With more than 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits, the Kirby Science Discovery Center offers an incredible array of fun and educational activities for all ages, but especially for kids! There’s always something new to see and do, from exploring space to learning about tornadoes, from digging for dinosaur bones to discovering how water moves and changes. The Kirby Science Discovery Center will be your child’s favorite place to play!
Kirby science discovery center
Current Exhibits
You’ll have so much fun you won’t realize how much you’re learning!
Dinosaurs in the Wild
Our dinosaurs can’t wait to meet you! Come take a picture, but please don’t climb on them.
Space: An Out of this World Experience
Space: An Out-of-this-World Experience is a hands-on exhibition that gives a glimpse of the challenges and triumphs of space exploration.
Jack’s Imagination Lab
Children of all ages can gather in the Jack’s Imagination Lab to learn about science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM), courtesy of South Dakota State University (SDSU.)
H2O Workshop
Our immersive water experience, H2O Workshop, is a one-of-a-kind exhibit that includes interactive, colorful and educational features to help visitors of all ages learn about the phases of water and have fun!
Dinosaur Discovery
Step back into prehistoric times and meet dinosaurs like the Dakotaraptors, the Pterosaur, Triceratops and others.
Grow It!
Drive a tractor, shop in a market, crawl underground, experience weather changes firsthand and more in our agriculture-themed exhibition!
Learn South Dakota
Explore the state of South Dakota without ever leaving the Washington Pavilion! Learn more about our state while experiencing its breathtaking beauty.
Quarry Dig
Get a glimpse of working life inside a quarry with explosives, tunnels, a conveyor belt and mining equipment.
State of Wonder
Step into the stairwell outside of our Learn South Dakota exhibits to experience the panoramic and macro photography of Paul Schiller.
Avera Stage Science
Satisfy your inner mad scientist with exciting demonstrations from our Stage Science, sponsored by Avera.
Health Quest by Sanford
Health Quest by Sanford features fun, interactive exhibits themed in health and wellness, allowing kids to learn about and explore topics such as anatomy, DNA, emergency care and medical occupations.
Prehistoric Adventure Climber
The Washington Pavilion and the David B. Jones Foundation have partnered to provide an exhibit on the fourth floor of the Kirby Science Discovery Center that combines fitness, education and fun.
fit Zone fueled by Sanford Health
Exercise and have fun in the fit Zone with a dance gaming system, fun physical activities and virtual reality bicycles. Try the popular horizontal rock wall and wheelchair racers. fit Zone, where fitness is fun!
Coming Fall 2025
Space Explorers: Mission Infinity
Space: An Out-of-this-World Experience is a hands-on exhibition that gives a glimpse of the challenges and triumphs of space exploration.
Discovery Den
Welcome to the Discovery Den — where imagination meets exploration! Designed for curious kids of all ages, this interactive play space inspires creativity through NEW hands-on exhibits that rotate every four months.