The Pacific Science Center is science museum located on the south side of the Seattle Center campus in Seattle, Washington. This guide provides essential information on opening hours, ticket prices, transport, parking, and accessibility to assist with trip planning.
Entrance to the Pacific Science Center is included in the Seattle CityPass, which can save you a lot of money if visiting several Seattle attractions.
Updated March 2026: This guide reflects the permanent closure of the legacy animatronic dinosaur exhibit in late 2025 and current admission prices.
Pacific Science Center quick facts
| Feature | Details |
| Opening hours | Wednesday–Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00 |
| Ticket prices | Adults (18–64): From $22.95; Youth (3–17): $19.95 |
| Address | 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 |
| Nearest transport | Seattle Center Monorail (Westlake Station) |
| Time needed | 3 to 4 hours |
Pacific Science Center opening hours
The Pacific Science Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. The public courtyard remains open during these operational hours, though some evening events or laser shows may extend access to specific areas until 23:00.
The centre is typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, except for select school holidays.
Pacific Science Center ticket prices
The Pacific Science Center uses what’s euphemistically known as dynamic pricing. Which basically means the price goes up when more people want to get in.
However, for tickets booked online, general admission for adults starts at $22.95 (Washington residents) or $26.95 (everyone else). For children (3 to 17), prices start at $19.95. At peak times, you can add about four dollars on to these rates.
Opening hours and ticket prices were checked on the official website and last updated in March 2026.
Why book a Seattle CityPASS?
- 🗼 Space Needle included: Enjoy timed entry to Seattle’s most recognisable landmark, with panoramic views over Elliott Bay and Mount Rainier on clear days.
- 🐠 Seattle Aquarium admission: Get up close to local marine life, including sea otters, harbour seals and colourful tide-pool species.
- 🎨 Choose three more attractions: Pick from favourites such as Chihuly Garden and Glass, Museum of Pop Culture, Argosy Cruises harbour tour, Woodland Park Zoo or Pacific Science Center.
- 📱 Mobile pass with flexible sightseeing: Your CityPASS is delivered digitally and stays valid for nine consecutive days once activated.
- 💰 Save on entry fees: Bundled pricing offers significant savings compared with buying tickets separately, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
The Pacific Science Center is included in the Seattle CityPASS and Seattle C3 schemes. These passes also offer admission to other nearby attractions, including the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).
How to get to Pacific Science Center
The most direct public transport route is the Seattle Center Monorail, which travels between Westlake Center and Seattle Center in approximately 90 seconds. Westlake Center is a central hub accessible via the Link Light Rail and numerous regional bus routes.
Several King County Metro bus lines stop directly near the entrance, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 13, 24, and the D Line. Visitors who purchase tickets 24 hours in advance may be eligible for a transit credit through the centre’s partnership with King County Metro.
Parking at Pacific Science Center
The nearest parking facility is the Claypool Memorial Garage, located at the corner of Sue Bird Court and Denny Way. Visitors should note that this garage is managed independently and the elevator may have limited service; alternative parking is available at the 1st Ave N Garage and the 5th Ave N Garage.
Drop-off and pick-up for passengers with mobility requirements are located along Sue Bird Court between the science centre and the Seattle Children’s Theatre. Pre-booking parking through apps like SpotHero is recommended during peak periods or events at the nearby Climate Pledge Arena.
How long to spend at Pacific Science Center
A typical visit to the Pacific Science Center lasts between three and four hours. This duration allows sufficient time to view the permanent galleries and attend one timed event, such as a planetarium show or a daytime laser programme.
Visitors planning to watch a feature-length IMAX film or multiple live demonstrations should allow for a full day. The centre permits re-entry on the same day with a valid ticket or hand stamp.
Accessibility at Pacific Science Center
The entire campus is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators connecting the various levels and theatres. Complimentary wheelchairs are available at the Main Entry Information Desk on a first-come, first-served basis with a valid ID deposit.
The centre provides sensory kits containing noise-cancelling headphones and fidget tools, and a dedicated Sensory Lounge is located in the Exhibits East gallery for guests needing a quiet space. Aides accompanying visitors with disabilities receive complimentary admission.
What to see at Pacific Science Center
The Tropical Butterfly House is a permanent, climate-controlled exhibit housing hundreds of butterflies and tropical plants. It maintains a temperature of approximately 27°C (80°F) and allows visitors to observe the butterfly life cycle in real-time.
The Willard Smith Planetarium features live, presenter-led shows exploring astronomy and space science. Admission is included with general entry, but visitors must reserve a timed ticket at the information desk upon arrival as capacity is limited.
The Laser Dome uses a 15,000-watt digital sound system and multi-coloured lasers to create immersive music programmes. Family-friendly daytime shows are included with admission, while longer evening performances featuring contemporary music require a separate ticket.
Tinker Tank Makerspace provides a hands-on environment where visitors can engage in engineering challenges and creative construction. This area focuses on physical science principles through activities like wind tunnels and gravity tracks.
Practical visitor tips
| Tip Category | Advice |
| Timing | Arrive at 10:00 to secure timed tickets for the Planetarium and Laser Dome. |
| Crowds | Weekdays are generally quieter, though school groups are common in the mornings. |
| Layout | Use the Sue Bird Court entrance for the most direct access to the main ticket desk. |
| Logistics | There is no on-site café; visitors may bring their own food to eat in the courtyard. |
| Entry | Download your digital tickets to your mobile device before arrival to expedite entry. |
Frequently asked questions about Pacific Science Center
| Query | Answer |
| Is Pacific Science Center suitable for children? | Yes, the centre is designed for families and includes dedicated areas for toddlers and school-aged children. |
| Do you need to book tickets in advance for Pacific Science Center? | Booking 24 hours in advance is recommended to receive a discounted rate and transit credits. |
| Is Pacific Science Center open on Sundays? | Yes, the centre is open on Sundays from 10:00 to 17:00. |
| Are bags allowed at Pacific Science Center? | Yes, standard bags are allowed, but there are no locker facilities for large luggage on-site. |
Things to do near Pacific Science Center
- Space Needle: An observation deck located within a two-minute walk.
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): A museum dedicated to contemporary popular culture located on the north side of the campus.
- Chihuly Garden and Glass: A gallery showcasing the glass art of Dale Chihuly, adjacent to the Space Needle.
- Seattle Children’s Theatre: A performing arts venue located immediately next to the science centre.
More Seattle travel
Other Seattle travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- How the Seattle weather plays a major part in your experience.
- A practical guide to visiting the Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle.
- Watch the salmon run at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks.
- How to get the best view of Seattle from Kerry Park.
- How to see the Fremont Troll in Seattle.
