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Discovery Center Springfield

4.5
·1k reviews·Springfield, United States

Explore science, dinosaurs, and LEGO worlds with interactive exhibits for all ages.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Discovery Center of Springfield - Image 1

Discovery Center Springfield

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore science, dinosaurs, and LEGO worlds with interactive exhibits for all ages.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A favorite place in Springfield, offering endless fun and educational discoveries for the whole family!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your tickets in advance online, especially for the LEGO Discovery Center .

💡 Membership Perks

A membership is the best deal for frequent visitors and offers flexibility for crowded days .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Dig

Dinosaur Dig

Dino Area

Step back in time with impressive animatronic dinosaurs and interactive exhibits.

Oobleck & MessFest

Oobleck & MessFest

Special Events

Experience the joy of messy science with hands-on experiments like oobleck at MessFest .

TikTok
LEGO Wonderland

LEGO Wonderland

LEGO Discovery Center

Immerse yourself in 12 interactive zones, build with millions of LEGO bricks, and explore MINILAND .

Instagram+1
Bubble Science

Bubble Science

BubbleFest

Marvel at the science behind bubbles with captivating demonstrations and hands-on fun .

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and school field trips. Booking tickets online in advance can often be cheaper than purchasing at the door, especially for the LEGO Discovery Center.Instagram

Membership Magic

If you're a local or plan multiple visits, a membership to the Discovery Center Springfield is highly recommended. It offers great value and allows for shorter visits if it gets too crowded.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Mornings
Why
Beat the afternoon rush
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique, limited-time experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Over 500lbs of oobleck for the Discovery Center's annual MessFest event! https://www.discoverycenter.org/mess/ #stem #handsonlearning #Science #discoverycenterofspringfield #sciencecenter #slime #messy #sensory
@gobbogoblin13
1.7K likes • 12.7K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your tickets in advance online, especially for the LEGO Discovery Center.Instagram

💡 Membership Perks

A membership is the best deal for frequent visitors and offers flexibility for crowded days.Reddit

👩🏼‍🚒 🚒 We're super excited to partner with Discovery Center Springfield for this fun new exhibit - Fire Station 3.14. Mark your calendars for the ribbon cutting Sept. 30 at 2 pm at the Discovery Center!
sgffire
75 likes • 1.1K views
LEGO DISCOVERY CENTER 📍 6563 Springfield Mall, Suite 12004, Springfield, VA 22150 Things to Know… 🚙 Located in the Springfield Mall…about a 2.5 hour drive from Cville. 🎟️ You need to purchase a ticket to enter. If you buy ahead of time (online), it is cheaper! Annual passes are also an option. 🤩 There are SO MANY activities to do…Building minifigs, workshops with Master Builders, movies, cli...
cville_kids
29 likes • 2.3K views

🔬 Hands-On Fun

Embrace the interactive exhibits; they're designed for all ages to learn and play.TikTokInstagram

🚗 Parking Info

If visiting the LEGO Discovery Center, note it's located inside Springfield Mall.Instagram

LEGO Discovery Center DC is officially OPEN at Springfield Town Center! 📍Springfield, VA (30 mins from DC) The best kid-friendly attraction that DMV needed! 12 Immersive Zones - 22,000 - Square Feet! Visitors will be surprised how much fun is packed into this space! Great for kids ages 2 -10. My kids did not want to leave! Stop by the cafe to take a break and enjoy desserts & slushies! Coff...
gallivantdmv
9.8K likes • 391.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your tickets in advance online, especially for the LEGO Discovery Center.Instagram

💡 Membership Perks

A membership is the best deal for frequent visitors and offers flexibility for crowded days.Reddit

🔬 Hands-On Fun

Embrace the interactive exhibits; they're designed for all ages to learn and play.TikTokInstagram

🚗 Parking Info

If visiting the LEGO Discovery Center, note it's located inside Springfield Mall.Instagram

📚 Library Pass Hack

Check with your local library for potential free passes to the Discovery Center.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Discovery Center Springfield for its engaging, educational, and fun exhibits that appeal to a wide range of ages. Many highlight the interactive nature of the displays and the value of a membership for frequent visitors. However, some reviews mention that certain exhibits can appear dated or in need of repair, and the center can become quite crowded, especially during peak times.

