Australian Space Discovery Centre - Image 1
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Australian Space Discovery Centre

4.7
·190 reviews·Adelaide, Australia

Explore the wonders of space with interactive exhibits and inspiring stories of Australia's role in cosmic exploration.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends & School Holidays

Special programs and activities.

CrowdMedium
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Australian Space Discovery Centre - Image 1

Australian Space Discovery Centre

Best Time

Weekends & School Holidays

Special programs and activities.

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the wonders of space with interactive exhibits and inspiring stories of Australia's role in cosmic exploration.

4.7
(190 reviews)

"Be educated, enthralled, inspired and intrigued by this outstanding Space Centre!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Workshops Online

Popular activities like rocket building fill up fast! Book ahead online to avoid disappointment.

👕 Dress in Layers

The venue can be warm, so it's best to wear comfortable clothing you can easily adjust.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Main Exhibition Hall

Engage with hands-on displays, from Mars rover sandpits to paper rocket challenges. Fun for all ages!

Real-Time Space Tracking

Real-Time Space Tracking

Tracker Station

See the International Space Station or Moon in real-time. A truly awe-inspiring experience!

Meet Astro!

Meet Astro!

Entrance Area

Say hello to Astro, the friendly mascot! A delightful photo opportunity for younger visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Events

While general entry is often free, popular workshops and school holiday programs can book out quickly. Check the Australian Space Discovery Centre website and book online to secure your spot, especially if visiting with kids during peak times. Instagram+1

Location & Accessibility

Find the centre easily on North Terrace, Adelaide, near the Botanic Gardens. Look for the A-frame sign as it's not always prominently signposted. The venue is warm, so dress in layers. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends & School Holidays
Why
Special programs and activities.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Afternoons (Wed-Fri)
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

INSIDE AUSTRALIA’S MOST FAMOUS TRAIN - THE GHAN 🚂 Taking you from Darwin to Adelaide through the outback over 4 days, this is a really special Aussie adventure! Join the journey with me! #australia #travellife #outback #trainjourney #theghan #visitaustralia #australia🇦🇺
@lifeofjz_
16.5K likes • 224.2K views

🎯 Book Workshops Online

Popular activities like rocket building fill up fast! Book ahead online to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

👕 Dress in Layers

The venue can be warm, so it's best to wear comfortable clothing you can easily adjust. Reddit

@lotfourteenadl @adlfringe #adelaide @australianspaceagency #australianspacediscoverycentre Meet Astro!
welcometosa
17 likes • 432 views
👩‍🚀👨‍🚀 TWIN…where have you been? At the Australian Space Discovery Centre, obviously! Open all weekend, swing by and say hi. space.gov.au
australianspaceagency
362 likes • 7.2K views

🚀 Explore Interactive Fun

Don't miss the Mars Rover sandpit and paper rocket challenges – great for kids! Instagram

📍 Look for the A-Frame

Signage can be subtle; keep an eye out for the A-frame board near the entrance. Reddit

MasyaAllah Tabarakallah ❤️ Latepost liburan summer lalu, siapa tau bisa jadi ide liburan bersama anak-anak di Adelaide ❤️ Australian Discovery Space Centre bisa jadi pilihan mengisi liburan bersama anak-anak. Selain bisa eksplore about space, kita juga bisa booking aktivitas via online untuk anak-anak. Dimulai dengan story telling about space dengan karakter Bluey, penjelasan tentang satelit, me...
yaniaruzlifatin
21 likes • 308 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Workshops Online

Popular activities like rocket building fill up fast! Book ahead online to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

👕 Dress in Layers

The venue can be warm, so it's best to wear comfortable clothing you can easily adjust. Reddit

🚀 Explore Interactive Fun

Don't miss the Mars Rover sandpit and paper rocket challenges – great for kids! Instagram

📍 Look for the A-Frame

Signage can be subtle; keep an eye out for the A-frame board near the entrance. Reddit

✨ Friendly & Inclusive Staff

Staff are welcoming and go out of their way to assist visitors, including those with special needs. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(190 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Australian Space Discovery Centre for its engaging, interactive exhibits and the exceptional friendliness of its staff. It's highlighted as a highly educational and inspiring place for families, with a particular commendation for its inclusive and accessible environment. While general entry is free, some paid programs can book out quickly.

