Explora Science Center
Explora Science Center: A vibrant hub of hands-on discovery with over 250 interactive exhibits for all ages, plus outdoor fun.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Explora Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explora Science Center: A vibrant hub of hands-on discovery with over 250 interactive exhibits for all ages, plus outdoor fun.
"Everyone left happy and wanting to stay longer! So much to explore!"
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll likely want to stay longer than planned! Aim for 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits.
💰 Check ASTC Membership
Your science museum membership might grant free entry via the ASTC Passport Program.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hands-On Science Exhibits
Engage with over 250 interactive exhibits exploring wind, water, gravity, magnets, and more. Fun for kids and adults alike!

Outdoor Exploration Area
Enjoy the outdoor space with water tables, a playground, and a unique tree swing. Perfect for burning energy on a nice day.

Toddler Zone
A dedicated, safe space for little ones to explore and play, ensuring fun for even the youngest visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for Interactive Fun
ASTC Passport Program Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll likely want to stay longer than planned! Aim for 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits.
💰 Check ASTC Membership
Your science museum membership might grant free entry via the ASTC Passport Program.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes for walking and playing.
🍎 Pack Snacks (or use cafe)
There's a small cafe, but bringing snacks can be helpful, especially with kids.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
You'll likely want to stay longer than planned! Aim for 3-4 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits.
💰 Check ASTC Membership
Your science museum membership might grant free entry via the ASTC Passport Program.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfy shoes for walking and playing.
🍎 Pack Snacks (or use cafe)
There's a small cafe, but bringing snacks can be helpful, especially with kids.
📱 Download Maps/Info
While not essential, having info handy can enhance your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Explora Science Center's highly interactive exhibits that captivate both children and adults, leading to hours of engaging fun. The outdoor space and toddler area are frequently praised, and many find the admission price to be a great value. Some wish they had allocated more time to explore everything.
"So much to explore! I went in with a group of children from my work and everyone left happy and wanting to stay longer! There are areas where children can enjoy for hours. Everything is clean especially the restrooms. I will be going back soon. Thank you for your warm welcome. We were running late and the girl upfront gave us a bit more time to explore."
Daniela Ivone
"Brought our 8 and 6 year old boys. Haven’t been here since they were 5 and 3, but they still loved it! Super interactive. They stayed in the same sections forever. We were there for about 2 hours. Could have stayed longer, but we were hangry. Not too crowded for a Saturday on a holiday weekend."
Cat
"Fun and exciting space for my toddlers to run around and burn some energy this summer. Engaging and plenty to do and see for a variety of ages. Loved the outdoor space, water tables, playground, and tree swing."
Alexi Derstine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Explora Science Center is located at 1701 Mountain Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.
Yes, there is parking available at Explora Science Center. It's generally convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, Explora Science Center is located near Old Town Albuquerque, making it a convenient stop if you're exploring that historic area.
For families, driving is often the most convenient option. If using public transport, ensure it's stroller-friendly and check for direct routes to minimize travel time with children.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Albuquerque and can be a convenient way to reach Explora Science Center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices typically range from $10-$11 for adults (ages 12-64). Children's pricing may vary, and it's always best to check their official website for the most current rates.
Explora participates in the ASTC Passport Program, meaning members of other participating museums may receive free or discounted admission. Check their website for details on other potential discounts.
Explora is generally open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, they are closed on certain holidays and may have early closures on others. Always verify current hours before your visit.
While not always strictly necessary, purchasing tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Check their website for online ticketing options.
Explora has a dedicated toddler area, and general admission covers access to all exhibits, including the toddler zone.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explora features over 250 hands-on, interactive exhibits covering science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). Topics include wind, water, gravity, magnets, and more, designed for all ages.
Absolutely! Explora has a dedicated toddler area and many exhibits are designed to be engaging for younger children, while still offering plenty for older kids and adults.
Most visitors find they need at least 2-3 hours, with many recommending 3-4 hours or even longer to fully experience all the exhibits.
Yes, Explora has an engaging outdoor space with water tables, a playground, and a tree swing, perfect for enjoying good weather.
Crowd levels can vary. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. Even on busy days, the interactive nature of the exhibits means there's usually space for everyone to engage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Explora has a small cafe-like area where you can purchase food and drinks. They often mark vegan and gluten-free options.
While outside food and drinks might be restricted in exhibit areas, it's often permissible to bring snacks for consumption in designated areas or outside. It's best to confirm their policy upon arrival.
The cafe typically offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages. They are known to have vegan and gluten-free options available.
Explora is located near Old Town Albuquerque, which offers a variety of dining options, from casual to more formal. You'll find many New Mexican cuisine restaurants in the vicinity.
Prices at the cafe are generally considered reasonable for a museum cafe, offering a convenient option for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Explora Science Center for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in areas where it might be disruptive.
The interactive exhibits themselves make for dynamic photos. The outdoor area with the tree swing and water tables also offers great photo opportunities.
While personal photography is usually fine, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Avoid obstructing exhibits or other guests.
Video recording for personal use is typically permitted. Capturing the interactive nature of the exhibits can make for great memories.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the fun. If you have a camera with good low-light performance, it can be beneficial for indoor shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Plan for at least 3-4 hours to truly enjoy everything. Consider checking if your home museum membership offers free entry through the ASTC Passport Program to save on admission. Weekday visits are generally less crowded, which can make the experience even more enjoyable for families with young children. The cafe offers some kid-friendly options, but bringing snacks is also a good idea.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, as museum cafes can add up. Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds, potentially leading to a more relaxed experience without the premium weekend pricing often associated with popular attractions. The sheer amount of exploration available means you can easily spend half a day or more here, getting a lot of bang for your buck.
🧑🤝🧑 Couples & Adults
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a great alternative to traditional museums, offering a more dynamic and hands-on experience. The cafe provides a casual spot to refuel and discuss your favorite exhibits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits: A Hands-On Adventure
Reviewers consistently praise the highly interactive nature of the exhibits, noting that children (and adults!) can spend hours engrossed in a single area. The variety ensures there's something to capture everyone's interest, from simple cause-and-effect experiments to more complex demonstrations. The outdoor exploration area is a particular highlight, offering a chance to enjoy the New Mexico sunshine while engaging with water features, a playground, and a unique tree swing.
For the youngest visitors, the dedicated toddler area provides a safe and stimulating environment. This space is thoughtfully designed with age-appropriate activities that encourage early exploration and sensory development. It allows parents to relax while their little ones discover and play without the risk of encountering exhibits meant for older children.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Savvy travelers recommend checking if your existing science museum membership is part of the ASTC Passport Program. This reciprocal membership can grant you free or discounted entry to Explora, offering significant savings. For families with young children, the Toddler Time sessions offer a more tailored experience, though the dedicated toddler area is accessible during regular hours.
Consider visiting during weekdays if possible, as they tend to be less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience. While there is a cafe on-site, some visitors find it beneficial to bring snacks, especially for longer visits with children, though it's always wise to confirm their policy on outside food.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit