This past Sunday, turned into a rainy, dreary day.  We’d already spend a bunch of time outdoors that morning.  I’d logged 12 running miles in preparation for my upcoming half marathon, while Slaed and the kids trekked around Seward Park.  After nap time, the family was in need of a restful adventure.  Does that seem possible…or even make sense?

I seemed to think so, and quickly planned a visit to our Pacific Science Center.  We are so grateful for our science center membership.  Our kids, now 8 years and nearly 5 years, cheer when we tell them we are going, and never seem to tire of the exhibits.

In addition to sharing this particular adventure to the Pacific Science Center, I thought I’d share why we love the place so much! Just want to to see what we were up to during our visit? Scroll down to watch our YouTube video!

Seattle’s Pacific Science Center

1 hour or All Day

Whether we have just an hour to spend or an entire day, I love that there is no pressure to get our money’s worth.  I know we can (and will) always return another day.  If we just feel like visiting the butterflies and warming up on a cold, rainy day, we can, without worrying about seeing it all.

Live Science Shows

We’ve seen snake shows, learned about animal adaptation, and most recently experienced combustion, and I’ve always been impressed with how engaging the staff is for both children and adults.

IMAX Documentaries

Whenever we are headed to the science center, we check to see if there is an IMAX documentary showing that corresponds well with our visit. I love that they are not as long as a full length movie, but just as exciting, and MORE educational and inspirational.  Most recently, we got to see Hidden Pacific.  This documentary is all about uninhabited small islands in the Pacific Ocean, the beauty, and the issues that they face. A powerful movie that made me rethink our dependency on plastic.

Planetarium

Along the same lines as the live science shows, the planetarium within the science center also has regularly scheduled shows (included with admission, but sign-up/extra ticket required).  We must be lacking in the star department being cloudy city dwellers because I feel like these shows are so special.  Check the schedule when you arrive, as they have some age group specific options.

Tropical Butterfly House

Enjoying nature in lovely 80 degree temperatures while it’s rainy and cold outside.  Doesn’t that sound like a dream come true? That’s what what I love about the Pacific Science Center’s Tropical Butterfly House!

Other Science Centers

So many science centers across the country have reciprocal relationships with the Pacific Science Center.  We’ve been able to explore Discovery Place Science in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, and a few others for “free” thanks to our membership!

Seattle Rainy Day Trip: Pacific Science Center Video

Play our video below to see our rainy day adventure at the Pacific Science Center.  Highlights included the Hidden Pacific documentary, watching a butterfly release, and learning all about combustion in a live science show.

You can also visit our YouTube channel to view our Seattle Rainy Trips, Pacific Science Center edition as well as many other recent adventures, travels, and projects!

Have you been to the Pacific Science Center? Have a favorite science center around the world? Share your experiences with us in the comments! Have an idea for a rainy day trip? Let’s chat!

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