Discovery Centre

Science museum · Halifax

Discovery Centre

Science museum · Halifax

1

1215 Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 3S8, Canada

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Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null
Discovery Centre by null

Highlights

Interactive science, tech, arts, math exhibits for all ages  

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1215 Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 3S8, Canada Get directions

thediscoverycentre.ca
@discoverycentrehalifax

Information

Static Map

1215 Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 3S8, Canada Get directions

+1 902 492 4422
thediscoverycentre.ca
@discoverycentrehalifax
𝕏
@discoverycntr

Features

gender neutral restroom
restroom
crowd family friendly
wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance
wheelchair accessible restroom

Last updated

Aug 24, 2025

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@afar

In-Depth Review of Muir Hotel in Halifax - AFAR

"A nearby attraction listed among several museums and activities within about a 15-minute walk of the waterfront hub." - Aislyn Greene

https://www.afar.com/hotels/muir-halifax
View Postcard for Discovery Centre

Sophiya A

Google
A works event was organized there - I must say, I was very impressed and surprised at how much my team had fun! This place is also great for adult, not only children... You can let loose and be a kid!!

shamsan alammari

Google
The Discovery Centre in Nova Scotia is a remarkable destination that captivates visitors through its blend of natural wonders, historical significance, and interactive experiences. Located in the heart of Halifax, this state-of-the-art facility serves as a hub for exploration and education, making it a must-visit for families, students, and tourists alike. Unique Features The Discovery Centre is designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for science and the environment. Its most important natural feature is the stunning marine exhibits that showcase the rich biodiversity of Nova Scotia's coastal waters. Visitors can explore interactive displays that highlight the province's unique ecosystems, including tidal pools and marine life. Historically, the centre pays homage to Nova Scotia's maritime heritage, with exhibits that delve into the province's storied past, including its role in shipbuilding and the fishing industry. Activities Visitors can engage in a variety of hands-on activities, including: Interactive science exhibits Live demonstrations Educational workshops Special events throughout the year The centre also features a planetarium, offering stunning shows that explore the wonders of the universe, making it an educational experience for all ages. Geographical Location Situated in Halifax, the Discovery Centre is easily accessible and surrounded by other attractions, including the waterfront and historic sites, making it an ideal starting point for any exploration of the city. Facilities and Services The Discovery Centre offers a range of facilities and services to enhance visitors' experiences: - Gift shop featuring local crafts and educational materials - Café serving refreshments and snacks - Accessible facilities for all visitors - Free Wi-Fi throughout the building Parking Options For those driving to the centre, there are both free and paid parking options available nearby, ensuring ease of access for all visitors. Conclusion With its engaging exhibits, interactive learning opportunities, and a prime location in Halifax, the Discovery Centre in Nova Scotia stands out as a unique destination that inspires discovery and appreciation for the natural and historical treasures of the region. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, plan your trip today and embark on an adventure of exploration and learning!

Diane Tabone

Google
Great place to spend a few hours with kids(adults will love it as well!) Huge amount of exhibits and three floors to visit. Lots for all ages ranges and some snacks available as well?

Jeannie & Heather Rice-Sawyer

Google
Awesome place to visit when you are trying to entertain four boys under 14. The oldest has autism and seems too old to be there by look but he loved it more than the rest of them. The only complaint is the amount of camp kids there that are unruly and their counsellors are just sitting on the provided seats/sofa areas. My kids were picking up after them. In the “store” section, one of the groups four or five children were throwing the fake foods around. The floor was covered from the store to the “vet clinic.” My youngest even thought he had to break up a fight (it was just two kiddos wrestling a little in a playful way) which upset him for a minute. All minor though, because it was a blast. And there was air conditioning. We took in a live sky dome movie…we enjoyed it and the staff who ran it was really knowledgeable. We all wish we would have chosen one of the actual movies though, as it would have felt more like we were getting views and moving around by with the cameras. They have a canteen and lots of bathrooms. We never had to wait in line. Buying tickets online is easy.

