learning in the same outing.
Hours & Admission
Posted hours
Check posted weekly hours
View full weekly hours
| Monday | Closed – campers only |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed – campers only |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
Based on posted weekly hours. Holidays, private events, seasonal schedules, and special closures may differ.
Admission
| Visitor | Price |
|---|---|
| Free Admission | Infants age 2 and under are free. |
| General Admission | $7.50 per person |
Admission details can change. Confirm current fees before visiting.
Location
1237 East Main Street
Suite 1048
Carbondale, IL, 62901
Other options nearby
Saluki Gymnastics
Carbondale gymnastics gym with scheduled open gyms, classes, camps, and weekend birthday parties for active kids.
Ultimate Gymnastics & Cheerleading
Carbondale gymnastics gym with weekly open gyms, inflatables, trampolines, parties, and class-based active play.
Source reviewedExtreme Kids
Marion activity center with scheduled Extreme Bounce sessions, gymnastics-based programs, party options, and energetic indoor play.
Sources & Updates
Source-checked Apr 9, 2026 against 3 public sources
View source and update details
- Last check on record
- Apr 9, 2026
- Sources reviewed
- 3 public sources
Public sources
- Official websitesciencecentersi.com
Checked: address, hours, admission, museum features
- Official parties pagesciencecentersi.com
Checked: party pricing, party inclusions
- Official social linksinstagram.com
Checked: recent venue presence
What changed
Refreshed editorial copy, planning details, and source verification on 2026-04-09.