"We live in Branson , but visit almost once a week. My kids and I love this place so much ! My boys are 4 and 2, this place is fun for every age. Each floor is something new and educational. Every time we go we find something new ! Definitely buy a membership it’s the best deal!! I’m also a nurse and love looking at the different exhibits myself. Our favorites are the dino area , and minecraft block room. Yes this place gets packed - parties and field trips. However, we still have a blast and don’t mind the crowd. If you get a membership you don’t worry too much about a shorter visit if it’s too crowded for your liking. This is our favorite place in Springfield and what’s pushing us to move here !"

trinity nugent

"A pretty good price with a lot of things to do. It was a fun family friendly experience that we all enjoyed. Would recommend!!!!"

Stella Vlasich

"Really disappointed as I have a lot of great memories here from when I was a kid. Everything is either broken, missing a lot of pieces, or a relic from the 90s. Only giving it a second star because the dinosaurs animatronics were neat but I suspect they will be out of order in no time."

Caleb Trujillo

What People Like

Interactive and educational exhibits
Fun for all ages
Great value with membership

What People Dislike

Some exhibits dated
Can get very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Discovery Center Springfield is located in Springfield, MO. If you're referring to the LEGO Discovery Center, it's located at 6563 Springfield Mall, Suite 12004, Springfield, VA 22150, inside the Springfield Mall.Instagram+1

Yes, ample parking is available at the Discovery Center Springfield in Missouri. For the LEGO Discovery Center in Virginia, it is located within Springfield Mall, which offers extensive parking facilities.Instagram

Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point. It's recommended to use a GPS navigation app. For the LEGO Discovery Center, it's situated within Springfield Mall in Springfield, VA.Instagram

Public transportation options may vary depending on your location within Springfield, MO. For the LEGO Discovery Center in Virginia, it is accessible via public transport routes serving the Springfield Mall area.

The distance from downtown Springfield, MO, to the Discovery Center will vary. The LEGO Discovery Center in Springfield, VA, is about 30 minutes from Washington D.C..Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary. For the LEGO Discovery Center, admission starts around $27 when bundled, and can be cheaper if purchased online in advance.Instagram+1 Check their official website for the most current pricing for the Discovery Center Springfield, MO.

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for the LEGO Discovery Center, as it can be cheaper and guarantees entry.Instagram

Yes, look out for online booking discounts for the LEGO Discovery Center.Instagram+1 Also, check with your local library for potential free passes to the Discovery Center in Missouri.Reddit

Operating hours can vary. The LEGO Discovery Center in Virginia is typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with the last entry at 3:30 pm.Instagram It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours for both locations.

Yes, annual passes are an option for the LEGO Discovery Center, which can be a great value for frequent visitors.Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Popular exhibits include the dinosaur area, the Minecraft block room,Reddit and interactive science experiments like oobleck TikTok and bubble science.Instagram The LEGO Discovery Center boasts 12 interactive zones and a MINILAND.Instagram

Absolutely! The Discovery Center Springfield is fun for all ages, with many activities suitable for younger children.Reddit The LEGO Discovery Center is generally recommended for kids aged 2-10.Instagram

While the Discovery Center Springfield is designed for all ages, some educational activities might be more engaging for children aged 6 and up.Reddit The LEGO Discovery Center is best for ages 2-10.Instagram

The Discovery Center has multiple floors, each with different themes. Take your time to explore each level. The LEGO Discovery Center has 12 distinct zones to discover.Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Discovery Center Springfield. It's a great place to capture fun family memories.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, both the Discovery Center Springfield in Missouri and the LEGO Discovery Center in Virginia have cafes or dining areas where you can purchase snacks and meals.Instagram

Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's advisable to check the specific rules for the Discovery Center Springfield you plan to visit. The LEGO Discovery Center has a cafe.Instagram

Expect typical family-friendly fare like snacks, drinks, and light meals. The LEGO Discovery Center has a cafe for visitors to refuel.Instagram

While specific menus can change, most family-friendly venues offer some variety. It's best to inquire at the cafe upon arrival for current options.

Food prices are generally in line with what you'd expect at similar attractions. Packing your own snacks might be a budget-friendly option if permitted.

📸 📸 Photography

The dinosaur exhibits, the Minecraft room, and the colorful LEGO creations in MINILAND are fantastic photo opportunities.InstagramReddit

Generally, flash photography is permitted, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage regarding photography.