R Ho

Google
It’s a very interactive museum for children, especially young ones. There are a total of 4 floors. There is an elevator, but can use stairs. The stairs leading to the third floor is like a piano, which was nice. There’s the innovative room on ground zero and hockey. The ocean room is very nice. All the floors were quite active. Visiting from NY, I have definitely never had a hockey “rink” in a museum. The price wasn’t too bad either. Unfortunately, the museum closes at 1600, which is quite early for me so best to make other plans if you want to stay out with kids past that time.

NM

Google
Great place to visit with the kids, lots of interactive activities. We’ve lucky to get there on Friday, so it was not much crowded.

Tristan Roddick

Google
I was originally going to rate the Discovery Centre at 4/5 stars, and then I realized why I was even writing this review - I'm sitting here, watching my kids (3 and 7 years old) have an amazing time, like they do EVERY TIME. We've got a membership we keep renewing because of the value we get out of coming here with the kids - they adore this place. We come half a dozen times a year or more. And with good reason - it's got a ton of heart, and fun activities for all ages. The activities and displays are good, but the way you feel the excitement from the staff is what really has endeared us, the adults, to this place. It's a great option as part of your downtown hang in the city. Well worth the visit.

Devon Parsons

Google
Went while the Mazes and Brain Games exhibit was there. Really cool, but I would say more for kids 8+. What was amazing was we went during the week while school was still in, around 2pm (they close at 4pm), so it was quite empty. Actually, got to enjoy the exhibits. Kids always have a blast.
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Joanna R.

Yelp
An amazing museum and very affordable. The staff stationed throughout the museum were all so informative and helpful. My 5 and 2 year old enjoyed all the exhibits and on an early Thursday morning we found the place pretty quiet. The bubble room, musical stairs, and energy rooms were our favorites. Lots of clean spacious bathrooms, a coat check area, and snack bar. Just a short (1/3 mi?) walk from the cruise terminal. We really recommend this place!
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Ashley L.

Yelp
My review of the Discovery Centre is based on the Science, Spirits and Boos event. Okay, you know me, I just have to be honest. I don't blame Yelp for this one but overall this event was lame. Firstly, I hated that I couldn't really mingle with other yelpers. :( Secondly, no free food or drink? Not even water was free (besides the fountain I finally found). I guess I just assumed for 38 bucks a ticket (yes thankfully as a Yelp elite I didn't have to pay but can't believe others did). We had to ask the girl selling food where we could get water and she said we could wait in the line for the bar but then went and got us a plastic cup that we could fill at the fountain. Now here's the real disgusting part, food and drink costs were astronomical! $7.50 for a tiny little plastic cup of green liquid, $4.25 for a bottle of water, $4.50 for a cup of chili, and no vegan options (not that I'd spend that even if they did). Next, it didn't feel much like a Halloween party besides people being dressed up. I did love the giant screens with the projections of ghosts and Jack o'lanterns but would have been nice to have had Halloween music and some other decor. The building itself is beautiful. I love the giant colorful lights and the view of the seaport market from the top floor. It was my first time at the Discovery Center and I am glad I did get to visit, especially for free but I definitely wouldn't pay to go back. I found myself really bored by the exhibits. My favourite part were the 3d printers. It was so cool to finally see one in person. I also have to mention that I was in fact offended by the organ dissections going on. I walked into the room not knowing what it was and saw a giant cow heart on the table. I asked what it was and turned around and said "nope I'm not okay with this." As a vegan, that was pretty heartbreaking to me. I was also offended by the kids area where they had a fake cow to milk and a plastic butcher shop area with fake meat to play with. Apologies for letting my vegan show, it's just pretty hard to disconnect. Nothing against jazz or the band playing but that also felt strange for a Halloween party. Anyhow, I thank Yelp for getting me in for free and since I was with my friend we still had an okay time but we left by 9pm because of everything I described. I definitely have no desire to visit the Discovery Center again. This event was a pretty big disappoint for me.
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Cat B.

