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a exterior view of Science World Vancouver.

Science World Vancouver – Where Entertainment Meets Education

Sparking wonder and nurturing aspirations, Science World Vancouver stands as a beacon of inspiration.

While some may dismiss it as a clichéd slogan, over a million visitors last year found themselves captivated—or at the very least, least kept their kids entertained for a couple hours.

Here’s a brief overview of what to expect when visiting Science World, Vancouver’s most educational tourist attraction.

  1. What is Science World?
  2. Exhibits
  3. Science World Tickets & Prices
  4. Hours
  5. How to get there
  6. The OMNIMAX Theatre
  7. Science World After Dark
  8. Visitor Tips
  9. Events
  10. FAQ

Visiting Science World  – Telus World of Science Vancouver

the exterior of science world reflecting in false creek vancouver

Science World is one of Vancouver’s top things to do and has been thrilling visitors for over 30 years.

The museum’s distinctive geodesic dome was first constructed to serve as the Expo Centre during the Vancouver World’s Fair: aka Expo ’86.

After the fair it was rebranded ‘Science World’, with tons of fully interactive indoor and outdoor science exhibits, displays, and galleries.

It’s also got the largest OMNIMAX theatre in the world.

Let’s take a look at what you’ll see.

Top Science World Exhibits

kids jump around in the wonder gallery vancouver bc
Instagram: @scienceworldca

Wonder Gallery

Recommended for: Age 5 and younger

The Wonder Gallery was developed by child development experts to stimulate the cognitive development, motor skills, and social intelligence of toddlers and infants.

It provides a variety of unique play areas spread out over 3,300 square feet.

Every area has different classifications like: experiment, crawl, splash, shine, climb, and build.

Here your child will have the unique benefit of learning through play.

Related: Best Things to Do in Vancouver with Kids

A live science display at Science World
Instagram: @scienceworldca

Peter Brown Family Centre Stage

If you wanna sit back and relax and watch some breathtaking displays of science, then the Peter Brown Family Centre stage is the place to be.

Especially if you wanna be part of the show!

The Family Centre stage is the home of live scientific displays in front of a studio audience who watch on in amazement.

Shows touch on any of a variety of topics like fire, electricity, chemistry, illusion, and much more.

Each show lasts around 20-30 minutes.

a child playing at tinkering space in vancouver canada
Instagram: @scienceworldca

Tinkering Space

Recommended for: Ages 7-18

Tinkering Space aims to demonstrate the relationship between science, engineering, and safety to youth before their introduction to the workforce.

The 900 square foot gallery contains a variety of interactive displays that allow visitors to tinker around choosing the right tools for an array of tasks.

The exhibit also focuses upon the impact of science and engineering on protective equipment, such as hearing and head protection.

This will leave visitors with an increased appreciation for creativity, innovation, and problem solving.

 

The Ken Spencer Science Park at Science WorldThe Ken Spencer Science Park

Recommended for: All ages

Located outdoors, the Ken Spencer Science Park allows guests to imagine their role in the creation of a healthier world. Here it’s all about environmental awareness.

Discover the implications of everyday choices in regards to food, energy, and transportation upon the environment.

The park comes complete with its own vegetable garden which grows 100 kilograms of produce a year for Vancouver’s homeless population.

It also includes a popular chicken-coop reinforcing the importance of local sourcing of food products.

*The Ken Spencer Science Park closes for the Winter.

a plasticized body at body works in vancouver bc canada

Body Works

Recommended for: Teenagers and adults

The world-famous Body Works display aims to instill visitors with a newfound understanding of the impact of their lifestyle choices upon their bodies.

Body Works shows actual reserved bodies in lifelike poses. The bodies have been preserved by a process called plastination that replaces water in the bodies’ tissues with a silicone rubber, hindering decomposition.

A major sensation worldwide, the display has been viewed by over 30 million visitors since its Tokyo debut in 1995.

