Archives

Tiny Green Home

Tiny Green Home Tours
Level 1 (Loch Haven Park)

This diminutive abode offers a hands-on experience through interactive displays that educate visitors on energy and water conservation measures, sustainability rebates, vehicle electrification, renewables, composting, food gardens and other efficiency methods.

It includes a functioning roof-top solar array and a rain barrel to collect and conserve water, among other green features visitors can add to their own homes.

Built by OUC, the City of Orlando, and Orlando Science Center, the 200-square-foot home hopes to increase sustainability education and awareness in Central Florida.

Don’t miss the opportunity to learn this tiny home’s big message about sustainability.

Tours will be scheduled during Spring Break, March 12-21 from 10:30 am – 4:00 pm.

First come first serve sign-up (no advance reservations).

Check out the Calendar to see times!

Part of the American Cities Climate Challenge grant, the $100,000 project is funded equally by OUC and the City, along with a $15,000 grant from The Natural Resources Defense Council.

The Tiny Green Home is an educational resource showcasing the benefits of:

  1. Energy and water conservation
  2. Renewable energy
  3. Sustainability rebates
  4. Vehicle electrification
  5. Composting
  6. Growing your own food 
  7. Sustainability programs from OUC, the City, and the Science Center.

Thank You to our Partners! 

To learn more about programs and resources, click to visit our partners below!

City of Orlando Logo
OUC The Reliable One Logo

Generous Support Provided by:

Little Diversified Architecture

View – Smart Glass

Tip Top Roofing

esaSolar

Rheem Manufacturing Company

Ferran Services

Thomas Lumber Co.

NovaCharge

Ovation Construction

4Roots Foundation

Landreth Lighting

Karndean Design Flooring

Rachio

Play to Win with Powder Keg Gaming Competitions at Otronicon

Posted on by

Play, compete, and spectate in an awesome video game party!

Powder Keg Games hosts video game tournaments on consoles Nintendo, PlayStation, and Xbox. Titles include Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Street Fighter, Pokken Tournament DX, Dragon Ball FighterZ, and more!

 

Schedule

Friday, February 12, 2021

  • 11:00 a.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (F1 v 1, 16 cap, Playstation 4)
  • 1:00 p.m. - Dragon Ball FighterZ (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)
  • 3:00 p.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)

Saturday, February 13, 2021

  • 11:00 a.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)
  • 1:00 p.m. - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)
  • 3:00 p.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)

Sunday, February 14, 2021

  • 11:00 a.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)
  • 1:00 p.m. - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)
  • 3:00 p.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)

Monday, February 15, 2021

  • 11:00 a.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (F1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)
  • 1:00 p.m. - Pokken Tournament DX (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)
  • 3:00 p.m. - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1 v 1, 16 cap, Nintendo Switch)

Consent Form & Ticket Packages

All participants under (18) years of age on the first day of attending the Otronicon event must submit a consent form upon entry to the event, signed by a caregiver, in order to participate in the gaming competitions.

Submit Consent Form

 

Purchase a package that includes daily Otronicon admission and game competitions. Competitions have limited seating available and are $7 per participant, per game.

Please note that you MUST have a ticket to Otronicon to participate.

GENERAL TICKETS
MEMBER TICKETS

Otronicon Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

General Admission: Otronicon is free for OSC members, $21.00 for adults, $19.00 for seniors and students, and $15.00 for youth (ages 2-11).

For more information, please call 407.514.2000.

Private Experiences – Choose Your Own Adventure!

Orlando Science Center’s private experiences are more than tours… they’re fully immersive and hands-on adventures that allow you to shadow our incredible staff while you join us on a fun, educational journey to take a deeper dive into the inner workings of your Science Center!

These 90-minute private programs are offered for groups of 3–10 guests from the same party who would like to visit the museum before we open to the general public or as we are winding down at the end of the day.

Choose Your Own Private Adventure!

Did you know that our NatureWorks team arrives as early as 7:00 am to make sure our animals are cared for and healthy? Or that our fully functioning makerspace is used to create everything from a felt succulent garden to large interactive exhibit pieces? What else will you discover on your private adventure?

Image of two-toed sloth at Orlando Science Center.

NatureWorks

Become a Keeper for a Day!

