About
BRINGING THE PHYSICAL AND NATURAL WORLD OF THE NORTH TO YOUR FINGERTIPS
The Discovery Center is Alaska’s hands-on science discovery center, a place where visitors of all ages can explore art, history and science of the Northern regions through play.
The 9,000-square-foot center features more than 80 exhibits, including simulated earthquakes and auroras, tidal pools, and interactive exhibits that blend technology, art and innovation. All of these and more are presented in six distinct areas:
KINETIC SPACE
Explore the world of physics, including the principles of energy, force and motion.
BUBBLE SPACE
A fun and interactive exhibit that uses bubbles of all shapes and sizes to demonstrate surface tension, shape and light reflection.
TOTE KIDSPACE
A gallery specifically designed for infants and children ages 5 and under where all exhibits offer safe interaction. Kids and their parents can explore the worlds of art, history and science through hands-on play, introducing the wonder of scientific learning through imagination and curiosity.
EARTH AND LIFE SCIENCE
Learn the difference between geology and geography and find out why zoology has nothing to do with zoos.
THOMAS PLANETARIUM
Take trips through the solar system to explore the night sky. Click here to read more.
SMITHSONIAN SPARK!LAB
The Smithsonian’s Spark!Lab is a hands-on creative lab that uses engaging activities to help kids and families learn about the history and process of invention.
Visitors spark critical thinking skills through games, conduct science experiments, explore inventors' notebooks, and invent. Activities include making a hydroponic garden, testing electric circuits, creating a flying gyroscope, and more.
Developed by the Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation at the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of American History, Spark!Lab at the Anchorage Museum is one of only a few Spark!Labs outside Washington, D.C. It is made possible through the support of the Ford Motor Company Fund.
