Monday, June 1, 2009

Orlando Science Center: Let Your Imagination Run Wild

Author: Mark Whichard

The theme parks of Orlando are known for their imaginative rides and attractions, but the "real world" is often able to match the works of the best theme park designers. If you are not convinced of this then you should visit the Orlando Science Center with your kids. This is a place where you can go back in time, stare a dinosaur in the face or even take a trip to Jupiter. It also a place where you can vary your vacation a bit and mix in a bit of educative activities along with the pure fun of vacationing in Florida.

Established in 1955, the center hosts 400,000 visitors each year. The center combines touring science exhibits with its own ongoing features. Let's take a look at what's on offer at the science center.

First of all, if you are fascinated by the stars and planets then the center's Crosby Observatory is not to be missed. The observatory is home to the largest publicly accessible refractor telescope in the state of Florida and you can look up at the stars using this powerful instrument.

The first fossils of dinosaurs were only scientifically described in 1824, but since then people around the world have been engrossed in the imagination of these prehistoric giants. The center's DinoDigs is a place where you get a face-to-face look at these ancient creatures. Your kids will certainly enjoy it, and speaking of kids, make sure that you visit KidsTown. This is an interactive area of the center where youngsters can get hands-on experience exploring the world of science and nature.

Another interesting area of the center is called NatureWorks. Here you can get a first hand look at our earth's current crop of reptiles.

Everyone loves films and that is why the Dr. Phillips Cine Dome is a popular area of the science center. Here you can watch exciting, educational films in a grand style on an eight story screen. Whether it is feeling the sensation of flying or plunging into the depths of the ocean a visit to the Cine Dome is sure to be memorable. Call 407-514-2000 for the latest information on current films and their show times.

In addition to the films and scientific exhibits, the Science Center entertains its visitors with live shows at its Xperience Factory. These programs mix education and entertainment and are a way to learn more about science in an amusing way.

These are just some of the regular features of the Science Center, but it doesn't end there. During the year there are also a series of special exhibits as well as "Scienterffic Saturdays" where you can get an enjoyable, in-depth look at various scientific topics.

The science center is open Sunday - Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Thursday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. On Wednesdays the center is closed for exhibit updates and maintenance. The current adult price for a ticket is $17 and children from 3-11 are charged $12.00. The Orlando Science Center is located at 777 East Princeton Street Orlando, Florida 32803-1291

About the Author:

Mark Whichard writes frequently about Orlando Tourism. He is the proprietor of Orlando's Finest Vacation Home and if you are interested in great deals on Orlando vacation rentals and rental homes near Disney World, then visit his website: http://www.Orlandosfinest.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Orlando Science Center: Let Your Imagination Run Wild