Unleash your curiosity at the Science Museum of Virginia, where history meets innovation in a one-of-a-kind learning environment. Housed in the grand Broad Street Station, this museum brings STEM to life with interactive exhibits, high-tech experiences, and family-friendly programming that sparks wonder in visitors of all ages.
Recommended For
Families: Enjoy hands-on exhibits, rat basketball games, and special activities for children under five.
STEM Learners: Dive into exhibits on motion, ecosystems, health, and design—aligned with Virginia Standards of Learning.
Astronomy Buffs: Catch awe-inspiring films and presentations under the state-of-the-art Dome Theater.
Curious Travelers: Explore the museum’s rich rail history, permanent exhibits, and rotating blockbuster showcases.
What to Expect
- Historic Setting: Housed in the former Broad Street rail station, a 1917 Beaux-Arts landmark.
- Interactive Exhibits: Explore science through engaging, touch-friendly displays and live demonstrations.
- Planetarium Dome: One of the world’s most advanced digital dome theaters with daily shows and immersive visuals.
Exhibit Highlights
- Speed: A five-part gallery exploring the science of motion—from space tech to sports to nature. Don’t miss the SR-71 Blackbird and ceiling light race.
- Boost! A wellness-focused area featuring Kitchen Stadium and interactive health exhibits.
- Idea Factory: Creative exploration meets STEM with foam play, art labs, and a graphic arts studio for teens.
- LightPlace: A discovery zone just for children ages 5 and under with exploratory play and sensory fun.
- Creatures: Home to the museum’s live animals, honeybee hive, and daily rat basketball games.
- Out of This World: Features floating kugel balls and the original cracked Grand Kugel.
- Historical Exhibits: Includes a Kanawha class locomotive, business railcar, and the Aluminaut submarine.
Special Exhibitions
- Da Vinci Alive: The Experience: A multi-sensory journey through da Vinci’s art and inventions using SENSORY4™ immersive technology.
Programs & Education
- Daily Demos & Labs: Science comes alive through staff-led experiments and learning stations.
- The MiX: A teen-only creative space offering technology and arts-based programming.
- Climate Connections: Talks, lectures, and disaster planning simulations focused on Virginia’s climate challenges.
- The Dome Theater: Giant screen films and live astronomy shows on a NanoSeam™ digital dome—the largest in the state.
Visitor Amenities
- The Periodic Table Café: Grab a snack or lunch in this casual on-site eatery.
- Shop4Science: Browse educational gifts, books, kits, and museum merchandise.
Visitor Info
- Location: 2500 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
- Phone: 804-864-1400
- Website: smv.org
Tip: Plan at least 3–4 hours to enjoy all the exhibits and a Dome show. Weekends can be busy—consider visiting on weekday afternoons for a quieter experience.
Plan Your Trip