While general photography is allowed, professional photography or videography might require special permission. Always check the venue's policy.

A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing memories. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it can also be great for getting more detailed shots, especially in the LEGO areas.Instagram

Absolutely! The MINILAND, the interactive build zones, and the chance to create your own minifigure offer unique and memorable photo ops.Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Both the Discovery Center Springfield (MO) and the LEGO Discovery Center (VA) are fantastic destinations for families. The MO location offers a broad range of science exhibits suitable for all ages, with favorites like dinosaurs and interactive experiments.InstagramReddit The VA location is a paradise for LEGO lovers, featuring 12 themed zones, building areas, and rides, perfect for kids aged 2-10.Instagram+1

For families, consider purchasing a membership to the MO Discovery Center for cost savings and flexibility.Reddit For the LEGO center, booking tickets online in advance is recommended for better pricing.Instagram Both venues provide ample opportunities for kids to learn, play, and create lasting memories.

🧑‍🏫 Homeschoolers

The Discovery Center Springfield (MO) is a highly recommended educational outing for homeschool families. Its interactive and hands-on exhibits provide a fun and engaging way to supplement curriculum across various subjects, from science to history.InstagramReddit The variety of displays ensures that children of different ages can find something stimulating and educational. The LEGO Discovery Center (VA) also offers a unique learning experience through creative building and problem-solving, making it a great option for a 'field trip' that feels like pure fun.Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

To make your visit more budget-friendly, check if your local library offers free passes to the Discovery Center Springfield (MO).Reddit For the LEGO Discovery Center (VA), booking tickets online in advance can offer significant savings compared to walk-up prices.Instagram+1 Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to potentially find better deals or avoid peak crowds. Packing your own snacks or light meals can also help reduce on-site spending, if permitted by the venue.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the LEGO Discovery Center DC

The LEGO Discovery Center in Springfield, VA, is a vibrant indoor playground designed for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages, particularly children aged 2-10.Instagram+1 It features 12 interactive zones, offering a wealth of creative play opportunities. Visitors can build with millions of LEGO bricks, race cars down ramps, and even create their own minifigures.Instagram The center also boasts a MINILAND, showcasing iconic landmarks built from LEGOs, providing a visually stunning experience.Instagram

Beyond the building activities, the LEGO Discovery Center offers additional attractions like a 4D cinema for an immersive movie experience and various rides. The space is designed to spark imagination and encourage problem-solving skills through play. While tickets can be purchased at the door, booking online in advance is often more economical and guarantees entry.Instagram+1 The center is located within the Springfield Mall, making it a convenient destination for families in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.Instagram

Hands-On Science at Discovery Center Springfield (MO)

The Discovery Center Springfield in Missouri is a dynamic science museum dedicated to making learning fun and accessible for everyone. It features a wide array of interactive exhibits that cover topics from dinosaurs and DNA to weather and health.InstagramReddit Visitors can engage in exciting experiments, such as the famous oobleck at MessFest TikTok or the captivating bubble science demonstrations during BubbleFest.Instagram These hands-on activities are designed to ignite curiosity and provide a deeper understanding of scientific principles.

The center is praised for its educational value and engaging displays, making it a favorite for families and homeschoolers alike.InstagramReddit Exhibits like the dinosaur area and the Minecraft block room are particularly popular.Reddit The staff are noted for being friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the visitor experience. While the center can get crowded, especially with parties and field trips, the sheer variety of exhibits ensures there's always something new to discover on each visit.Reddit

Partnerships and Special Exhibits

Discovery Center Springfield actively collaborates with local organizations to bring unique exhibits and events to the community. For instance, they have partnered with the Springfield Fire Department for the 'Fire Station 3.14' exhibit,Instagram allowing children to explore a fire station environment. Another notable partnership is with Show-Me Reptile & Amphibian Show, which helped sponsor a new exhibit for the Elusive Cave Salamander.Instagram

These collaborations not only enrich the visitor experience with diverse and specialized content but also highlight the center's role as a community hub for education and engagement. Events like MessFest TikTok and BubbleFest Instagram are prime examples of how the Discovery Center creates memorable, hands-on learning opportunities that go beyond traditional exhibits, often drawing significant attention and participation.