Offered Saturdays & Sundays from 8:30 – 10:00 am
Weekday reservations available upon request.
Adventure is open to all ages but we suggest one adult per two youth.

Embark on a behind-the-scenes tour through this fan-favorite exhibit which emulates animal habitats found in nature. Throughout your guided experience, you will participate in animal touches and feedings while learning about animal husbandry and the care that goes into keeping our animals happy and healthy. Once you’re familiar with the lay of the land, it’s time to learn the ropes and become an animal keeper!

Did you know our animal ambassadors are big fans of food prep? Our animals’ diets are designed to fit each of their unique nutritional needs. Help us prepare the day’s meals and feed some of our four-legged friends!

Enrichment is also a crucial part of our animals’ health and wellbeing. Learn how keepers use enrichment to keep animals physically and mentally fit. This will be demonstrated while an animal ambassador paints a two-colored masterpiece for you to take home as a keepsake for your exciting day!

Meet an animal ambassador! Once you've finished your animal keeper training, there will be time for a special opportunity to interact with an animal ambassador* and pose for photo-ops. 

*Animal encounters are just as enriching for the animals as the humans who participate in them but, like humans, sometimes they want to stick to their own schedule. Animal well-being is our top priority, so if a particular animal does not want to participate in that day’s private experiences, our staff will select another exciting animal ambassador for you to meet!

Two cregivers and ayoung child work on a craft activity together in The Hive.

The Hive: A Makerspace 

Join the Maker Movement!

Offered Saturdays & Sundays from 9:00 – 10:30 am OR 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Weekday reservations available upon request.
Workshops are best suited for makers ages 8 and older.

Go forth and create! In this collaborative workspace, you can try new tools, build new skills, and create something one-of-a-kind to take home. Makers are MacGuyvers. Through the simple act of making something, you are strengthening essential skills in problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

These private experiences will challenge you to bring your ideas to life, and every choice you make will lead you to something new. Makerspaces cultivate community so enjoy sharing your creations with each other.


Being a maker is all about creativity and experimentation, so select one of the following projects for your group’s private experience to explore and make your own:

3D Design for Printing

Get an overview of 3D printing technology, the software involved, and some applications for 3D printers in the world. Learn basic 3D modeling skills as you work together to create a custom 3D-printed piece! Discover how this technology is revolutionizing so many industries by turning creative ideas into realities. Your only limits are your imagination!

Make Your Own Mouse Ears

Create your own ribbon-wrapped mouse ear headband by using 3D printed ear loops. Design an original garden headband with faux foliage or choose from a variety of materials to adorn your very own headwear that can’t be mass-produced. Each piece is unique to the creator. How’s that for custom fashion?

Sew a Felt Succulent Garden

You don’t need a green thumb to create a flourishing succulent garden made of felt! Make a small magnet or desk garden using laser cut felt shapes. Learn techniques to make five varieties of succulents and cacti using plush sewing techniques as well as hot glue rolled or wrapped succulents. Create a unique and beautiful small personal garden just for you or share it with someone special. Enjoy this gardening without breaking a sweat or getting your hands dirty.

Pricing

Private Experiences

Members / Non-Members:
$200 / $250 for up to 5 people


Additional Guests

Members / Non-Members:
$25 / $30 each for ages 12 and up
$20 / $25 each for ages 3–11

Private Experiences can host up to 10 guests and we suggest at least one adult per two youth. Programs are non-refundable.

Packages do not include General Admission to Orlando Science Center for non-members. Admission tickets can be added before or after your program for a reduced rate during your visit.

Know Before You Go

 

  • Guests age 3 years and older are required to wear a face covering at all times while visiting Orlando Science Center and while interacting with staff.
  • All guests will be temperature checked upon arrival.
  • Any equipment used will be thoroughly sanitized between programs.
  • Guests may bring a camera but for some behind-the-scenes programs there may be areas where you may be asked not to photograph or video record.
  • Program elements are subject to change without notice due to animal needs, weather, or staffing issues.Please review our Safety Guidelines for more information on planning a healthy visit.

Book Your Adventure!

To learn more about our adventure options, check availability, or make a reservation, please call 407.514.2290 or email groups@osc.org.

Lunch in Pompeii • A Free Virtual Speaker Series in Partnership with UCF College of Sciences

Posted on by

Grab a sandwich or some coffee, and let's have lunch. In Pompeii! 

