The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center in Mobile, Alabama, is one of the Southeast's premier hands-on science museums that the entire family will love.
Located in downtown Mobile, the Exploreum Science Center features interactive STEAM exhibits, a state-of-the-art digital dome theater, and special exhibitions like the Tiny Titans dinosaur experience.
Whether you're visiting Mobile for the day or looking for the perfect rainy-day activity, Gulf Coast Exploreum offers hours of educational fun for all ages.
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What to Expect at Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center
The Gulf Coast Exploreum is the perfect family friendly attraction in Mobile, Alabama. The hands on exhibits are fun for both kids and adults.
I will say seeing some of the things we grew up with in a museum display of what used to be computer equipment made me pause for a moment. It is still shocking to think that tools we used and were excited about are now museum displays.
I was a science nerd kid and would have geeked out visiting the Exploreum as a kid. I could have spent hours with the Mobile science center hands on exhibits, walking through the different areas, and watching the science lab shows.
The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center spans multiple floors of exhibits. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring, or make it a half-day adventure if you want to catch a Digital Dome show and see all the Science Squad demos
Current Exhibits at the Exploreum Mobile
The Gulf Coast Exploreum features several permanent exhibits including the Hands on Hall, Wharf of Wonder for ages 0-5, and the ArcelorMittal Calvert Curiosity Factory. Special exhibitions rotate throughout the year-current and upcoming exhibits are announced on the Exploreum's website and social media.
Tiny Titans: Hatching the Past (August 2025 - extended to August 1, 2026)
The Tiny Titans exhibit is great for all ages. Dinosaur enthusiasts will love seeing fossilized dinosaur bones, authentic dinosaur nests, paleaontology activities, world class artwork, a dinosaur petting zoo, jurassic playland, dino dig pits, and a build-a-skeleton hands on exhibit to name a few.
Explore the science behind dinosaurs and how paleontologists uncover and study dinosaurs.
This exhibit is fascinating for adults and kids! There is so much amazing information about baby dinosaurs.
Hands on Hall
The Hands on Hall is where kids can dive into hands-on STEAM activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) all rolled into one interactive space. We loved watching the kids work through different challenges and experiments, either on their own or teaming up with other young scientists.
Inside the gallery, you'll find the Science Squad Headquarters, a lab space where big bang science experiments happen! The demos focus on physics and chemistry, and they're fascinating to watch. If your kids love experimenting and getting hands-on with science, this is the Mobile science center spot they'll want to spend the most time in.
Wharf of Wonder
The Wharf of Wonder is designed specifically for your littlest explorers ages 0-5. This hands-on area is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who are just starting to discover the world around them.
The exhibit features activities that encourage dramatic play, tactile exploration, and interaction with other kids. If you're visiting with young children, this is where they can safely explore and learn at their own pace while you relax knowing it's designed just for them.
ArcelorMittal Calvert Curiosity Factory
The ArcelorMittal Calvert Curiosity Factory is one of the newer additions to the Exploreum, and it's packed with both classic favorites and cutting-edge technology. Kids can build on the Lego wall, experiment with parachute tubes, and test out the laser and earthquake tables.
Inside the Curiosity Factory, you'll find the ExploreTec STEM Lab, featuring 15 computer stations, 3D printers, robotics, and drones. This lab gives kids hands-on experience with the tech skills they'll need for future careers in engineering and technology. Note that the STEM Lab is only available through special bookings, but the Curiosity Factory itself is part of the permanent exhibits you can explore during your visit.
Science Squad Demos
Make sure to check the schedule for Science Squad Demos during your visit! These live demonstrations happen throughout the day at different times and locations in the science center. The Science Squad performs engaging experiments like Fossil Prints, Nature Pavilion explorations, the explosive Exploding Can demo, the mesmerizing Green Flame experiment, and Fossil Discovery activities. These demos are entertaining and educational-perfect for keeping kids engaged and excited about science!
PCI Digital Dome Theater (formerly IMAX)
The PCI Digital Dome is a larger than life cinema experience. The films shown rotate frequently so there is always a reason to go back and experience a new show.
Adults 21+ make sure to keep an eye out for Exploreum After Hours events. They feature movie nights, scavenger hunts, raffles, costume contests, trivia, and more fun.
Galileo: The Science of Antiquity (January 27 - May 23, 2026)
This exciting new touring exhibition celebrates Galileo Galilei's groundbreaking contributions to science, astronomy, and physics. The Galileo exhibit showcases how his fearless work shaped our modern understanding of the universe and paved the way for space exploration-even influencing humanity's journey to the moon!
The exhibit features hands-on interactive experiments that bring STEAM learning to life, focusing on physics, geometry, mathematics, and astronomy. Whether your kids are space enthusiasts or budding scientists, they'll love discovering how Galileo's pioneering work changed the world. This is a limited-time exhibit, so don't miss it during your visit to the Exploreum!
