Renovating, re-energizing, re-imagining science
We're making Discovery Place better through a $31.6 million renovation that will bring all new interactive science and technology exhibits to the Museum.
This is the first time in the Museum's 27-year history that we have had an upgrade of this scale and we are excited to re-imagine a Discovery Place experience that presents contemporary science through engaging and fun activities for visitors of all ages.
The renovation work is underway. When you visit, you will notice that certain areas of the Museum are off limits. There are still lots of things to do, see and touch to keep you and your family playing and learning all day. Look for extraordinary new experiences — including a digital 3-D theatre, a large diverse aquarium and new lab stations for investigating with real science — to begin to be introduced in late 2009 and early 2010. We expect to complete all the work and be fully re-energized by June 2010.
You also might notice that some of your long-time Discovery Place favorite activities are no longer here. We loved some of these things too but we've had to remove them in order to make room for exciting and imaginative new exhibits. We're sure when you "meet" all of these new activities you will find new friends and discover new favorites.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the City of Charlotte and to all of you who are providing the funding for this much-needed upgrade. We also thank the Arts & Sciences Council Cultural Facilities Campaign and the many businesses and individuals whose generosity is making this project possible.
Renovation FAQS
- Is Discovery Place open while it is being renovated?
Yes. Discovery Place is open and operational throughout the renovation. We have special exhibitions, IMAX films and exciting demonstrations all available for you and your family to enjoy.
- What parts of the Museum are being renovated now?
The Level 2 hall has re-opened and now features the brand new exhibit Cool Stuff, the hands-on lab Explore More Stuff and the new show zone The Stage. Also, on this level are the Kapla Blocks and other exhibits from Simple Machines. Early next year, we will open additional new exhibits in these spaces.
The Level 1 hall is currently under renovation. KidsPlace has been relocated to Level 3 (note that the water table is not available). And, the aquarium and rainforest are no longer accessible as they undergo major upgrades and redesign but you can visit with BJ, the blue macaw, at the entrance to SHIPWRECK! The new aquarium, featuring larger tanks and hands-on labs, and the re-energized rainforest will re-open in Spring 2010. Please refer to the map for up-to-date information about which areas of the Museum are currently open.
- What activities are available now?
As we make room for all-new activities, we eventually will remove most of the exhibits in the Museum. We understand that everyone has favorite activities that will be missed. We’ve loved some of these things too but are sure that when you “meet” the new exhibits we have planned that you will be as excited as we are.
The Level 2 hall has just re-opened and features the brand new exhibition Cool Stuff plus the hands-on lab Explore More Stuff and The Stage. In addition, we are showcasing the special exhibition SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure through January 31. KidsPlace activities are available on Level 3.
Please note that the aquarium and rainforest are under renovation and are not available to the public.
- What changes will happen during the renovation?
We are creating all new interactive science and technology exhibits to fill the Museum. In addition, the Museum will get a new, brighter look, improved infrastructure and upgraded way finding.
- When will the renovation be completed?
The renovation will be completed by June 2010 but new interactive exhibits and hands-on activities have already begun to be introduced. Cool Stuff, Explore More Stuff and The Stage recently opened. Additional exhibits will be introduced into the Museum in early 2010.
- What will be new/different about Discovery Place?
We are re-inventing the visitor experience at Discovery Place, filling the Museum with all new science and technology exhibits and interactive displays that present science in a topical and contemporary way.
In addition, infrastructural improvements will be made to the Museum that will allow it to operate more efficiently. The interior spaces will be upgraded to create a bright, fresh look and to improve visitor amenities and exhibition space.
The renovated Museum will continue to develop and bring world class exhibitions to Charlotte such as The Dead Sea Scrolls, Body Worlds and A Day in Pompeii.
- What kinds of exhibits will be in the new Discovery Place?
The Museum will be filled with all-new science and technology exhibits and interactive displays that present science in a topical and contemporary way.
The first new exhibit areas recently opened. Cool Stuff, Explore More Stuff and The Stage are now featured on Level 2. Additional new exhibitions will be introduced in early 2010. Be sure to sign up for the eNewsletter (click on the button at the top of the page) to get the latest information about exhibit openings.
- Will you continue to bring special exhibitions into the Museum?
Yes. Shipwreck! Pirates & Treasure, a deep-sea adventure in the world of underwater exploration, will be on exhibition July 4, 2009 through January 31, 2010. After that, we will showcase Discovery Place’s new exhibitions along with periodic special limited engagement exhibitions.
- Which entrances are open?
Guests can enter Discovery Place from the 6th Street entrance or through the Level 3 entrance which is accessible through the Museum’s parking garage. The Tryon Street entrance is currently closed.
- Are there any changes to parking?
The Discovery Place Parking Garage is open. Park and cross the Church Street bridge to the Level 3 entrance.
- Is the IMAX Dome Theatre open?
Yes, the IMAX Dome Theatre will remain open and operational throughout the renovation. Click here
to check out a breathtaking Discovery film or latest Hollywood feature.
- What measures will be taken to ensure the safety of guests and employees?
Discovery Place is committed to providing a safe and nurturing learning environment for our guests. Areas under construction are sealed off behind floor-to-ceiling construction walls and are completely inaccessible to the public. In addition, certain parts of the renovation project will occur when the Museum is not open to the public.
- What about Discovery Place KIDS? When will that facility open?
We are developing the first location of Discovery Place KIDS in Huntersville and are working towards an opening in the second half of 2010. Click here to learn more about our new children's museum.
- Will Charlotte Nature Museum be closed?
Charlotte Nature Museum will operate as usual.
- Can I support the renovation?
If you or your company are interested in making a financial contribution to support operations related to the renovation or are interested in becoming an exclusive sponsor, please contact Julia Allen at 704.348.1965.
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