Science World Vancouver Ticket Prices

  • Adults (19-64): $33.20
  • Seniors (65+): $26.75
  • Youth (13-18): $26.75
  • Children (3-12): $22.50

* Children under the age of 2 visit for free

** Visitors under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult (19+)

Science World Hours

  • Wednesday to Monday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Twilight Tuesdays: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm

*Doors close 15 minutes before closing time.

**Outdoor exhibits close during the Winter.

We recommend allowing at least 3 hours for your visit.

 
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How to Get to Science World?


Address: 1455 Quebec Street

Science World is conveniently located in the South-East corner of beautiful False Creek, on the edge of downtown Vancouver.

This makes it easily accessible with most Vancouver transit options like Skytrain or the False Creek Ferry.

If the sun is shining I recommend getting there on foot or by bike using the city’s world famous Seawall.

Skytrain

Telus World of Science is located a short walk from Main Street-Science World Station, on Skytrain’s Expo Line.

This is preferred method of transport for visitors with a hotel or hostel in the downtown area.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Get a one zone ticket at any downtown Skytrain station on the Expo Line (Waterfront, Burrard, Granville or Stadium).
  2. Board the train heading East towards King George Station until Main Street-Science World Station.
  3. Walk down the stairs and exit the station onto Main Street and follow it south for 30 meters until you reach Terminal Avenue.
  4. Turn right and you can’t miss it!

False Creek Ferries/Aquabus

There are two private companies that provide a small commuter ferry service throughout a variety of stops in the False Creek area.

The ferries provide a fantastic way to travel amongst the area’s main attractions, including Yaletown, Granville Island, and much more.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Board a False Creek Ferry or Aquabus with a one-way ticket bought aboard from your captain ($4.25-$5.75 depending).
  2. Relax and enjoy the views!
  3. Get off at Village Station, also known as Dock 8.
  4. Walk up the dock to The Seawall. Walk east about 300 meters.

* Fares are cash only unless boarding at Granville Island, where debit cards are accepted.

** If purchasing a return ticket note that tickets from the rival companies are not accepted by their competitors.

Driving

If you intent to drive I simply recommend clicking on Google Maps for customized directions from your Vancouver hotel or Vancouver hostel.

The drive should take between 10 and 20 minutes from most Vancouver locations.

Related: How Many Days Do I Need to Spend in Vancouver?

Science World Vancouver Parking

Unbfortunately, there is no free parking at Science World Vancouver – all of the street parking is metered or for residents only.

If you choose to drive though, I recommend the Impark lot #610 that provides parking for up to 200 vehicles.

Be sure to remember your stall number as the lot operates on a pay-by-stall system.

Rates

  • $4.25 for 1 hour
  • $8.50 for 2 hours
  • $13.00 for 4 hours
  • $14.50 for early bird from 9 am to 6 pm
  • $9.00 for a flat rate from 5 pm to 2 am

*Note that the machines do not take cash.

The Seawall

If you’re located in downtown or Kitsilano you’re likely located no more then 10-15 minutes walk from the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path. Equal parts transportation corridor and outdoor recreational hub, the Seawall is the perfect way to explore the city on a beautiful Summer day.

Like many of the city’s attractions, Science World just happens to be located right along this pathway.

So if you’d like to sneak in a little exercise you can visit on foot or via bicycle. To rent yourself a bike click on the button below.

Science World’s OMNIMAX Theatre

Update: (08-20-22): The OMNIMAX Theater still has not re-opened after the pandemic closing. I’ll add more info here as it comes.

I always loved this as a kid: watching the immersive and educational films on the world’s largest OMNIMAX dome screen.

At over 5 stories high and 27 meters in diameter, the screen takes up the entirety of Science World’s iconic golf ball shaped structure.

The sensational wrap-around sound system and the Snacklab concession stand make this a family entertainment superpower!

There are typically 2-3 different showings daily (you’ll have to pay an extra $6.50 per ticket to see them).

Each touches on different educational topics like science, wildlife, and the environment.

Science World After Dark

Science World After Dark

If you’d prefer an adult-only atmosphere then we’ve got you covered.

Science World After Dark allows adults aged 19+ to immerse themselves in a regular visit but with adult beverages, food, music, and more.

