Connecticut Science Center Tours

Connecticut Science Center which includes interior views as well as children
Connecticut Science Center showing interior views as well as a small group of people
Connecticut Science Center showing interior views
Connecticut Science Center featuring outdoor art and a park
Connecticut Science Center featuring a garden


Leave your textbooks at home and learn about science by playing, exploring and inventing your way through this interactive science center in Hartford.

The Connecticut Science Center is a fairly new addition to Hartford’s cultural scene. Have fun learning about science from over 150 interactive exhibits, an eye-popping 3-D movie theater and frequent special events.

If you have ever wanted to hear light or feel sound, visit Sight and Sound. Create music using lasers, cutting-edge software and your own body movements. Discover the universe and beyond in Exploring Space. Buckle into your flight chair and navigate a black hole, explore a supernova and investigate the moon’s craters.

Add a little friendly competition to your day at Forces in Motion. In this exhibit you will design a motion-related invention and test it against other visitors’ creations. See how gravity works in the Drop Zone, where objects fall in slow motion.

Kidspace is appealing for the science center’s youngest visitors. Between playing with the magnetic ball wall and the cascading water center, children won’t even realize that they’re learning important scientific concepts.

Other exhibits explore subjects from sports to the environment to medicine. Learn how to use scientific knowledge to take better care of your body. Explore the ecosystem of the Connecticut River. Devise your own invention and show it off.

Watching a movie takes on a whole new dimension in the 3-D movie theater. Settle back and enjoy one of the 45-minute films. Several different movies are shown throughout the day.

The science center also hosts temporary shows in the Traveling Exhibit Gallery. Just like the permanent attractions, these are sure to grab your attention. Grossology, a recent temporary exhibit, explored how the body’s grosser functions are actually vital processes to keep you healthy.

If you get hungry, have lunch at the sandwich shop on the first floor or bring your own picnic to eat at one of the tables.

The Connecticut Science Center is open every day except Mondays and major holidays. Buy a general admission ticket or a combo that also allows you to see one movie in the theater. There is ample parking nearby. The city’s free Star Shuttle stops here.

Plan a trip to see Connecticut Science Center

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Super 8 by Wyndham Cromwell/Middletown
Holiday Inn Express Vernon - Manchester by IHG
The Goodwin Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Connecticut Science Center

The Capitol Hotel

The Capitol Hotel

3 out of 5
440 Asylum St, Hartford, CT
The Capitol Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites Hartford/East Hartford

Hampton Inn & Suites Hartford/East Hartford

2.5 out of 5
351 Pitkin Steet, East Hartford, CT
Hampton Inn & Suites Hartford/East Hartford
The Goodwin Hotel

The Goodwin Hotel

3.5 out of 5
1 Haynes St, Hartford, CT
The Goodwin Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown

DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown

4 out of 5
315 Trumbull St, Hartford, CT
DoubleTree by Hilton Hartford Downtown
Candlewood Suites Hartford Downtown by IHG

Candlewood Suites Hartford Downtown by IHG

2.5 out of 5
370 Market Street, Hartford, CT
Candlewood Suites Hartford Downtown by IHG
Economy Inn

Economy Inn

2.5 out of 5
490 Main Street, East Hartford, CT
Economy Inn
Super 8 by Wyndham Hartford

Super 8 by Wyndham Hartford

2 out of 5
57 W Service Road, Hartford, CT
Super 8 by Wyndham Hartford
Best Western Hartford Hotel & Suites

Best Western Hartford Hotel & Suites

2.5 out of 5
185 Brainard Rd, Hartford, CT
Best Western Hartford Hotel & Suites
Comfort Inn & Suites East Hartford - Hartford

Comfort Inn & Suites East Hartford - Hartford

2.5 out of 5
333 Roberts Street, East Hartford, CT
Comfort Inn & Suites East Hartford - Hartford
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Connecticut Science Center

At the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford, you can enjoy a range of activities focused on scientific discovery and fun. Explore engaging exhibits, participate in campus tours, and make the most of your first hour with interactive experiences. Additionally, the area offers vibrant theater performances, live music, and exciting festivals to enhance your visit.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is the Hartford Downtown Farmers Market, just 0.2 miles away, offering a vibrant local atmosphere. Cabela's, located 3 miles away, is perfect for outdoor gear. If you're up for a drive, Westfarms Mall, 6 miles away, features a variety of family-friendly shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

The XL Center, located 0.5 miles from the Connecticut Science Center, offers an energetic atmosphere with thrilling sports events. For a dose of entertainment, visit Webster Theater, 2 miles away, showcasing live music. Colt Park, 0.9 miles away, provides a peaceful retreat for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Adventure

Explore the Shade Swamp Sanctuary, an 11-mile hiking trail offering beautiful outdoor scenery and adventure vibes. For a different thrill, visit the Assaiante Tennis Center, located 2 miles away, or enjoy a game at the Newington Tennis Center, situated 5 miles from the Science Center.

Nightlife

In Hartford, Xfinity Theatre offers a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of culture and entertainment, just a mile from the Connecticut Science Center. For an adventurous night, head to Nomads Adventure Quest, located five miles away. Cinestudio, two miles away, provides a romantic cinema experience perfect for families.

Find the best attractions near Connecticut Science Center

While visiting the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford, immerse yourself in the rich culture and outdoor experiences nearby. Explore urban parks for a breath of fresh air, historic colleges for a taste of education, and charming historic houses that tell the story of the area. Don't miss the science center itself, where interactive exhibits await, and consider using the Connecticut Science Center guide to enhance your visit.

  • Connecticut Convention Center: Located only 0.2 miles from the Connecticut Science Center, this venue buzzes with business energy, hosting conferences and exhibitions. Its modern architecture and spacious layout make it an ideal spot for networking and professional events.
  • Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts: A 0.6-mile walk will take you to this cultural gem, where you can experience a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to classical concerts, all set in a beautifully designed historic venue that celebrates the arts.
  • Bushnell Park: Also 0.6 miles away, this urban park offers a family-friendly escape with lush greenery, walking paths, and playgrounds. Enjoy outdoor activities or a leisurely stroll amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Best time to go to Connecticut Science Center

Visitor numbers around Connecticut Science Center is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Connecticut Science Center is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February29.7°F (-1.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March37.4°F (3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June67.5°F (19.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.3°F (22.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September65.3°F (18.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December34.5°F (1.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Connecticut Science Center

To save money on your visit to the Connecticut Science Center, plan your trip between December and February when hotel prices are lower, especially on Mondays. Use Expedia to search for budget-friendly accommodations and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and earn you OneKeyCash for future stays. For public transport, check local shuttle services for affordable options. Don't forget to explore free activities in Hartford to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Connecticut Science Center are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Connecticut Science Center is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Connecticut Science Center is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Connecticut Science Center with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.