"Space.....we know so little and yet have discovered so much.
Be educated, enthralled, inspired and intrigued by this outstanding Space Centre!
Interaction is encouraged by many formats and are easy to engage with, providing a wealth of information.
I had the pleasure of listening to Alana at a small presentation on 'The Moon'. Informative, engaging with surprising statistics, she spoke with clarity and precision.
I encourage parents to make the effort, take your children to visit this amazing centre and DISCOVER SPACE! The Team are very friendly and welcoming, keen to answer your questions and/or assist.

Located at the eastern end of North Terrace, shortly before the Adelaide Botanic Gardens entrance.
Although not sign posted well, look out for the A frame board, to your left.

The venue is warm, be prepared to remove jackets etc. Public amenities are available and very clean. Seating is available and a small amount of items may be purchased.

I highly recommend you visit the Australian Space Discovery Centre and learn something, be inspired and leave with new found knowledge!"

See it

"Things to Do This Winter? 🔬❄️
Have you tried visiting the Adelaide Science Centre?
It’s the perfect indoor spot this chilly season—fun, interactive, and educational, especially for the kids! 🧪👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Not only is the place super cool, but the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to make your science adventure even more exciting. From hands-on experiments to awesome tech and gadgets, there’s so much to explore and play with.

We had a blast learning and discovering new things. Definitely a great day out—we’ll be back again soon! 👏✨"

Giezel Ann Manzano

"Such an amazing place to visit with the kids. It's so educational. You can learn such a lot while playing or answering the questions. My son and I had such a great time there."

natali nata

What People Like

Friendly and helpful staff
Interactive and educational exhibits
Inclusive and accessible environment

What People Dislike

Can book out quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The centre is located on North Terrace in Adelaide, near the Botanic Gardens. It's accessible by public transport and within walking distance of the city centre. Look for the A-frame sign as it's not always well-signposted. Reddit

While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the centre, there are several public car parks and street parking options available in the surrounding Adelaide CBD area. Consider public transport to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

Absolutely! The centre is easily reachable by Adelaide's public transport network, including buses and trams that stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from many city accommodations. Instagram

North Terrace is a central hub. Buses frequently run along North Terrace, and the tram network also has stops within walking distance. It's a very accessible location. Instagram

Yes, it's a great addition to a day trip in Adelaide. Combine it with visits to the nearby Botanic Gardens or South Australian Museum for a full day of exploration. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Australian Space Discovery Centre is free. However, special workshops, events, and school holiday programs may require paid tickets and advance booking. Instagram+1

While general entry is free, it's highly recommended to book tickets in advance for special events, workshops, and school holiday programs, as these often sell out. Instagram+1

Opening hours vary. Typically, the centre is open on Sundays and Wednesdays to Fridays, but it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. It is usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Instagram

General entry is free, so no discounts are needed. For paid programs, check for any family packages or group rates that might be available when booking. Instagram

Yes, the centre welcomes school groups and large parties. It's advisable to contact them directly to arrange group bookings and discuss available programs. Instagram+1

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the interactive exhibits like the Mars Rover sandpit, paper rocket challenge, and the real-time space tracker. Meeting Astro, the mascot, is also a highlight for kids. Instagram+1

It's fantastic for kids! With hands-on activities, engaging presentations, and interactive displays, it makes learning about space fun and accessible for all ages. Instagram+1

Yes, the centre is known for its inclusive and accessible environment. Staff are incredibly kind and accommodating, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors. Reddit

You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits and participating in activities. If attending a workshop, factor in the duration of that program as well. Instagram

The centre is designed to be accessible. Wide pathways and accessible facilities are available, making it comfortable for visitors with strollers or mobility aids. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The centre has a small retail area where some items may be purchased, but it does not have a full cafe. It's recommended to eat before or after your visit, or bring your own snacks. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own water bottles. For full meals, it's best to utilize nearby cafes or picnic spots in the adjacent Botanic Gardens. Reddit

North Terrace and the surrounding areas offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and food courts. The Adelaide Botanic Garden also has a cafe, and there are many options along Rundle Mall. Instagram

The Botanic Garden cafe is a convenient option for a quick bite. For more diverse choices, explore the eateries along North Terrace or head towards the Rundle Mall precinct. Instagram

Yes, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens adjacent to the centre provide beautiful picnic spots, perfect for enjoying a packed lunch before or after your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the centre. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disrupt exhibits or people. Instagram