This runs just once a month from 7:00 to 10:00 pm.

Visits include a film in the OMNIMAX theatre, the ability to explore 6 permanent galleries, and experience live science shows.

Looking for the schedule? Check out their After Dark page.

Tips for Visiting Science World Vancouver

Visit outside of peak hours

Since it can get quite busy you should try to visit on a weekday.

Barring that mornings tend to be less crowded so make an effort to visit around the 10:00am opening time.

Allocate 2-3 hours for your visit

If you hope to hit every exhibit in sight we’d recommend budgeting at least 2-3 hours.

If your kids are especially curious or you plan on visiting the OMNIMAX theatre, then count on allocating a half-day.

Take public transit

Science World is easily accessible via the nearby Main Street-Science World Station on the Expo Line of the Skytrain.

This can save you the headache of navigating the busy downtown streets and save on the cost of parking.

Visit via False Creek

If the weather is nice, we’d recommend visiting via the Sea Wall, or a False Creek Ferry.

This quintessential Vancouver boat ride is fun for the whole family, and an  experience in its own right.

Visit on a rainy day

This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver when it rains, period. It is fun, educational, and almost entirely indoors!

And there will probably be smaller crowds.

6) Don’t forget about the travelling exhibits

Keep an eye on Science World website.

If you none of the galleries mentioned in this article tickled your fancy, there is always new exhibits coming through town.

Events at Science World Vancouver

three women inside science world checking upcoming events
Courtesy: Science World Photos

From captivating lectures to interactive workshops and exhilarating exhibitions, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Here are the events in Science World this 2024.

  • February 23: Change Reaction Live: Teen Climate Cafe
  • March 5: Community Conversations
  • March 6: Nobel Prize Lectures
  • March 8: Girls and STEAM: Career Path Adventures on International Women’s Day
  • March 21: Science World After Dark
  • March 26: Change Reaction Live: Teen Career Networking
  • April 5: Change Reaction Live: Teen Trivia
  • April 11: Science of Cocktails
  • April 13: Girls and STEAM Studio
  • June 14: Skwachàys Artists Exhibition

Still looking for more activities? Check Vancouver events in April.

Science World Visit FAQ

Where is Science World located?

Science World is located at 1455 Quebec Street at the eastern edge of False Creek near downtown Vancouver.

Is Science World for adults?

Science World is for adults, including interactive displays, educational presentations, and special events. It provides engaging and informative experiences for visitors of all ages.

What time is TELUS World of Science open?

TELUS World of Science is open from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm from Monday to Sunday.

How much is TELUS World of Science?

Admission to Telus World of Science costs $34.75 for adults, $31.50 for seniors, students and youth, and $27.00 for children.

How much is parking at Science World?

Parking at Science World costs $4.25 per hour, $13 for 4 hours, $16.50 all day or $9 overnight.

How long do you spend at Science World Vancouver?

Visitors typically spend at Science World Vancouver anywhere from 2 to 4 hours exploring the exhibits, attending shows, and participating in activities.

What do you do at Science World Vancouver?

At Science World Vancouver, you can explore interactive exhibits, watch immersive science shows, participate in hands-on activities, attend educational programs, and enjoy special events, providing engaging and educational experiences for all ages.

Is Science World worth a visit?

Yes, Science World is worth a visit for its interactive exhibits, immersive shows, hands-on activities, educational programs, and special events, offering engaging experiences for individuals and families alike.

Can I bring food into Science World?

Yes, you can bring food into Scient World in designated areas such as the outdoor picnic area or café seating. However, certain restrictions may apply, and visitors are encouraged to check the venue’s policies beforehand.

Ready for Your Science World Admission?

That’s the extent of my information on Science World, but allow me to offer you a commitment.

I’m dedicated to addressing every Vancouver question, catering to both residents and tourists alike. If you’re still uncertain about anything, feel free to leave a comment below.

We’re Vancouver Planner, and we’re here to assist with all your queries.

Julian

I've used online guides on five continents to find the world's greatest travel spots and this is my chance to give back - with insider info on my home, the mighty Vancouver BC!

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