Yelp
I'm still on the third floor right now - lots of stuff up here for kids to explore. Lots of chairs for adults to sit while kids play. Ample space for adults to play with the kids. Lots of different themes, lots of levers, buttons, spinners, bubbles, music, lights. ... ok... I'm at the Dino floor. Very cool interactive stuff. Glad I got a membership, I'll definitely come back again. Staff are friendly and helpful. You can bring your food here as there are many tables to sit and eat a meal as a break. (Thank you to the staff who messaged me back within a half hour so we could plan our trip.) You can also leave and come back later in the day with your ticket. Which means you can enjoy the waterfront and when it gets too hot outside, come back inside. Thanks to all of the adults with kids and without who recommended we go. Awesome! (Thanks to Hali the Train for the drop off and pick up.)
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Jodi B.

Yelp
I am in love with the new Discovery Centre space. I had never been to the old place on Barrington Street, but this new space on Lower Water is gorgeous, roomy, and bound to be fun for the entire family. I really wish my nieces and nephews lived closer so I could take them! It'd be a fun place to run around with them in for a couple of hours. The staff here are amazing with kids - when I was putting my coat away I saw a staff member showing kids a neat air shooter experiment while they waited for the rest of their group to get through the ticket line. I honestly have no idea what it was, but the joy and awe on the kids faces as they tried it out made my heart warm. There are three? four? stories in the building - the first floor is home to the gift shop, ticket centre and coat area. There is also a theatre here, but I'm not certain what it's about. Go downstairs and you'll find the travelling exhibit - when I was there it was all about music production. I loved it, and had a lot of fun playing around with the different displays. On the second floor is a huge play area for kids (or adults!) to discover how energy works. It's sponsored by Nova Scotia power (a fitting sponsor!) and looks like a place I would've enjoyed checking out when I was a kid. It reminded me a lot of the science centre I used to go to when I was a kid, though I admit I didn't look very closely at this area. On the top floor you'll not only find a beautiful view, but a play area for smaller kids. I went when the new location had just opened up so they were still figuring it out, but it looked like it would be a great way to get smaller minds to engage with other kids and new spaces. Oh, and did I mention that they have piano stairs? Love it! I really love places like The Discovery Centre - science museums are so important to teaching people that science can be fun! I'm really glad they got an upgraded space, because it seems to be totally perfect for them! I can't wait to go back on a date night with my husband (Wednesday nights are free!)
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Valentina K.

Yelp
We visited when it first open and loved the lower level with Rock music tribute exhibition and the Innovation Lab. The other floors were not so much for my 12 year old son, but we will come back again to see new exhibitons. The Discovery Centre is free admission on Wednesday nights.
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Nathan M.

Yelp
My family and i went to Discovery Center Halifax for the day and it was amazing!! All of the things that they offered there were great! The staff that worked there were also very kind and friendly!! I will be returning to Discovery Center Halifax again in the future :)
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Karen V.

Yelp
This place is really bad. My husband and I went here. Weird place for a date right? Wrong. Every other city I've been in the playfulness of a science centre is perfect! Great afternoon date! Sure it's a bit childish but at least it keeps it interesting and light. This place. I'm surprised the kids were interested! I'm not joking when I say the space is half displays and half stairs. The top floor is a weird play zone for kids that can hardly contain them. Second floor is a weird ad for Nova Scotia power. First floor is where you pay, go to the theatre (which costs more), and a gift shop. Bottom floor had a cramped room to do some "innovation" (their word) things. Like connect wires to potatoes. Behind that was a 3D printer which was, at the time, surrounded by people in suits ( I assume a meeting was happening right there for some weird reason, because the discovery zone shill sure was ignoring the people before us trying to experience what was on offer). There was a rock and roll museum with blurbs about shit everyone knows. Even as a 10 year old I'd be bored. Don't go!