Arizona Science Center

600 East Washington Street
Phoenix AZ 85004

Phone: 602-716-2000
Fax: 602-716-2099

---

Description:
Mission Statement

The mission of the Arizona Science Center is to inspire, educate, and entertain people about science.

History

Members of the Junior League of Phoenix opened a small "pilot" science center called the Arizona Museum of Science and Technology in 1984. Offering educational opportunities that complement the schools, this facility provided "hands-on" science learning to more than 750,000 children and adults during its 13-year history.

In 1988, voters approved a bond that earmarked $30.5 million for a new, larger science center, reconfirming the community's commitment to, and interest in, informal science education. Construction of a 120,000 square foot facility began in mid-1994.

Before concrete for the new building was poured, the Arizona Science Center, with the assistance of a distinguished Education Advisory Committee that included representatives from the State's universities, school systems, businesses, and community groups, performed a needs assessment for science learning in Arizona. The findings were incorporated into the selection of exhibits, year-one programmatic offerings, and strategies to reach key segments of the public: youth, adolescents, parents, and teachers.

After a capital campaign that raised $19.6 million, the new Arizona Science Center, opened to the public in April 1997. A new, voter-approved expansion opened in October 2004, including additional classroom and gallery space. Current facilities include more than 40,000 square-feet of gallery space, containing more than 300 hands-on exhibits; the giant-screen Irene P. Flinn Theater seating 285; the modern, computerized Dorrance Planetarium seating 200; a suite of multimedia classrooms; amenities including a gift shop, food service, and lunchroom; and support facilities.