Why Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center is Worth Visiting
- One of the best family friendly things to do in Mobile
- Great rainy day activity
- Close to the Amtrak Station and Mobile Cruise Port
- Hands on Activities kids will love
- Educational without being overwhelming
- PCI Digital Dome Theater with rotating films
- Perfect for all ages from toddlers to adults
Exploreum Tips & FAQs
Is there an IMAX theater at the Exploreum? Yes, It is now called the PCI Digital Dome Theater after going through a major update. The theater features a laser-illuminated system that includes ultra-high 6k resolution, and an upgrade audio system that delivers a lifelike and immersive sound experience.Theater tickets are separate from general admission/included in combo packages, check website for pricing.
How long should I plan for my visit? If your family loves science experiments, hands on activities, and lots of places to explore I would plan a minimum of a few hours if not at least half a day to enjoy the Exploreum.
Is the Exploreum good for toddlers? Yes! The Wharf of Wonder is designed for kids ages 0-5 to enjoy! The entire area is set up for young explorers to be hands on.
Can you bring food into the Exploreum? No outside food, beverages or coolers are allowed in the Exploreum.
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Parking
Admission & Tickets - Pricing varies for general admission, IMAX theater, and combination packages. Visit the Exploreum website or call 251-208-6893 for current ticket prices and to book online.
Address - 65 Government St. Mobile, AL 36602
Phone - 251-208-6893
Hours - Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm. Closed Sunday & Monday
The Exploreum closes for the following holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, Joe Cain Day (Sunday before Mardi Gras), Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday and Easter Sunday.
Call 251-208-6893 to confirm hours before your visit.
Accessibility - There is an elevator between floors and space between exhibits to maneuver around.
Plus Size Seating - There are stools and places to sit spread throughout the exhibits
Dress Code/Suggestions - Casual
Pets - Pets are not allowed in the science center
Parking - There is street parking around the corner from the entrance to the Mobile Science Center next to Mardi Gras Park
The Mobile Area Multi Attraction Pass includes the National Maritime Museum along with Bellingrath Gardens, Bragg-Mitchell Museum, Dauphin Island Aquarium, Conde Charlotte Museum, Historic Blakely State Park, Historic Oakleigh House, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, and more!
Mobile Attractions Near the Exploreum
Perdido Queen Boat Tour - Take a boat tour and see the Port of Mobile in action and the city from the water. Book HERE
Maritime Museum of the Gulf - Explore 80+ interactive maritime exhibits in this unique ship-shaped museum just steps from the Perdido Queen dock.
Mobile History Museum - is filled with historical displays and interesting information on the history of Mobile and the surrounding areas.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Mobile - best ways to celebrate Mobile Mardi Gras! The top things to do, food specials, and so much more.
Where to Eat Near the Exploreum
New Restaurants in Mobile - Don't miss all of the new restaurants in Mobile plus things to do!
Dropout Bakery - Oh my goodness the fresh baked pastries and treats are so good!
Nova Espresso - Great Mobile Coffee shop located near downtown Mobile, Alabama. The coffee shop has a relaxed vibe and great drinks.
Mobile Tours
3 Day Mobile City Attraction Pass - Visit some of the top attractions in Mobile with this great attraction pass. Find out more here
USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park - pre-purchase your entrance tickets to the USS Alabama here
Downtown Mobile Food Tour- Join an amazing food tour of Mobile's LoDa neighborhood with stops at some truly fantastic local restaurants. Book your tour here
Mobile Ghost Tour - An expert local guide will take you through the historic district of Mobile learning about the spine-chilling stories of spirits and the cities past. Book your tour here
Mobile Smartphone guided walking tour - Learn more about the historic of Mobile and the iconic attractions of downtown Mobile from this great walking tour app you can do at your own pace. Download the tour here
Mobile Hotels and Lodging
If you are visiting and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations.
The Battle House Hotel - The historic Battle House Hotel offer luxurious comfort in the heart of Downtown Mobile. Book your hotel stay here
Renaissance Mobile Riverview - Gorgeous hotel with views of the Mobile River and downtown. Book your stay here
Fort Conde Inn - Great luxury boutique hotel located close to the Mobile cruise terminal and Fort Conde historic area. Book your hotel stay here
The Admiral - Located in Downtown Mobile's historic district the Admiral is gorgeous! Filled with art, an epic steakhouse and, gorgeous rooms. Book your stay here.
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations, including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Fort Morgan, Foley, Mobile, Bayou La Batre, Alabama, and so many more!
We also have articles on the Emerald Coast of Florida, including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Panama City Beach, Perdido Key, Pensacola, and more.
Keep an eye out for articles on the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Florida!
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