Starting this month, escape to indoor and outdoor summer entertainment that keeps the family learning and engaged at the Cox Science Center & Aquarium.
From science fiction exhibits to honoring local heroes, the science center is your ticket to summer fun.
“As a parent, I know the never-ending wheel of keeping kids amused and entertained — especially during the summer,” Cox Science Center President & CEO Kate Arrizza said. “Fortunately, our science center’s rotating exhibits and endless activities keeps things fresh for both parents and kids alike.”
Transport yourself into the future with the “Science Fiction, Science Future” exhibit, which opened May 14. Guests will develop a deeper understanding of how science fiction ideas and concepts might become the science reality of tomorrow.
Visitors will have the opportunity to try hands-on and full-body experiences as “Science Fiction, Science Future” incorporates robots, invisibility, mind control, holograms and augmented reality. This exhibit brings to life innovations and inventions that were once considered possible only in film and literature. A stunning visual environment, featuring exhibits that challenge both the mind and body, “Science Fiction, Science Future” sets the stage for a unique journey of science exploration, curiosity and discovery. The exhibit will be open until Sept. 24. Learn more at www.coxsciencecenter.org/science-fiction.
On Saturday, May 20, the Cox Science Center will once again host the Palm Beach Mini Maker Faire in its eighth year, which is dubbed as “the greatest show and tell on Earth.” Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the center will show off its line-up of engineers, artists, scientists and crafters for a day celebrating invention, creativity and resourcefulness. Stroll around to find vendors that make handcrafted soap, robotic-controlled cars or 3D-printed pottery, with nearby food trucks, including Gimme Grillin’, Cool and Creamy Ice Cream, and Tacos Veracruz.
On Saturday, June 3, visitors can dive into the world of corals during the Coral Carnaval conservation event. In partnership with the Reef Institute, guests can participate in presentations from coral experts, get hands-on with coral-themed crafts, and enjoy various vendors, food trucks and live musical entertainment between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. A schedule of shows will also be offered in the planetarium, including Kaluoka’hina: The Enchanted Reef, Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure and Dynamic Earth, to name a few. Vendors and sponsors are still being accepted for this event at www.coxsciencecenter.org/coral-carnaval.
On Saturday, June 17, show some local love by participating in Hometown Hero Appreciation Day. Between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., veterans, active-duty military, first responders, Gold Star families and up to four guests can receive free admission at the center an hour before doors open to the general public. Heroes, their families and the public can enjoy special activities, such as military vehicle demonstrations, a meet-and-greet with local armed forces, as well as live science demonstrations and military ceremonies. To redeem your tickets, register online at www.coxsciencecenter.org/heroes and bring your military or employee ID.
The Cox Science Center & Aquarium’s current indoor/outdoor venue features more than 100 hands-on educational exhibits, a 10,000-gallon fresh and saltwater aquarium, digital planetarium, the pre-K focused “Discovery Center,” an 18-hole conservation-themed mini-golf course and quarter-mile-long outdoor science trail.
One of its celebrated displays includes “Journey Through the Human Brain,” a permanent exhibit that features the most advanced neuroscience research in the world. The Cox Amphitheater hosts daily live science shows, seasonal laser shows and special event programming. The center took on a new name at the end of 2021 with a $20 million gift from Palm Beachers Howard and Wendy Cox, launching a transformative capital expansion campaign. Shovels will be going in the ground late summer 2023 with a target completion date of 2026. To learn more, visit www.coxsciencecenter.org/support-us.
The center is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach. Member admission for children ages three to 12 is free and $13.95 for adults. General admission for adults is $20.95, $16.95 for kids ages 3 to 12 and $18.95 for seniors age 60 and older. For more information about summertime activities, visit www.coxsciencecenter.org.
