McWane Science Center, Birmingham AL: Guide with ticket prices, parking and planning tips

The McWane Science Center in Birmingham, Alabama, blends interactive science exhibits and an immersive IMAX® Dome Theater. This guide will help first-time visitors with exact ticket prices, parking options, opening hours, accessibility, and best strategies for your visit.

History and overview of McWane Science Center

The McWane Science Center opened in downtown Birmingham in 1998, repurposing part of the old Loveman’s department store building. It now spans four floors of interactive “Adventure Halls” featuring hands-on exhibits in physics, biology, environmental science, and more. There is also an aquarium section, a dinosaur exhibit, and rotating special exhibits.

One of the center’s highlights is its IMAX® Dome Theater, which projects documentaries and special films on a 5-story tilted dome using advanced laser projection and a 12-channel sound system. This unique theater draws visitors wanting both science and cinematic spectacle.

The museum emphasizes accessibility, dynamic programming, and educational experiences. Staff conduct science demonstrations, host themed events, and rotate displays to appeal to children, families, and casual visitors alike.

The McWane Science Center combines entertainment with learning, making it a top destination in Birmingham for families – but curious adults will get something outside of it too.

How to get to McWane Science Center and parking

McWane is located at 200 19th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203. It sits in the heart of the downtown museum and civic district. Public transit, downtown shuttles, taxis or ride-share services serve the area.

For drivers, McWane has its own parking deck on 2nd Avenue North (entrance from 2nd Ave). Non-members pay $5.00 to exit the deck, with payment via debit/credit or tokens purchased at the ticket counter. The deck has a height limit of 6′8″. Members enjoy free parking (when spaces are available).

Street parking is also available around the museum. Metered street parking applies with 2-hour limits; street parking is free on Saturdays, Sundays, and federal or state holidays.

Buses unload on 2nd Avenue North near the entrance; overflow bus parking may be directed to nearby lots with shuttle service.

Opening hours and exact ticket prices

The McWane Science Center is closed on Monday and Tuesday. It opens:
* Wednesday to Friday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
* Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
* Sunday: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm

The Bean Sprouts Café and the museum shop have slightly shorter hours, typically opening when the museum opens and closing around 3:00 pm or 5:00 pm depending on the day.

Ticket prices (Adventure Halls and IMAX combos, correct as of October 2025):

• Adult (13-64): $19.95 for general admission; combo with IMAX documentary: $24.95
• Child (2-12): $15.95 for general; combo: $19.95
• Senior (65+): $18.95 general; combo: $23.95
• Children under 2: free
• IMAX documentary only (no museum): Adults $9.95; kids & seniors $8.95

Group rates are available for parties of 15 or more: e.g. Adventure Halls adult group rate $14.00.

Best time to visit and how long your visit takes

The museum is busiest mid-day and weekend afternoons. To avoid crowds, try arriving close to opening (9:00 am) on Wednesday through Friday, or 10:00 am on Saturdays. Late afternoon visits are quieter but may feel rushed due to museum closure times.

Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring four floors of hands-on exhibits, the aquarium, dinosaur hall, and catching an IMAX documentary. If you skip the film or move more quickly, 1.5 to 2 hours may suffice. Many visitors combine with downtown stops afterward.

Accessibility and visitor experience

McWane is committed to accessibility. It is a Sensory Inclusive organization and offers sensory bags, quiet rooms, and accommodations for visitors with sensory processing needs.

Wheelchair access is provided throughout most areas. Elevators connect floors. Accessible restrooms and family restrooms are available. Photography without flash is allowed in most galleries; tripods may be limited. Loose bags may be subject to security checks.

The IMAX® Dome Theater seats 250 under a 79-foot-diameter dome; the documentary films shown are included in combo tickets.

Nearby attractions to combine with McWane

McWane is in the heart of downtown Birmingham. After your visit, you can walk to the Birmingham Museum of Art, Civil Rights Institute, 16th Street Baptist Church, and Kelly Ingram Park. The Pizitz Food Hall is steps away for lunch or snacks. You can also visit the Alabama Theatre or explore the Birmingham Botanical Gardens with a short drive.

Tips for a smoother visit

• Purchase tickets online in advance to secure your desired time slot and avoid ticket lines.
• Bring your membership if you have one—members receive free parking and free or discounted admission.
• Arrive early to park in the deck before it fills.
• Check the schedule for daily science demonstrations and IMAX showtimes when you arrive at the museum’s lobby center display.
• If you want to skip the IMAX or don’t like dome theaters, you can visit the museum halls first then return later for the film if time allows.

Frequently asked questions about McWane Science Center