Travel plans canceled this year? Go back in time with “Lunch in Pompeii”, a free speaker series held through Zoom. Hosted between 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., take a nice break from work or school, and tune in to learn about some of the artifacts that can be found in our latest exhibit Pompeii: The Immortal City.        

This collaboration with UCF and the Orlando Science Center started in 2019 with the launch of Knight at the Museum, a speaker series hosted at OSC. Lunch in Pompeii continues this partnership with a virtual speaker series to meet the needs of today's world and social distancing. These subject matter experts will help give us a uniquely in-depth look at various topics related to the exhibit. 

This speaker series is FREE, but you must RSVP to receive the Zoom link and login details.

*This series is recommended for students 13 years and older but younger students are welcome to join.   

How Metal Shaped Pompeii and the Roman Empire

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Metals were a fundamental part of Roman life, providing a wide range of weapons, coins, implements and jewelry. Given the scarcity of metals in Roman provinces, demand for these precious resources drove previously unprecedented scales of interaction and trade that affected linked Rome, including major trading centers like Pompeii, to the Roman provinces and beyond.

Dr. Joseph Lehner will examine how metal production and trade shaped the Roman world, and how the archaeological study of these materials give us extraordinary insight into not only the mechanics of the empire but also the daily lives of people who once lived there.

RSVP
Lunch in Pompeii with Joseph-W.-Lehner
Dr. Joseph W. Lehner Ph.D.

Dailies and Delicacies: Getting a Taste of Pompeii

Thursday, November 19, 2020

Dine like the ancient Pompeii citizens in a gustatio, a light lunch of starters! Our meals and the meals of those before us are very different. Here, you can attend a virtual tasting of daily fresh breads, drink a full-bodied raisin wine or posca, a cold, watered-down vinegar, and savor herbed olives in oil. Sounds delectamenti!

Dr. Lana Williams will give us a taste of why our modern system of tastes that seem so “naturally” preferable to us are very different from those of the past. The perfect meal of ancient Pompeii and the Roman World was one where all the tastes, and therefore all the virtues, would be simultaneously present.

RSVP
Lunch in Pompeii with lana Williams
Dr. Lana Williams, Ph.D.

Fleeing Pompeii: Bodies Frozen in Time

Thursday, December 10, 2020

When the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius hit Pompeii in 79AD, its ash formed a protective shield around the bodies of the citizens. This created a type of mummification. Pompeiians are now called “ash mummies” due to the intactness of bodies.

Dr. Sandra Wheeler dives into how and why these preserved bodies provide several different insights into the deaths, but also the lives of every day Pomepiians.

RSVP
Lunch in Pompeii with Sandra Wheeler
Dr. Sandra Wheeler Ph.D.

Learning From Lasers: Uncovering Pompeii With Chemical Laser Analysis

Thursday, January 14, 2021

Lasers and Pompeii? Ancient and modern worlds collide in this presentation by Dr. Matthieu Baudelet. As an associate professor of Chemistry at UCF, Baudelet specializes in laser-based spectroscopy for forensic analysis.

RSVP
Lunch in Pompeii with Matthieu Baudelet
Dr. Matthieu Baudelet Ph.D

Pompeii: The Immortal City is on display at Orlando Science Center from October 26, 2020 - January 24, 2021. Get your timed-entry tickets today!

Pompeii: the Immortal City Exhibit - Premiering October 26, 2020

DinoDigs

Exhibit Hall – Level 4

In DinoDigs, guests will encounter giant fossil replicas of ancient sea creatures and dinosaurs showcased in their prehistoric worlds. You’ll also find authentic fossils of ancient reptiles and mammals, some of which were found right here in Florida. 

Plus, become a paleontologist for the day as you uncover and examine fossils waiting to be unearthed in the Jurassic Ridge dig pits!

Check out the Building Guide to see what’s happening during your visit. 

Download Building Guide

The Dig Pits are sanitized with MaxxClean which is a non-toxic cleaner with no VOC's or odor and is safe for people and pets. 

How does it work? All living organsims need a pH neutral environment between 4.8 and 9.2 to live. MaxxClean raises the pH level of the surface to over 11 which creates an environment that viruses, mold, and microogransims cannot live on.