While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or videography may require prior permission. Always check for any posted signs or ask staff if you're unsure. Instagram

Capture the interactive displays, the 'Astro' mascot, and any special exhibitions. The real-time tracking screens can also make for dynamic shots. Instagram+1

It's polite to ask staff if they are comfortable being photographed. Presenters might be happy to pose briefly after a talk, but their priority is engaging the audience. Reddit

The centre often has themed areas and interactive displays that serve as excellent backdrops for space-themed photos, especially for children. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Australian Space Discovery Centre is a dream destination for families! Its highly interactive exhibits are designed to captivate young minds, making learning about space an exciting adventure. From the Mars Rover sandpit to the paper rocket challenge, there are plenty of hands-on activities that kids will love. Instagram+1

Parents will appreciate the centre's welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Staff are known for their friendliness and willingness to assist, ensuring a comfortable experience for children with diverse needs. Booking popular workshops in advance is a good tip to make the most of your visit during school holidays or weekends. InstagramReddit

🚀 Budding Astronauts & Space Enthusiasts

For anyone fascinated by the cosmos, the Australian Space Discovery Centre offers a deep dive into space exploration. You can track celestial bodies in real-time, learn about Australia's role in the space industry, and explore the latest innovations. Instagram+1

Engage with knowledgeable staff who are passionate about space and eager to share insights. The centre provides a fantastic opportunity to fuel your curiosity and perhaps even inspire a future career in STEM. Don't miss the chance to interact with cutting-edge technology and learn about the universe. Instagram

🧑‍🏫 Educators & School Groups

The Australian Space Discovery Centre is an excellent educational resource for schools. It offers engaging programs and interactive exhibits that align with science curricula, making learning about space dynamic and memorable. Instagram+1

Group bookings are welcomed, and the centre's staff are experienced in facilitating educational experiences for students of all ages. It's a perfect venue for school excursions that aim to inspire curiosity and a passion for science and technology. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Australia's Role in Space

The Australian Space Discovery Centre highlights Australia's significant contributions to space exploration and technology. It showcases how the nation is actively involved in various space missions, from satellite technology to deep space communication. Visitors can learn about the Australian Space Agency and its goals to grow the Australian space industry. Instagram+1

Through engaging exhibits, the centre aims to inspire the next generation of space scientists and engineers. You'll discover stories of innovation, curiosity, and the technological advancements driven by Australian ingenuity. It's a great place to understand the local impact and future potential of space exploration. Instagram+1

From tracking satellites to understanding the challenges of space missions, the centre provides a comprehensive overview. It emphasizes opportunities within the space sector and encourages visitors to see how they can be a part of Australia's space future. Instagram+1

Interactive Learning for All Ages

One of the standout features of the Australian Space Discovery Centre is its commitment to interactive learning. Unlike traditional museums, this centre encourages visitors to do, play, and discover. Children can get hands-on with activities like building paper rockets, digging in a Mars Rover sandpit, or navigating planetary hopscotch. Instagram

These activities are not just for fun; they are designed to teach fundamental scientific principles in an engaging way. For instance, the paper rocket challenge can teach basic aerodynamics, while the Mars Rover sandpit might introduce concepts of robotics and terrain exploration. The centre ensures that learning feels like an adventure. Instagram

Even adults find themselves captivated by the interactive displays, such as the real-time space tracker that allows you to pinpoint the location of the ISS or the Moon. The centre's design fosters a sense of wonder and curiosity, making it a truly memorable experience for families and individuals alike. Instagram

Accessibility and Inclusivity

The Australian Space Discovery Centre has received significant praise for its inclusive and accessible approach. Visitors have shared heartwarming experiences of how the staff go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels welcome and comfortable. This is particularly evident in how they cater to children with special needs, including autism. Reddit

Staff are described as incredibly kind, chatty, and upbeat, with a genuine desire to assist. They are attentive to individual needs, such as providing seating for those feeling dizzy or engaging patiently with children who have extensive knowledge and specific interests in space. This creates a positive and supportive atmosphere for all visitors. Reddit

The centre's commitment to inclusivity means that the educational programs and interactive displays are designed to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their background or abilities. This focus on creating a welcoming environment makes the Australian Space Discovery Centre a standout destination for families seeking an enriching and accessible outing. Reddit

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