Playmotion is a very cool interactive video wall
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Science East

4.6
·75 reviews·Fredericton, Canada

A unique children's science museum housed in a historic jail, offering interactive exhibits in chemistry, physics, and robotics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more hands-on time

CrowdLow
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Playmotion is a very cool interactive video wall

Science East

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more hands-on time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique children's science museum housed in a historic jail, offering interactive exhibits in chemistry, physics, and robotics.

4.6
(75 reviews)

"A delightful experience for adults expecting an East Children Science Centre, with cool exhibits and a unique jail history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Kids' Focus

It's geared towards younger children, so let them lead the exploration and enjoy the hands-on fun!

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Consider arriving early or using public transport.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Throughout the museum

Hands-on displays in chemistry, physics, and robotics that engage young minds and encourage exploration.

The Old Jail Setting

The Old Jail Setting

Within the museum

Explore the unique historical jail cells, offering a fascinating blend of science and local history.

Slime Making Activity

Slime Making Activity

Activity area

A messy, fun, and memorable science experiment that kids absolutely love.

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Planning Your Visit

Manage Expectations: It's a Children's Science Center

Science East is primarily designed for younger children (around 10 and under) with hands-on exhibits. Travelers expecting a large-scale science center like Science North might be surprised by its size and focus. Embrace the child-friendly atmosphere for the best experience.

Book Ahead for Special Events

While generally well-organized, the Halloween event experienced overcrowding, leading to safety concerns. Booking tickets in advance, especially for special events, is recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Check their website for event details and capacity.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more hands-on time
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (post-lunch)
Why
School groups may have left
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sometimes, it is good to find these relics here and there to show how far we went. Also a good reminder that not that long ago, we had a West/East Germany division. #museum #uidaho #science
pedroh1986
92.3K likes • 3.3M views

🎯 Embrace the Kids' Focus

It's geared towards younger children, so let them lead the exploration and enjoy the hands-on fun! Reddit

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Consider arriving early or using public transport. Reddit

More investment for Galway East. More support for our students. New science labs, climate-action works, and major upgrades approved for schools across the region. Proud to keep delivering. 💡
albertdolan
87 likes • 7.7K views
We’re kicking off the celebration at the Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics in East Harlem ahead of our 2025 State of Our Schools Address! Join us live with @DOEChancellor at 10:30AM on nyc.gov.
nycschools
306 likes • 46.2K views

🧼 Slime Time Fun!

Don't miss the slime making activity – it's a huge hit with the kids! Reddit

📸 Heat Sensor Camera

The heat sensor camera is a surprisingly cool and engaging exhibit for all ages. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Kids' Focus

It's geared towards younger children, so let them lead the exploration and enjoy the hands-on fun! Reddit

🚗 Parking Availability

Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Consider arriving early or using public transport. Reddit

🧼 Slime Time Fun!

Don't miss the slime making activity – it's a huge hit with the kids! Reddit

📸 Heat Sensor Camera

The heat sensor camera is a surprisingly cool and engaging exhibit for all ages. Reddit

🎈 Birthday Party Spot

Consider Science East for a fun and interactive birthday party experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(75 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Science East to be a delightful and engaging experience, particularly for younger children, thanks to its interactive exhibits and unique historic jail setting. While some exhibits may require maintenance, the friendly staff and fun activities like slime making make it a memorable visit. Travelers should note its focus on younger audiences and be mindful of potential overcrowding during special events.

"Will not attend any science east related event again after attending their Halloween event/fundraiser in Fredericton today. It was over crowded to the point of becoming hazardous. Fundraising is great, but when you purposely sell more tickets than your space can support- you are being greedy. Not well organized and way too many tickets sold."

Candace Purcell

"Science East is not to be compared to Science North or ON Science Centre. Science East has repurposed a jail with a children’s science hands on exhibits.
Very children friendly , designed for 10 and under. The exhibits were traditional and would be informative and interesting for children. An upgrade incorporating the 21th c Web based science would be appreciated however keep the children’s theme. A name addition adding “Children’ in the title would stop the disappointment of travellers expecting a North/ON Science Centre experience. The limiting factor is the Jail … all in all a delightful experience for an adult who was expecting an East Children Science Centre . The coolest experience was the heat sensor camera."

Geoff Ramalho

"We recently had my son's birthday party at Science East and it was a great experience! The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The children really enjoyed the science activity and exploring the museum.
We noticed quite a few of the exhibits were out of order or needed repairs, however. Hopefully they get some TLC soon!"

Melanie

What People Like

Interactive exhibits
Child-friendly focus
Unique jail setting

What People Dislike

Some exhibits need repair
Overcrowding at events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Science East is located in Fredericton, New Brunswick. It's accessible by car and public transport. Parking is available on-site, but can be limited during busy periods. Reddit

Yes, Science East makes for a great half-day or full-day trip, especially for families with young children. Reddit

The closest major airport is Fredericton International Airport (YFC), which is a short drive from the museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Science East hours can vary, especially for special events. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. TikTok

Admission prices are generally affordable and family-friendly. Check the Science East website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially for special events, to avoid disappointment and ensure entry. Reddit

Look out for potential family passes, group rates, or seasonal promotions on their website. Reddit

For special events, it's crucial to book well in advance as they can sell out. Be aware that overcrowding has been an issue in the past, so arrive early. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Science East is primarily designed for children aged 10 and under, with interactive exhibits focused on early science concepts. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is known for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that encourage children to learn through play and experimentation. Reddit

The museum is housed in a repurposed jail, and you can explore some of the original jail cells, offering a unique historical perspective alongside the science exhibits. Reddit

Some reviews mention that a few exhibits may occasionally be out of order or in need of repair. It's worth noting, but doesn't detract significantly from the overall experience for most visitors. Reddit

While the historic jail building presents some challenges, Science East generally strives to be accessible. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Science East typically has a small snack bar or cafe offering light refreshments. It's advisable to check their website for current offerings. Reddit

Outside food and drinks may be permitted in designated areas, but it's best to confirm their policy upon arrival or on their website. Reddit

Yes, Fredericton has a variety of restaurants and cafes located a short distance from the museum, offering diverse dining options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside Science East, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in certain exhibit areas. Reddit

The old jail cells offer a unique backdrop, and the interactive exhibits provide fun opportunities for candid shots of children engaged in learning. Reddit

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