The Hive: A Makerspace

Makerspace - Level 3

Come see what all the buzz is about! In The Hive, the possibilities are as vast as your imagination. Learn how to sew a button, fold an origami crane, design a figurine using 3D modeling software then bring it to life with a 3D printer, or solder a circuit board – there’s always something new to try! 

Many of the best designs come from collaboration. The Hive is a space that cultivates community and emphasizes the learning opportunities in every failure and success. Being a maker is all about creativity and experimentation. 

Check out Open Make Experiences!

Comic Books and Stop-Motion Animation: Learn the craft of creating a comic book layout or the ins and outs of stop-motion special effects as you make your own superhero story!

Go forth and create!

The Hive is designed specifically for makers ages 8 and up. Makers 8-12 must be accompanied by an adult. Maker activities for ages 7 and under are available in the KidsTown Studio.

Check out the Building Guide to see what’s happening during your visit.

Download Building Guide

Weekend Workshops

Saturdays & Sundays at 1:00 & 3:00 p.m.

Interested in participating in one of our weekend workshops? Weekend Workshops are a safer, private way to experience The Hive. 

These workshops are for ages 8 and up and can accommodate a maximum of four groups with up to 5 guests per group. One $30 admission ($25 for members) to these workshops includes seats for five participants and materials and instructions for two projects with the option to add an additional project for just $10! Select a time during checkout to add a Hive Weekend Workshop to your admission ticket!

REGISTER TODAY

April Workshop:

Cardboard Superhero Automata

Construct your own moving superhero sculpture using simple machines in our cardboard automata workshop. 

Hive Activities: Comic Books and Stop-Motion Animation crafts

Hive at Home Kit:

Can't attend a Weekend Workshop? Pick up a take-home kit to do at your own pace!

One $10 Hive at Home kit contains all the materials and instructions to do one workshop project that you and your family can enjoy together.

Stop by The Hive on Level 3 to purchase today! Limited quantity, available while supplies last!

NatureWorks

Exhibit Hall – Level 1

In NatureWorks, you’ll learn about the amazing animals and plants that inhabit coral reefs, mangrove forests, cypress swamps and other Florida environments, along with other areas around the world. 

Discover what lies deep within the Floridan Aquifer, learn how to identify some of Florida’s native and invasive species, and observe animals in their unique habitats to understand their amazing adaptations!

Within the exhibit hall, there are frequent opportunities to hear from a NatureWorks animal keeper and encounter some of our Animal Ambassadors up close at their scheduled encounters!

Check out the Building Guide to see what’s happening during your visit.

Download Building Guide

Conservation Partners 

Disney Conservation Fund

The Nature Conservancy 

Orlando Science Center strives to inspire all of its visitors to care for and protect wildlife both near and far. It is our hope that your visit to the Science Center will encourage you to learn more about our animals and the actions you can take to protect their wild counterparts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who takes care of the animals at the Science Center?

Our experienced keepers ensure the highest quality of animal care and welfare. The keepers at Orlando Science Center all hold specialized degrees in a variety of life science disciplines including Biology, Environmental Science, and Zoo Animal Technology.

Our animal staff has years of experience caring for a variety of animals and are well versed in the animal care standards established by the United States Department of Agriculture and Fish and Wildlife. The Science Center also works with several licensed exotic animal veterinarians to provide top-quality nutrition and veterinary care to all of our animals.

Where does the Science Center get its animals?

The Orlando Science Center has a Responsible Population Management policy that dictates all animal acquisitions and transfers. Our policy prioritizes the long-term sustainability of living animal populations and the health and welfare of our animals.

Many of our animals were donated to us by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Fish and Wildlife removes invasive species from the environment and places them in zoos and nature centers. We also house animals that Fish and Wildlife confiscated from people who possessed them illegally.

Several of our animals come from FWC’s Pet Amnesty program which rehomes animals that Florida residents can no longer care for. We are proud to provide a safe and enriching home for these animals.

What if I have a question about the animals at the Science Center?

Next time you’re in the NatureWorks exhibit, come say hi to one of our staff members or volunteers. They love talking about animals! You can also contact us at nature@osc.org for any inquiries regarding our animal collection

Want to become a keeper for the day?

Participate in diet prep, target training, enjoy meet-and-greets, and more when you book a private experience!

Theaters

If you need a break from the exhibit floor, take a seat in one of our state-of-the-art theaters.

