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Attraction · North Carolina

Catawba Science Center - Hickory

243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601· $· 10am–5pm (Tue–Sat)

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Catawba Science Center - Hickory — photo 2

Steve’s take

A small but genuinely good science center right off I-40 in Hickory. The aquarium section has local freshwater species, the planetarium is great for younger kids, and the hands-on exhibits are designed for the under-twelve crowd. It's the perfect 'we need to stop for an hour and do something' place between Asheville and Charlotte. Cheap, quick, and the kids think you planned an activity instead of just desperately needing them out of the car.

🌤️ Weather right now

Hickory, NC

Updated just now

Overnight

60°F

Partly Cloudy

Thursday91°F
Thursday Night66°F
Friday92°F

Destination Details

  • museum
  • aquarium
  • planetarium
  • interactive exhibits
  • restrooms
  • parking

Common questions about Catawba Science Center - Hickory

  • Where is Catawba Science Center - Hickory?

    Catawba Science Center - Hickory is at 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601, North Carolina. It sits along I-40, which makes it a natural stop on a Florida-bound family road trip.

  • What are the hours at Catawba Science Center - Hickory?

    Typical hours: 10am–5pm (Tue–Sat). Hours can shift seasonally and on holidays — always confirm on the official site before you plan your visit.

  • What's Catawba Science Center - Hickory like to visit on a family road trip?

    A small but genuinely good science center right off I-40 in Hickory. The aquarium section has local freshwater species, the planetarium is great for younger kids, and the hands-on exhibits are designed for the under-twelve crowd. It's the perfect 'we need to stop for an hour and do something' place between Asheville and Charlotte. Cheap, quick, and the kids think you planned an activity instead of just desperately needing them out of the car.

  • Is Catawba Science Center - Hickory family-friendly?

    Yes — Catawba Science Center - Hickory earns a 5/5 family-friendly rating in our database.

  • How long should families plan to stay at Catawba Science Center - Hickory?

    Most families spend an hour or two at Catawba Science Center - Hickory, depending on kid stamina and weather.