The domed giant-screen Dr. Phillips CineDome and high-definition Digital Adventure Theater both offer educational films daily, and all films are included with general admission. Content changes regularly, so be sure to check the theater schedule before you arrive to find out what’s playing.

Reserve a theater for your private function!

Both theaters are available for private rentals for film screenings, award presentations, team meetings, talent shows, and so much more.

Learn more about our private venue rentals.

A giant-screen movie showing an image of people on a city street.

Dr. Phillips CineDome

Giant-Screen Theater – Level 1*

Choose a seat and be instantly transported to exotic and interplanetary lands. Images of clarity and extraordinary depth bring the audience on an expedition to the center of the action in this immersive cinematic experience.

A projector's fish-eye lens projects onto an 8,000 square-foot screen, creating a 180 degree image that surrounds the audience and extends beyond their peripheral vision. Films cover nature, geography, history and more, and new titles are introduced throughout the year. *Wheelchair access located via Level 3.

Guests listening to presenter on stage of Digital Adventure Theater.

Digital Adventure Theater

Immersive Digital Films – Level 2

Dive into the action inside the stadium-seated Digital Adventure Theater. Films are presented in 2D with state-of-the-art 4K digital projection and 7.1 surround sound, offering a fully immersive experience.

The Digital Adventure Theater is also home to Science Live! Shows, which are designed to delight and entertain while also aligning with Sunshine State educational standards. The electrifying “High Voltage” show, explosive “Kaboom!” show, heroic “Super Science” show and more will show you the science in fact and fiction.

Now Showing – General Audience

Content changes seasonally. Check the theater schedule prior to your visit to find out what special experiences will be offered.

VIEW CURRENT SCHEDULE

Turtle Odyssey

Dr. Phillips CineDome

Sea turtles are some of Earth's most ancient and majestic creatures. For over 100 million years, they have traversed the seas, enduring mass extinctions and playing critical roles in maintaining food webs. But now they face a new threat – humans. It's time we learned more about these remarkable reptiles.

 Jane Goodall's Wild Chimpanzees 

Dr. Phillips CineDome

 Jane Goodall’s Wild Chimpanzees is a giant screen journey into the hearts and minds of wild chimpanzees with the world’s most famous field researcher. The film chronicles Goodall’s 40-plus years of legendary work among the chimps at Gombe Park on Lake Tanganyka in Africa.

Sea Lions – Life by a Whisker 2D

Digital Adventure Theater

A heart-warming journey of a sea lion pup, and the man that has dedicated his life trying to save her species. Embark on an epic quest through the uninhabited wilderness of the Great Australian Bight, to the lush kelp forests off the Californian coast.

Secrets of the Universe

Digital Adventure Theater

We are at the beginning of a period of unprecedented technological advancement, catalyzing a new age of scientific discovery. Travel with us on this immersive giant screen film, as we explore the most exciting machines ever conceived by man, including the Large Hadron Collider and James Webb Space Telescope. See how these new experiments allow us to look deeper into our origins, and unveil the mysteries of dark energy, dark matter and extra dimensions.

 

Kinetic Zone

Exhibit Hall – Level 2

Explore the fundamentals of forces, learn the principles of physics and see engineering in a new light in Kinetic Zone!

This exhibit offers an electrifying array of interactive guest experiences, ranging from launching air rockets, to experimenting with circuits, to lifting yourself off the ground with different pulley systems. 

Get hands-on with STEM experiences like the Balance Challenge, where you can test your invention on an 18-foot zip line, and the Coaster Challenge, where you’ll use pipes to build a model of whatever radical roller coaster you can dream up!

Check out the Building Guide to see what’s happening during your visit. 

Download Building Guide

Become A Volunteer

Adult volunteer during the Otronicon event interacting with guests.

Adult Volunteers

Donate your time to bring the Science Center to life in a way that complements your expertise and interests.

LEARN MORE

Customer service employee instructing an intern at the front desk.

Internships

Explore an exciting real-world career in a nonprofit setting, working both independently and with the team. College credit is available.

LEARN MORE

Youth volunteer helping summer camp students measure ingredients for an experiment.

Catalyst Youth Volunteers

Gain valuable skills and make new friends while giving back to the community. Opportunities are available year-round.

LEARN MORE